Mold
What is mold? We answer several questions concerning the topic of mold, discussing several issues that affect the overall health of the home.

Mold on an interior wall
Who should do the cleanup?
If the area is less than about 10 square feet, you can probably handle the job yourself. However:
In situations where a lot of water damage, and/or mold growth covers more than 10 square feet, consult the EPA’s Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document is applicable to other building types.
It’s important when choosing a contractor (or other professional service provider) to do the cleanup, make sure the contractor has experience. Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations in EPA’s Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, or the guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
Consider first if heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold, consult the EPA’s Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? before taking further action. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold – it could spread mold throughout your home.
Determine what the cause of the water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, then call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged by contaminated water.
When health concerns are present, consult a health professional before starting cleanup.
For more information, read the EPA’s A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home.
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