Tips for Hiring a Mold Removal Service

Moisture in a home can be a problem since it creates an uncomfortable atmosphere, but it can also lead to damaging mold growing in the home as well. There are many reasons why mold should never be left unchecked. When you breathe it in, it can cause infections, allergic reactions, asthma, and other health issues. It can also lead to problems for those who have severe allergies and weakened immune responses. 

Mold is not something to be ignored since it won't simply go away; it will just become worse over time and become even harder to remove from walls and floors of the home. Also bear in mind that certain types of mold are more dangerous than others. In extreme cases, you may actually need to replace some structural elements of your house. There have even been cases when homes have been declared unsafe for habitation and families have had to move out permanently.

Hiring mold removal contractors as early as possible will prevent the issue from escalating to such levels. However, it’s just as important that you hire the right professional. Having said that, there are several details to consider before settling on a contractor.

Who Do You Hire To Check for Mold?

If you suspect that there is a presence of mold in your house, it can be a good idea to hire a mold inspector. You can also go for a DIY mold test kit that will help you detect a buildup on your own. But if you prefer a professional verdict, then a mold inspection company is your best bet.

If you already see the spores, however, it’s best to skip the inspection process and move on directly to hiring contractors for mold removal. There’s obviously no point in paying a mold inspector to tell you something that you’re already aware of.

Mold inspection companies are best equipped to detect the presence of spores.

Hiring a Mold Remediation Contractor 

Unless it’s at an early stage, it’s best not to handle a mold issue yourself — especially advanced cases of black mold. This can actually make it worse if you disturb the mold spores since they can spread even more and be inhaled and cause problems. And if the spores are quite large, you will need to contact a mold remediation contractor at once. In the meantime, make sure not to allow anyone into the affected area, especially pets, children, and the elderly. 

Check for Experience and Credentials

Bear in mind that your home is by no means a training facility for rookies. For mold removal jobs, it’s absolutely necessary to hire a contractor that has all the necessary skills and experience. Giving a company that’s new to the business a chance might seem like a nice thing to do, but it doesn’t guarantee good results. If anything, you can always get the help of beginners for a very minor infestation — if you don’t feel comfortable handling the issue on your own, for instance. In the case of larger buildups, however, hiring an experienced mold removal contractor is the safest option.

An experienced mold removal contractor will have all the skills needed to get the job done.

Other than experience, it’s also important that the experts you hire are actually licensed contractors. Mold remediation specialists will normally mention any credentials on their website. Companies certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC), for instance, are always a safe bet. 

Integrity Is Key

Much like hiring any other contractor, you will want to select a company that provides its services with honesty and integrity. Working with someone who is questionable and not as forthcoming as they should be is a waste of time and money. Make sure that the mold abatement contractor you hire is sincere and straightforward. Avoid going for those who offer suspiciously low prices but will probably gloss over the details. 

Value Communication 

Don’t hesitate to ask questions. If the contractor you’re considering doesn’t answer your questions properly, feel free to continue your search. A decent mold removal contractor should have no problem explaining their process, including what products they use, how they remove the spores, and how they handle the contaminated materials. You don’t want to hire anyone who withholds information about their methods. They could very well be concealing improper practices that will do more harm than good. 

Look into Customer Testimonials

One great indicator of a company’s quality of service is word of mouth. Satisfied clients will naturally leave good reviews of a mold remediation contractor they hired. Consider taking a look at a contractor’s website or social media pages for reviews and testimonials. Family, friends, and colleagues who have dealt with similar issues are also great sources for recommendations. 

Online reviews are a great way to determine whether a mold removal company is worth hiring or not.

Ask About Warranties

Choosing a mold spore remediation contractor who hasn’t been in the business for more than a year or two can be risky — with any sort of warranty they may be offering. Reports have shown that 75% of contracting companies fail in the first year. As such, a warranty offered by a rookie contractor may not be as reliable as that of a company with over five years of quality service under its belt.

You may also want to be wary of contractors who claim to eliminate 100 percent of mold from your living spaces. This is clearly an overstatement on their part because removing all the spores is physically impossible. Bear in mind that the purpose of mold abatement is to reduce the spore count to a minimum level and to eradicate the cause of growth. 

Consider the Costs

Although it may be tempting to go for the mold removal contractor with the lower prices, it’s probably not the best choice. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for. You may also want to beware of contractors who trick you with low prices at first but end up upselling you afterward. Having said that, always make sure to ask for clear quotes straight away. The cost of remediating spores normally depends on the location of the buildup, the extent of the growth, and the materials involved. A simple bathroom mold removal job, for instance, may average around $500. 

Insurance Coverage Is a Must

As with any other contractor, it goes without saying that proper insurance coverage is key. Mold abatement specialists should be insured for both safety purposes as well as for liability in the event of an accident. If you happen to be hiring any subcontractors for a mold removal job, they also need to have insurance coverage in addition to other credentials. 

How to Prevent Mold from Appearing in the First Place

Eliminating mold spores from your home can be quite the handful, and an expensive one if the growth is extensive. The best way to fix a mold issue is by not letting it happen in the first place. Prevention is always better than the cure, after all. Luckily, preventing mold is easier than one might think. 

Dehumidifiers are excellent at preventing buildups of mold in your home.

• Repair any leaks in your home as quickly as possible. This includes anything from a leak in the roof to a loose or rusty water pipe. Fixing the leaks promptly and keeping moisture at bay helps in preventing a buildup of mold.
• Make sure to wipe up any spills — or flooding — on the spot. Whether it’s a flooded basement or condensation from an AC unit dripping onto the floor, drying everything out within the first couple of days will prevent mold growth. Needless to say, a moldy smell in your basement is the last thing you need. 
• Maintain moderate levels of humidity at all times. Excessive humidity in your home can provide the ideal conditions for mold to spread. Consider using a dehumidifier in your basement and running the air conditioner during the summer. Installing vent fans in the kitchen or the bathroom will also allow you to control humidity and moisture levels.