Cost of Mold Remediation – Estimates and Prices Paid

Molds are simple organisms (fungi) that grow on almost any organic substance as long as there's oxygen and moisture. Small amounts of indoor mold are normal, but large quantities can cause odors, health problems[1] and, in some cases, structural damage to wood. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home"[2] .Typical costs: If the mold is confined to a surface area of no more than 10 square feet (about 3-feet-by-3-feet), the EPA suggests you can remove it yourself[3] by scrubbing hard surfaces with detergent and water, then drying. Removing mold from an average house crawlspace[4] ranges from $500-$4,000, according to Charter Oak Environmental of Connecticut. Overall, a typical mold remediation project to remove mold from the ducts, crawl spaces, walls and attic of a house runs around $2,000-$6,000. And if the mold has caused widespread structural damage, repair costs can increase the total to as much as $10,000-$30,000 or more. Related articles: Mold Inspection, Lead Paint Abatement, Asbestos Removal What should be included: Also called mildew, mold can grow on wood, paper, carpet and food. Although some forms of mold are extremely dangerous or even toxic, most molds are relatively harmless. To reproduce, molds release tiny spores which are often (but not always) airborne. It's not possible to eliminate all mold and mold spores -- the key to controlling mold growth inside your home is controlling moisture. Fix any leaky plumbing or other sources of water, and dry any water-damaged items or areas with 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. North Carolina State University's Cooperative Extension Program provides a mildew prevention guide[5] . Even when mold is dead, the remains can still cause health problems. Remediation includes killing the mold and removing it. Specialized professional equipment includes air scrubbers, HEPA-filtered air movers, industrial-strength biocides and moisture meters. When mold is disturbed, it sends out reproductive spores -- so it's essential to prevent the spread of mold during the cleanup process. Workers wear respirators, gloves and special protective clothing. The work area should be surrounded by plastic sheeting, and all air vents, doors or other openings covered. A large project or a toxic mold may require a decontamination chamber or airlock for entering or exiting the work area. North Carolina State University provides mold remediation guidelines[6] . Additional costs: Usually mold testing or inspection should be done before the remediation work to determine the extent of the problem, and afterward to be sure the process was successful. Although some remediation companies offer free inspections, many industry experts recommend having the inspections done by a different firm. The presence of mold means there's a water problem that must be fixed or the mold will return. This could require new plumbing; improving your home's ventilation or drainage; moving air conditioning units out of the attic; adding a vapor barrier; or repairing or replacing the roof. Costs will depend on the type and extent of the problem. If there is toxic mold or the remediation area is large, it may be necessary to pay for other housing until the work is done. Discounts: The cost of mold remediation might be tax deductible[7] ; check with your tax professional or the IRS[8] . Shopping for mold remediation: Mold spreads easily when disturbed, and an untrained mold remediation contractor can do more harm than good. Check with your state licensing board [9] to be sure a contractor is licensed specifically for mold remediation. Request and check references; ask about training, certification and experience; know exactly who in the company will perform any needed work; and be sure the company has general liability insurance. Check for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau[10] . A Texas company explains how to select[11] a mold remediation contractor. There are a number of organizations offering mold "certification" -- some require only a fee or an online course to qualify as a certified expert. Check to be sure that your contractor is certified by a group requiring training, experience and testing. Referrals are available from the American Council for Accredited Certification. CostHelper News What People Are Paying - Recent Comments Posted by: a user in Abington, MA. Posted: January 22nd, 2013 10:01AM Contractor: anonymous Extent of Damage: basement

If you are willing to buy a house with mold or one that has flooded in the past (whether or not the seller allegedly clean it out), the best thing that you can do is to hire an environmental specialist to inspect the damage first (this is not covered in the initial inspection of the home as this is not part of their job description). They will be able inform you how much damage there really is and give you an estimate of how much it will cost to repair the damages. If there is visible damage, there is a definite possibly that the mold spead to the structure of the house as well. If there is no visible damage, there may be damage under the paneling or wall that you can not see. This also has the possiblity of causing structural damage. Weighing the results from the environmental specialist's views will help you to determine if the house is worth it in the end. If you choose not to use an environmental specialist due to costs, you are better off finding another house because the damages are could be higher than hiring a professional only for an estimate. Especiially seeing that many of them will do the estimate for free.

I am hoping that this mold problem can be a do-it-yourself fix...otherwise I really don't feel comfortable purchasing this home knowing that it will triggar an asthmatic rx in myself and possibly my boys. I believe it is due to bad drainage outside and can be fixed, but at what cost?

Well, I was looking in purcharing this house when I readed on it, it's SOLD AS IS an I read in the clause that it has mold in the house but I don't know how bad it is. I really like the house but I'm not to sure should I get the house since I have three small children an my finacee is like really back out the deal cause he thinking about the saftey for my kids. I'm not to sure should I go head an buy it an spend more money on the house or should I keep looking for something else?

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Cost of Mold Remediation - Estimates and Prices Paid