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| | | Molds are simple organisms (fungi) that grow on almost any organic substance as long as there's oxygen and moisture. Small amounts of indoor mold are normal, but large quantities can cause odors, health problems and, in some cases, structural damage to wood. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home". | | |
| Typical costs: | - If the mold is confined to a surface area of no more than 10 square feet (about 3-feet-by-3-feet), the EPA suggests you can remove it yourself by scrubbing hard surfaces with detergent and water, then drying.
- Removing mold from an average house crawlspace ranges from $500 -$4,000, according to Charter Oak Environmental of Connecticut. Overall, a typical mold remediation project to remove mold from the ducts, crawl spaces, walls and attic of a house runs around $2,000 -$6,000. And if the mold has caused widespread structural damage, repair costs can increase the total to as much as $10,000 -$30,000 or more.
What should be included: | - Also called mildew, mold can grow on wood, paper, carpet and food. Although some forms of mold are extremely dangerous or even toxic, most molds are relatively harmless. To reproduce, molds release tiny spores which are often (but not always) airborne. It's not possible to eliminate all mold and mold spores -- the key to controlling mold growth inside your home is controlling moisture. Fix any leaky plumbing or other sources of water, and dry any water-damaged items or areas with 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. North Carolina State University's Cooperative Extension Program provides a mildew prevention guide.
- Even when mold is dead, the remains can still cause health problems. Remediation includes killing the mold and removing it. Specialized professional equipment includes air scrubbers, HEPA-filtered air movers, industrial-strength biocides and moisture meters. When mold is disturbed, it sends out reproductive spores -- so it's essential to prevent the spread of mold during the cleanup process. Workers wear respirators, gloves and special protective clothing. The work area should be surrounded by plastic sheeting, and all air vents, doors or other openings covered. A large project or a toxic mold may require a decontamination chamber or airlock for entering or exiting the work area. North Carolina State University provides mold remediation guidelines.
Additional costs: | - Usually mold testing or inspection should be done before the remediation work to determine the extent of the problem, and afterward to be sure the process was successful. Although some remediation companies offer free inspections, many industry experts recommend having the inspections done by a different firm.
- The presence of mold means there's a water problem that must be fixed or the mold will return. This could require new plumbing; improving your home's ventilation or drainage; moving air conditioning units out of the attic; adding a vapor barrier; or repairing or replacing the roof. Costs will depend on the type and extent of the problem.
- If there is toxic mold or the remediation area is large, it may be necessary to pay for other housing until the work is done.
Discounts: | - The cost of mold remediation might be tax deductible; check with your tax professional or the IRS.
Shopping for mold remediation: | - Mold spreads easily when disturbed, and an untrained mold remediation contractor can do more harm than good. Check with your state licensing board to be sure a contractor is licensed specifically for mold remediation. Request and check references; ask about training, certification and experience; know exactly who in the company will perform any needed work; and be sure the company has general liability insurance. Check for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau. Get detailed estimates followed by a detailed contract. The International Union of Operating Engineers explains how to select a remediation contractor.
- There are a number of organizations offering mold "certification" -- some require only a fee or an online course to qualify as a certified expert. Check to be sure that your contractor is certified by a group requiring training, experience and testing. Referrals are available from the Restoration Industry Association, the American Indoor Air Quality Council and the American Industrial Hygiene Association.
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Article updated June 2008 |
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