Mold—it’s every homeowner’s nightmare, and unfortunately, it is a common problem. Once discovered, the first step to removing it is choosing a mold remediation company. You’ll need to consider a variety of factors such as licensing, insurance, certifications, experience, and the techniques they will use for successful mold remediation. As you evaluate your shortlisted companies, aim to learn more about their unique protocols. This will help you decide which company will not only remove mold but also put in place measures to ensure it stays away.
Mold Removal Versus Mold Remediation, What’s the Difference?
Before you assign the job, it will help you to understand why mold removal is different from mold remediation. Mold removal takes care of an outbreak and is only one among several steps in the mold elimination process. Mold remediation is a comprehensive method that goes beyond simply removing mold. It involves identifying the source of the mold outbreak and taking preventative measures to deter recurrence. Therefore, mold remediation is a long-term solution, with removal being a preliminary step.
When to Hire a Professional Mold Remediation Company?
If you encounter a small patch of mold, such as in your shower stall or a corner of your bathroom, you could try to remove it with a natural treatment such as vinegar, baking soda, citruses, or hydrogen peroxide to scrub it away. Store-bought mold removal products may also enable a DIY effort if you are dealing with a minor mold issue in a small space.
On the other hand, if you have a mold outbreak spanning more than 10 sq ft, you must not attempt to handle it on your own. Without the proper safety equipment, protective gear, and expertise, you could put yourself, your family, and your home at risk. What’s more, the risk isn’t worth taking because it may only provide a temporary solution or worse, could intensify the mold problem in your home. As a bio-contaminant, mold must be removed in a prompt, professional manner, and then disposed of safely. By hiring a professional mold remediation company, you can safeguard the health of your family and the integrity of your home.
If your home is exposed to excessive moisture, water damage or leaks, it may be at risk of a mold outbreak. It’s easy to assume that seasonal allergies, dust, the weather and other factors are causing respiratory disorders, itchy or burning eyes, skin issues, and other health problems for people in your home; but often, the actual culprit is mold.
Keep in mind that mold is not always visible. While it may appear in the form of discolouration on surfaces, it can also remain hidden and go undetected. The inside of walls, ducts, and neglected spaces in your home may see mold growth. Another prime breeding ground for mold is attics because most homeowners do not inspect this part of their home often. It is best to have an expert assessment performed for attic mold removal.
Learn more about causes and removal of mold in the attic
What to Look for When Selecting a Mold Remediation Expert
Choosing the right mold remediation company is imperative to protecting your health and your home. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Inspection and Assessment
If you suspect an infestation, a certified inspector can confirm the presence of mold by visual inspection or by testing the quality of air in your home. Some decontamination experts certified by the Professional Mold Inspection Institute will be able to perform the inspection and identify the source of the mold (water intrusion, source of humidity, etc.), the location and the extent of the damage. Following the inspection, they will be able to submit an evaluation and a detailed decontamination plan.
Method Used
Ask questions about their technique for mold remediation. There are different methods used by companies, but not all of them are created equal. The removal and cleaning process as well as long-term results will vary from one method to another. Make sure to ask questions about the method used, the steps involved, the duration of the remediation, and its impact on your home, during and after treatment.
Remediation Process
Asking questions about the steps involved in a company’s mold remediation process can reveal a lot. If a company skips any of the following steps or performs them to a lesser standard, avoid hiring them.
- Containment & Protection:
A trustworthy company will be able to clearly outline the containment measures taken to ensure overall safety. Using plastic sheeting and negative air machines will prevent mold spores from moving from one area of your home to another. In addition, each employee should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). - Removal and Disposal of Contaminated Content:
Depending on how widespread the mold outbreak is, materials such as drywall or carpeting may be compromised by mold. Ask about their process of cleaning, sanitizing, demolishing, and discarding of mold followed by drying and ventilating the space. Due to the invasive nature of mold, some demolition may be required to fully restore the safety and integrity of your home. - Testing and Recommendations:
Once the remediation is complete, a final air quality test should confirm the success of the decontamination process. Your decontamination expert should be able to take a sample and have it analyzed by a recognized laboratory. Depending on the source of the mold, they should also be able to make preventive recommendations to ensure that the problem does not return.
Mold Remediation Certifications and Experience
Proven mold experts will have qualifications and credentials such as CRMI (Certified Residential Mold Inspector), CMR (Certified Mold Remediator), CCMI (Certified Commercial Mold Inspector), and NAMRI (National Association of Mold Remediators and Inspectors). Years of work experience is also indicative of expertise in the field. You can request to see proof of experience in the form of photographs (‘Before’ and ‘After’) or evidence of successful remediation via client testimonials.
Insurance and Warranty
An uninsured and unlicensed company may do the job for less, but you will be putting your family and home at risk of shoddy, incomplete work, and possible recurrence of the mold problem in your home. Without a warranty system in place, you also run the risk of them not backing up their quality assurance claims. A first-rate company will have the necessary licensing, a general liability policy, workers’ compensation insurance, and an industry-standard warranty built into the price.
References and Reviews
A company’s reputation is largely based on reviews via word of mouth, social media, or review sites on the internet. An established company’s website will also include testimonials and references to reflect its success.
Summary
Discovering mold in your home can be alarming. However, finding a company that cares about your family’s safety and has the qualifications to show for it can make the situation a lot less scary. A trusted company will be committed to protecting you, your family, and your home from the ugly problem of mold. You should never have to settle for less, so don’t be afraid to have forthright discussions about a company’s mold remediation process, credentials, policies, and track record of satisfied clients.
Steri Mobile offers mold remediation services for attics, basements, and any other area of the home. Using a proven mold remediation process, our experts will remove all traces of mold in the contaminated area. Contact us for more information about our services or to get a free estimate.