If there is a toxic mold (fungus) problem, the first step after the source is identified is to eliminate it. This is done through a process known as remediation. If the problem is only a minor one, it’s often easier and less costly for the homeowners to do it themselves. However, if it’s a major problem, it’s almost always recommended that the homeowner hires a professional for several reasons. Some are more necessary than others.
All in the company’s entire goal is to remove and/or clean any toxic molds that are present in your home and keep the fungus from re-growing in the affected areas. You should be aware, however, that in some cases if the molds are extremely bad, it may be recommended that the home is condemned due to health risks and costs.
After the assessment has been made, a mold remediation team will be able to estimate the cost of the actual elimination of the mold. This cost will vary depending on the severity of the infestation, including how deep the mold has penetrated into certain building materials, where the mold is located, how widespread it is, and what methods are used to remove the mold.
The final mold remediation cost is the rebuilding of the areas that have been affected by the mold and therefore torn down and removed. Often walls have to be torn down, insulation removed, carpet pulled up, and sometimes even sections of the wood framing need to be removed. All of this will need to be rebuilt after the mold has been removed, and that isn’t generally a job that a remediation service will do. Their job is to eliminate the mold. You’ll need to call in a contractor to rebuild the portions of your house that have been torn down or do it yourself.
Why Does it Cost so Much?
Five reasons why these companies charge thousands of dollars to get rid of mold in a building is listed below.
First, the training to become certified is costly and takes a lot of time.
Second, many removal specialists have mold pollution coverage in their insurance policy. The companies that do have this insurance should have it. The coverage provides protection to the property owner if the company causes more problems by spreading the mold to areas where there was no mold present, to begin with. This insurance is very expensive the companies to carry.
Third, regular liability coverage is not cheap either since mold remediation is a dangerous job. The mold spores can cause health issues to those who inhale them.
Fourth, certified mold remediation companies are hard to find. Those who are good charge tend to charge a higher rate.
Fifth, the specialized equipment the companies have to use are costly. Also, the equipment has to be completely cleaned after each job and all filters, at a cost of about $100 per filter, have to be replaced.
There can be additional costs that you may have to pay for depending on the type of damage done by the mold. These are listed below.
Taking on an Inspection After the Fact
Inspection for mold is performed by the mold Removal Company or contractor before starting the removal process. Some provide the service free of cost if they are awarded the job. Other companies will charge extra. To know how exactly the extensive the damage is, the companies have to perform these inspections.
Mold is usually caused by water leaks. To stop the mold issue completely, plumbing work may have to be done. Again, this type of repair will depend on the amount of work that needs to be done.
If the there is a large amount of toxic mold, the removal can only take place if the property is not inhabited. Temporary housing is another cost that could happen.
This is not a project for an inexperienced person. This job requires the right equipment, the right personnel, and insurance.
Experts urge consumers to watch out for contractors that propose major work on mold remediation without performing less-invasive Tucson water damage measures first. Less-invasive water damage measures involve the use of high-speed drying fans and some cleaning materials. These measures should be performed first before the contractor proposes tearing down the wall to get rid of the mold.
And finally, you should keep in mind that when you are considering hiring a professional, inspectors of molds are not qualified to remove the fungus. An inspector’s job is to inspect your home for mold and prevent their findings only, so make sure that the company you intend on hiring is qualified for mold remediation in Houston, otherwise, you’ll just be wasting everyone’s time and your hard earned money.