Mold Remediation & How to Choose a Mold Removal Company

Once a certified mold inspector has concluded that there is mold present and that is likely harmful to your family, or that you have breeding grounds for mold that can become toxic, it’s important to have the mold removed. The process of eliminating the mold and removing contaminated materials is also known as mold remediation.

How to Choose a Mold Remediation Company in Cleveland:

At Dutch’s Mold Inspections & Mold Remediation Services we’re obviously bias because we pride ourselves on being the best mold remediation company serving the Cleveland area, as do many of our customers – read our Angie’s List reviews.  However, in the case that you are outside northeast Ohio, or for whatever reason we can not schedule your mold remediation job, here are some helpful tips for choosing your mold remediation company in Ohio:

Make Sure They’re Certified in Mold Remediation

Believe it or not there are mold remediation companies, mainly the disaster clean-up companies, that promote mold removal as a service provided but they are NOT certified in mold remediation. A CMR – Certified Mold Remediator (see our certifications page) has completed at least 24 hours of education in mold remediation techniques including assessment, mold, water, and respiratory protection (PPE), attended the CMR course including extensive hands-on training in sampling processes, PPE, building containment, establishing negative pressure and fresh air makeup. They maintain their certification annually with additional continuing education and abide by EPA Standards in mold remediation.

Ohio does not have a license for mold remediation, so if a mold remediation company you’re considering declares they’re an “Ohio Licensed Mold Remediator”, this could be a red flag.

Ask About Mold Remediation Process – Containment, Equipment and Removal

Any mold remediation expert worth considering should be happy to explain their remediation process. Their explanation should include things like

  1. Proper containment of the area.  Opening up a wall without proper containment can exacerbate the problem. Make sure your mold remediation contractor will take steps to properly contain the area and ensure your family won’t be at a higher risk while they work. This is particularly important when any work is being done to the HVAC system or duct-works and vents that circulate air through your home. Proper containment includes plastic sheeting and some protection at the entrance to the containment site to avoid cross-contamination. Many times air scrubbers could be used during this step of the process to clean the air.
  2. Workers wearing protective gear. In many scenarios workers are outfitted with proper respirators, or PPEs – personal protective equipment. When working with a mold remediation company you’re likely to see mention of PPEs in their quote or project plan.
  3. Remediation equipment & precautions.  Listen for words describing their equipment to include HEPA vacuums, High-Efficiency Particulate Air vacuums, recommended for final cleanup of remediation areas after materials have been thoroughly dried and contaminated materials removed. All equipment should be properly cleaned after each remediation job to avoid cross contamination.  If the remediation company references the use of biocides (chlorine bleach, fungicides and other chemicals) be cautious, ask to see the label. It is a violation of Federal (EPA) law to use a biocide in any manner inconsistent with its label direction. Although there can be rare occasions biocides may be necessary, it is not common practice because although they’re toxic to mold, they are also toxic to animals and humans.
  4. Removal of contaminated materials. Building materials and furnishings contaminated with mold growth should be removed, usually placed in a large dumpster. Once the materials are outside there is no fear of cross contamination, however when removing the contaminated materials from the home, the area being remediated should remain a contained area.

Correcting the Problem – Proper Ventilation

Part of the mold remediation process includes correcting the moisture problem as well as removing the contaminated materials.  Many mold remediation companies, especially the disaster clean-up or restoration companies, focus on removal of the mold and water damaged material without addressing the cause.  If the cause of the moisture isn’t corrected, the mold will return.  If your mold remediation company isn’t discussing things like improving ventilation and keeping an area clear of fibrous material,  they’re setting you up for another mold remediation need. At Dutch’s Mold Inspections & Mold Remediation Services of the Cleveland, Ohio area we understand the importance of having a house that breathes well and a home that will not be subject to mold contamination and poor indoor air quality.  Read more on our Sick House Syndrome page and Proper Attic Ventilation page. Bottom line – if the company your dealing with isn’t talking about correcting the moisture problem or improving the air flow with proper ventilation, they don’t have your health as their top priority. Keep looking.

 

Read our blog posts over the years to determine if you’re at risk or showing symptoms of mold exposure.