Mold FAQs
What is mold remediation?
Mold remediation is the process of identifying and removing mold in a home or business. In addition to mold removal, mold remediation can include steps to prevent future mold growth, such as addressing the source of the moisture problem and thoroughly drying and cleaning the affected area.
When is mold remediation required?
If you notice any mold growth in your home or business, you should consider hiring a professional mold remediation service. Even seemingly small areas of mold growth can be indicative of much larger underlying problems. Professionals know where to look and what to look for in order to accurately address mold issues.
What is involved with mold remediation?
Effective mold remediation involves several different steps to ensure the mold is safely removed and won’t come back. At BELFOR, our mold remediation process includes the following phases:
1. Fix any moisture problems
2. Isolate areas of mold growth/contamination
3. Physical removal of mold and materials affected by mold
4. Clean away mold
5. Dry area thoroughly
More on our mold remediation process can be found here.
How much does mold remediation cost?
It is difficult to determine the average cost of mold remediation because every mold damage situation is different. Some properties have extensive mold growth throughout, including behind walls, under floorboards, and in the ceiling. Others have relatively minimal damage from a smaller infestation. As such, the price of mold remediation depends on the severity of the problem. Several other factors unique to each situation–such as size or type of building and specific areas or items impacted–can also play a role in the cost of mold remediation.
How long does mold remediation take?
Similar to price, the amount of time it takes to complete effective mold remediation also depends on the severity of the problem and the unique factors at play. Some factors that impact how long mold remediation jobs take include: where the mold is located, the accessibility of the area, whether additional systems are affected (like HVAC), and whether additional rounds of sampling or testing need to occur.
The best way to determine both the price and length of time for the job is to contact us to schedule an inspection of your property.
What to do after mold remediation?
Once mold remediation has been completed, you should not have to do anything besides return to your property. Professional mold remediation will ensure your property is free of mold and any moisture issues that originally caused the mold problem have been addressed.
What does mold remediation mean?
Mold remediation refers to the process of identifying and removing mold damage from a property and eliminating the infestation. It can also include steps to address the source of the mold growth, such as a hidden leak or excessive moisture buildup.
Is mold remediation dangerous?
Proper mold remediation itself is not dangerous. However, effectively cleaning mold requires specialized equipment and expert knowledge of containment, air sampling, moisture and mold properties, and more. Attempting to clean mold without the proper equipment or training can exacerbate the problem and result in worse or recurring mold growth and potential health hazards. Therefore, the safest way to take care of mold damage situations is to have them handled by qualified mold remediation professionals.
How to prepare for mold remediation?
To prepare for professional mold remediation, clear any areas where the mold removal professional will need to access. If any items in the area have been affected by the mold growth, you should leave those items in the area unless your mold remediation professional has advised you otherwise. Impacted items will need to be cleaned or possibly thrown out, depending on the severity and the material of the item, but moving them or attempting to clean them yourself could potentially cause the mold to spread.
Can I be home for mold remediation?
No, it is not recommended for you to be home during the mold remediation process. A containment area will need to be set up to prevent cross-contamination, which will limit your access and ability to move about the space freely. Additionally, mold remediation involves the use of certain substances like an antimicrobial or biocide spray to clean affected areas. These substances can be irritants to humans without the proper equipment. It is recommended that you don’t enter an area where mold remediation is occurring until it has been thoroughly cleaned.
Can mold come back after remediation?
If the source of the mold, such as a water leak or other moisture issue, has not been addressed, the mold can return after remediation. However, at BELFOR, we take the steps not only to remove existing mold but also to fix any moisture problems to ensure mold does not return after mold remediation.
Is mold remediation covered by insurance?
Mold remediation can be covered by homeowners insurance. However, not all insurance policies cover it, and those that do may be limited by the source and cause of the mold issue. At BELFOR, we’ll work with you and your insurance company to understand your coverage and ensure any claims run as smoothly as possible.