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Mold Inspection and Remediation After Water Damage

Mold remediation fixes the moisture first, seals off the area by size, removes moldy porous materials and cleans what can be saved.

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Fix the water first

Mold needs moisture. Cleaning it without stopping the leak means it comes back. EPA says to dry water damaged areas within 24 to 48 hours and keep indoor humidity below 60%. Dry desert air helps, but a hidden leak behind a wall or under a sink can keep one spot wet for months.

Small, medium or large

  • Small, under 10 square feet. EPA says most people can clean this themselves with gloves, goggles and an N 95 mask.
  • Medium, 10 to 100 square feet. Limited containment with plastic sheeting.
  • Large, over 100 square feet. Full containment so spores do not spread through the house.

CDC says people with asthma, allergies or a weak immune system should stay out of mold cleanup.

Testing and honest answers

EPA says that if you can see mold, sampling is usually not needed, and there are no federal limits for mold. Be wary of anyone who says a test passed a federal standard. A test can help when you smell mold but cannot find it, or after a cleanup to check the work.

What gets removed

Moldy drywall, insulation, carpet and ceiling tiles usually come out. Hard surfaces get scrubbed with detergent and water. If the HVAC may hold mold, EPA says not to run it until it is checked and cleaned. Nevada is not on the short list of states with a mold license, so ask what training the crew has and what containment they will use.

Questions people ask

Can I remove mold myself?
EPA says most people can clean areas under about 10 square feet. Larger areas need containment. People with asthma or allergies should not do it.
Do I need a mold test?
If you can see mold, EPA says testing is usually not needed. Testing helps when you smell it but cannot find it.
How fast does mold grow after a leak?
EPA says to dry wet areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Is black mold dangerous?
EPA lists allergy type symptoms, asthma attacks and irritation as health effects. See a doctor about health concerns.
Can mold grow in a dry climate like Las Vegas?
Yes, wherever a leak keeps a spot wet. Under sinks, behind walls and around AC drain pans are common places.
Should I use bleach on mold?
EPA suggests detergent and water for hard surfaces. If you use bleach, CDC says no more than 1 cup per gallon and never mix it with ammonia.
What is mold containment?
Plastic sheeting that seals off the work area so spores do not spread. It is used on jobs over 10 square feet.
Is there a federal mold safety level?
No. EPA says there are no federal limits for mold.
Does insurance cover mold?
Mold is usually excluded, though mold from a covered sudden leak may be handled with that claim. Check your policy.
Can I run my AC if there is mold in the ducts?
EPA says not to run a system you know or suspect is contaminated until it is inspected and cleaned.

Neighborhoods we cover

Water where it should not be?

(725) 302-6540

Call or text. Say where the water came from, when it started and which rooms are wet. You will get the first steps right away and a time for someone to come out.

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