Mold Remediation

Mold is a moisture problem first and a remediation problem second — if the source moisture is not solved, the colony returns. We follow IICRC S520: contain the affected zone with negative air, remove non-salvageable porous materials, HEPA-clean and disinfect remaining surfaces, then verify dryness so the underlying cause does not feed regrowth.

What to do right now

Do not disturb visible mold — disturbance releases spores into the air and spreads contamination. · Isolate the affected room: close doors, shut off the HVAC return serving the zone if possible. · Identify and stop the moisture source (active leak, condensation, recurring flooding) before remediation begins. · Photograph the visible growth and any water staining or leak source for the assessment record. · Avoid spraying bleach on porous materials — it does not penetrate substrate and is not S520 protocol.

When to call a professional

Visible mold growth on drywall, framing, insulation, or finished basement materials larger than ~10 sq ft. · Persistent musty odor with no visible source — usually hidden growth in wall cavities or under flooring. · Post-water-loss mold appearing 48–72 hours after a leak or flood that was not properly dried. · HVAC contamination or duct lining showing discoloration with downstream allergy/asthma symptoms. · Real estate transaction where an inspector flagged mold that needs documented remediation.

How the mold remediation process works

Remediation follows IICRC S520: pre-remediation assessment, containment with critical barriers and negative-air HEPA filtration, removal of non-salvageable porous materials inside containment, HEPA vacuuming and damp-wiping of remaining surfaces with EPA-registered antimicrobials, structural drying to verify the cavity is dry, then post-remediation verification — visual inspection and (when scoped) third-party clearance air sampling. Source moisture must be corrected before or during remediation, not after.

Insurance and documentation

Mold coverage on standard homeowner policies is commonly capped (often $5K–

0K) and frequently excluded if the underlying moisture problem was long-standing or maintenance-related. Mold caused by a covered sudden water loss is more often included. We document the moisture source, growth area, removal scope, and verification results so your adjuster has the evidence policy language requires.

Frequently asked questions

Can I clean mold myself?

Small surface growth on non-porous materials (under ~10 sq ft) is often DIY-appropriate with proper PPE. Larger areas, hidden growth, or growth on porous materials (drywall, insulation, framing) requires S520 containment and negative-air control to avoid spreading spores throughout the home.

Will bleach kill mold?

Bleach can kill surface mold on non-porous surfaces but does not penetrate porous materials like drywall or wood — the mycelium underneath survives and regrows. S520 protocols use EPA-registered antimicrobials and physical removal of contaminated porous materials.

Do I need an air quality test?

Not always. For small visible growth with a known source, removal and verification by visual inspection is often appropriate. Pre-remediation testing is useful when growth is suspected but not visible. Post-remediation clearance testing is appropriate for larger projects or sensitive occupants.

How long does mold remediation take?

Containment and remediation for a typical residential project (single room, 50–200 sq ft of growth) runs 3–5 days. Larger projects or those with HVAC contamination can run 1–2 weeks. Reconstruction is a separate timeline that depends on scope.

Will the mold come back?

Only if the moisture source is not corrected. Mold needs water — eliminate the leak, condensation, or humidity issue and properly remediated areas stay clear. We will not remediate without first identifying and addressing the moisture cause.