MOLD REMOVAL · FIRST STEPS

What to do after finding mold at home

Start with the moisture problem. The safest next step depends on the size of the affected area, the source of water and whether the home has other hazards.

Visible mold or a persistent musty smell can be a reason to look for a water source. Do not treat a new coat of paint or a room fragrance as a solution. EPA says the key to mold control is moisture control: clean up the mold and fix the water problem. Source: EPA mold guidance.

Pause before you disturb the area

Take a few notes and photos from a safe distance. Record the room, the material affected, a known leak or water event, and whether moisture is still present. Do not open walls, pull up flooring or run equipment just to investigate. If the problem follows flooding, sewage or another contaminated water source, it needs more careful handling.

Use the size and water source to choose help

EPA says that in most cases an affected area smaller than about 10 square feet can be handled using its cleanup guidance. It advises different consideration for extensive water damage, a larger affected area or contaminated water. If there are health concerns, EPA advises consulting a health professional before cleanup. Source: EPA, Mold Cleanup in Your Home.

If the heating and cooling system may be part of the moisture problem or may be contaminated, do not use this guide as a direction to inspect it. Ask an appropriate professional to assess the situation. The same caution applies when there are electrical, structural or safety concerns.

Keep the moisture record

Write down when the water problem started, when it was stopped and which materials stayed wet. EPA says drying water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours helps prevent mold growth. That timing is not a promise that every material can be saved; the water source and material matter. Source: EPA moisture guidance.

Ask a professional for a written scope

If you request help, ask the company to separate the moisture repair from the cleanup. The scope can identify affected materials, protection for nearby areas, removal and disposal, and what happens if hidden damage is found. For a plumbing leak, you may also need plumbing help. Water removal and drying can be a separate water damage restoration project.

Question: Do I need a test before addressing visible mold?

Answer: Not always. EPA says mold sampling is usually unnecessary when visible mold is present, and there are no federal airborne-mold limits for a sample to establish compliance. Ask a proposed tester what decision the result will change. Source: EPA mold testing guidance.

For more hiring questions, see our mold removal company checklist. To describe your project, start a mold removal request. PickedPros is a matching service. Availability depends on your project and area, and you decide whether to hire.