Here’s how to find mold remediation pros in Houston
Plumbing problems, leaky windows and roofs, poor insulation, and flood damage can all cause mold to grow. Not only does mold look and smell bad, but it can also cause serious health problems. If you notice mold in your home, you need to take immediate action to address it. The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas offers the following tips to help you find trustworthy contractors who specialize in mold remediation:
• Determine if you can clean up the mold yourself. If a moldy area is less than 10 square feet in size, you may be able to handle it yourself. You will need to fix any water problems, then scrub mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent. Make sure you wear the proper personal protective equipment while you clean. Dry the area completely. Keep in mind that some porous materials, such as carpet and ceiling tiles may need to be thrown out if they are moldy. You will not be able to eliminate mold from these and similar porous materials.
• Know when to hire a professional. If you are dealing with a lot of water damage, or the mold growth covers more than 10 square feet of space, it may be better to hire a professional. The same is true if you suspect your home or office has hidden mold that you can’t see. Investigating hidden mold requires caution, since uncovering the source of the mold could potentially lead to a release of mold spores that could contaminate the rest of the building.
• Decide if you need to hire an indoor air quality consultant first.
If you can see or smell mold in a building, testing for it isn’t usually necessary. However, if you are struggling with stagnant water issues or high humidity, indoor air quality (IAQ) consultants can help you identify structural issues and help you see how to get to the source of the problem. Keep in mind, IAQ consultants only consult. You’ll still need to hire a contractor for repair and cleanup.
• Watch out for conflicts of interest. If you hire a consultant before hiring a contractor for remediation, make sure the two are not connected in any way financially. Consulting firms should let you know if they have financial ties to any contractors they recommend, but ultimately it is your responsibility as the property owner to inquire.
• Find a qualified mold remediation contractor. Ask each contractor if they have any specialized training for mold assessment and remediation. Mold remediation contractors are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, and licensed can verified at www.tdlr.texas.gov. Also, ask about any previous jobs they’ve done and references. You can contact past clients to find out if they were satisfied with the contractor’s work.
• Get several estimates. Have a few contractors visit your building and inspect the problem before writing up a detailed estimate with an explanation of the work they will do along with the cost. Make sure each contractor gives you an estimate for the same work and then compare prices.
This is a good way to ensure you don’t get overcharged. Look for a contractor with competitive prices but be wary of anyone who gives you a surprisingly low quote.
• Understand that buildings can’t be made “mold free.” If a contractor tells you they can remove every last trace of mold from your building, this is a red flag. Avoid contractors that make this unrealistic claim.
• Check for consumer complaints. Research all mold remediation contractors and indoor air quality (IAQ) consultants at BBBHouston.org to make sure the business has a good reputation. Check for reports of complaints filed by previous clients before you sign a contract and agree to hire someone. Be wary of any contractor or consultant who uses scare tactics to try to make a sale. In addition, be extra cautious with unsolicited offers for mold remediation, whether they come by telephone, mail, or an in person offer.
Visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is BBB VP of operations. Send questions to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail lnapoliello@bbbhou.org with address and phone number.