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Mold Removal
Overview
Molds are ubiquitous in nature, and mold spores are a common component of any property. When mold spores are present in large quantities, they can present a health hazard to humans, causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
Water damage is the most common factor of mold growth. If the water is left unattended for any period of time, it may lead to the growth of mold spores which will require removal. It is important to have the water damage restoration promptly and professionally as quickly as possible.
While property owners tend to be alarmed if they detect mold on their property, it does not always mean a substantial mold removal cost. Any sign of mold does require your immediate attention however as mold can spread very quickly and cause real damage to your property. It can also be responsible for a range of health issues. Early detection is the key to saving money and protecting the health of the occupants of your property.
Average Cost
Average Costs Of Mold Removal
The national average of mold removal is $500 – $30,000 or more. So choosing the right professional the first time is of the essence.
The cost of mold removal varies widely, depending on numerous factors. Factors that influence the cost of mold removal include:
- The size of the affected area
- Mold in your HVAC system
- Does the mold needs to be cleaned or removed (carpets, drywall, etc.)
- Does the mold develop after a flood with water that may have been contaminated.
- Where are you located
- Time that it takes to complete the project.
- How many technicians are working on your project.
- Was it an after hours emergency
- With many more aspects that may add to the cost
Remember, the company quoting a low rate may not necessarily be the right company for you. Some companies may offer low hourly rates, but then charge additional “fees” to complete the job.
You may also need to consider that most companies charge a higher rate for overtime, weekends, holidays and emergency calls.
The best rule of hand is to get an itemized estimate so you know exactly what is expected from the local company.
Basic Information
Mold Basics
What is Mold?
Mold is living organism, but it is neither a plant nor an animal. Mold is a fungus. It is part of a group of living organisms that are very common and serve an important role in the environment.
Mold can grow on the walls, floors and ceilings of your home as well as on your personal possessions. People often refer to some household molds as mildew, although the term also can apply to molds found outdoors.
How does mold enter a home?
Mold spreads by creating reproductive spores and sending them into the environment. Mold spores are too small to detect with the naked eye. They are everywhere around us and you cannot avoid being exposed to them. Mold spores travel in the air and attach to people’s skin, clothing. Other ways spores can enter your home invisibly are: through open doors and windows, through your home’s HVAC system.
How does mold grow?
Mold seeks, warmth, and moisture and these conditions are necessary for it to grow. Mold is most likely to grow in the bathroom, basement or kitchen, but it can grow in other rooms if conditions are favorable. Mold spores can thrive and reproduce in wet or damp parts of your home: areas that have had flooding or where leakage has occurred, in roofs, pipes, walls, or areas around house plants, especially ones that sometimes are over-watered. Mold spores can form in as little as 48 hours.
Mold Removal Process
Evaluation
A mold removal contractor will come to your property and assess the situation. =Once done the contractor will present you with a mold removal plan.
Containing The Mold
The source of the moisture is addressed and cut-off. The affected area is closed off to avoid contaminating the rest of your home.
Removing The Mold
Since mold is a living organism and deeply ingrains itself into materials to survive, it is best to dispose of all building materials and personal belongings that contain any mold spores.
Dry Out The Mold
It is imperative that all affected areas be thoroughly dry.
Repair
The reconstruction process will begin after all the affected mold is removed and/or cleaned.
Post – Testing
Following removal, mold test should be conducted to ensure the cleanup has been successful.
Questions To Ask A Mold Removal Company
(All the answers should be a detailed “Yes” – if there is a “No” look for another company)
- Will they give you a written contract?
- Are they prepared to provide you with a removal plan?
- Will they provide you with a post-removal report?
- Does your company carry insurance?
- Are they certified?
- Do they set up containment to prevent cross contamination?
- Do they use negative air machines and air scrubbers to clean the air?
- Can they provide you with referrals and their contact details?
- Do they use DOP tested equipment, which tests the integrity of the HEPA filters used?
Symptoms And Allergic Reactions To Mold Infestations:
- Itchy eyes
- Chronic cough
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Watery Eyes
- Difficulty breathing
- Rashes
- Itching
- Drowsiness
- Sinus issues
- Sneezing
- Coughing
Mold Inspectors
If you find mold growing, you may want to first hire a mold investigator to discover the root and extent of the problem. They will be able to direct you to a reliable mold removal company. Reputable mold removal companies work with local mold inspectors.
When looking for a mold inspection company look for their credentials as an inspector. The mold industry is largely unregulated, but there are guidelines to help you know when you’re hiring a mold inspector:
Look For:
- Mold investigator credentials
- Industry certifications
- Work independently of a mold removal company
- Provides a customized report that includes lab results of surface samples taken.
- They shouldn’t hype one species of mold as more dangerous than another.
- They should tell you whether a mold problem has a DIY solution.
- Inspection should take 2-5 hours.
- Takes air samples and may open up walls to find mold.
Tips & Advice
- Ask For The License – Ask for all local and state business licenses.
- Proof Of Insurance– For your own protection, check proof of both workman’s compensation and liability Insurance.
- Business Stability– Find out how long the company has been in business.
- Check Online Reviews – You’re probably not the first person in town looking for their services. Rely on the internet to get reviews written by people in your community.
- References – Expect any top-notch company to be able to provide you with references upon request. Once you have these names, contact the clients to get information about the quality service. When you call, ask questions about the work, timeliness, cost and whether the clients would use the company again for future work.
- 24-hour Emergency Service – Make sure your local company offers emergency 24 hour service. If something goes wrong, it’s good to know that you will not have to wait days for them to come out and fix it.
- Over The Phone Pricing – Honest estimates simply cannot be given over the phone – especially if you aren’t talking with an actual technician when you call.
- Free Estimates – Most companies offer free estimates. This is important because they can provide you with the costs upfront, so that you are not shocked with a bill after the services are completed.
- Safety Record – Safety can be a significant factor, so ask the company about their safety records to ensure that any service professional you hire has a satisfactory safety record. You want a company that doesn’t have a high incidence of on-the-job mishaps or injuries.
- Building Codes- In certain areas you’ll need to make sure that the local company meets all building code requirements.
- Satisfaction Guarantee – Choosing a company that offers a satisfaction guarantee will ensure that they will get the job done right the first time and will save you money and frustration in the long run.
- Cleanup – The mess left behind after a project can be major. Ask what cleanup work the company includes with it’s services.
