Mold removal works only when the moisture behind it is fixed too. If the growth covers more than a small patch, or it came from a leak or flood, a remediation company can contain it, remove it safely and dry the area so it doesn’t come back. Call (number coming soon) to talk to a local company.
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What a remediation job usually includes
- Find the water source. A roof or plumbing leak, condensation, poor venting or water coming up under a raised floor.
- Contain the area. Plastic sheeting and air filtration keep spores from spreading to clean rooms.
- Remove what can’t be cleaned. Porous materials with heavy growth, like drywall, insulation and carpet, are usually cut out and bagged.
- Clean what can be saved. Hard surfaces such as wood framing, tile and metal are cleaned and dried.
- Dry everything. Fans and dehumidifiers bring the area back to normal moisture levels.
- Repair. Replacing drywall and flooring may be part of the same job or a separate contractor.
Common places mold shows up in San Pedro homes
- Bathrooms without an exhaust fan, or with one that doesn’t vent outside
- Closets and bedrooms on the ocean-facing side of the house
- Crawl spaces under raised wood floors
- Window frames where condensation collects on cool mornings
- Garages and laundry rooms where the dryer isn’t vented outside
- Behind and under kitchen sinks and dishwashers
The standard to ask about
The industry standard for mold remediation is IICRC S520, which covers containment, safety and documentation. It’s voluntary, so ask whether the company follows it and whether its technicians hold the IICRC AMRT or MRS certification. Repair work of $1,000 or more also needs a CSLB-licensed contractor.
What affects the cost
Every job is different, so get a written estimate before work starts. Cost depends on:
- How large the affected area is
- Whether the mold is on the surface or inside walls, ceilings or floors
- How much material has to be removed and replaced
- Whether the water problem has been fixed already
- Access, such as a tight crawl space or second-story attic
Before the company arrives
- Don’t disturb or scrub large areas of mold; it can spread spores.
- Stop the water if you can, such as turning off a leaking supply line.
- Take photos for your records, and for your landlord or insurance company.
- Keep pets and family members with breathing problems away from the area.