Do research when considering mold remediation or repair
After recent storms and resultant flooding, mold in homes and housing units is prevalent, and many people may be dealing with the after effects of mold damage. Our humid climate is also very susceptible to mold in general, and according to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), molds are a natural part of the environment. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, excessive mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed.
How can you tell if you have mold in your home? The EPA states that if your home smells moldy, but you cannot see the source, if water stains are present, or if you know there has been water damage, there could be mold present in your home. Mold may be hidden in places such as the backside of drywall, wallpaper or paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, and the underside of carpets and pads, etc. Other possible locations of hidden mold include areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation).
Investigating hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when the investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mold growth. When contemplating the cleanup of mold, you need to verify the extent of the problem and likely will need to contact an expert.
The Better Business Bureau of Houston and South Texas warns consumers to research carefully when choosing a professional to clean up mold. Be sure to heed the following tips:
Work with your insurance company. An insurance agent may be able to recommend a reliable and reputable remediation company, and you should contact them first to determine what your insurance policy covers and the process for filing a claim.
Check the company’s history with the Better Business Bureau. You can review the company’s complaint history and details to determine if they have a track record of responding to and resolving BBB complaints.
Verify the company’s license. In Texas, mold remediation contractors must hold an active license with the Texas Department of State Health Services. You may view the status at this website, https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/, or call 1-888-963-7111. The license information also should tell you how long the contractor has been licensed to perform work.
Make sure the business has extensive experience in cleaning up mold. Ask for references from the business and contact these references for more information. Also, ask family and friends if they have worked with a mold remediation expert in the past and had a favorable experience.
Obtain at least three bids. Don’t simply hire the first business that contacts you or one that offers the lowest bid; evaluate the services and offerings of at least three businesses and then make your decision.
The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. For more information or to check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit www. bbbhouston.org, which also includes our BBB Accredited Business Directory, or give us a call at 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is senior director of Investigative Services with the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas.
Send questions regarding homeowner issues to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail her at lnapoliello@bbbhou.org. Include mailing address and phone number on letters and emails.