How much does mold removal cost?
Mold remediation costs $1,006-$1,335, on average. However, mold removal costs can range from $30-$60 for small mold removal jobs to $4,300-$15,500 for larger mold remediation jobs. It all depends on the severity, scope and where the mold is growing in your home.
Mold remediation cost:
| Average cost range | $1,006-$1,335 |
| Low-end cost range | $30-$60 |
| High-end cost range | $4,300-$15,500 |
A mold removal company may want to perform a visual inspection before providing you with a quote for their services, although testing for mold is not always required. Are you wondering how much does mold removal cost? Keep reading this cost guide to learn more about the various cost factors.
What’s in this cost guide?
- Cost per square foot
- Mold inspection cost
- Cost factors
- Mold inspection cost
- How long does mold remediation take?
- What is the mold remediation process?
- Is mold damage covered by homeowners insurance?
- Signs of mold
- Dangers of mold
- Hiring a pro vs. DIY
- How to hire a mold remediation company
- Use Thumbtack to find mold removal pros
- FAQs
Mold removal costs per square foot will vary depending on where you live, labor costs and many other factors. Some mold remediation companies may charge $5-$10 per square foot, while others may charge $25 or more per square foot. Request cost estimates from professionals near you to see what the rates are in your city.
On average, a mold inspection costs $888-$1,341. This includes inspecting and testing your home for mold.
The size of the affected area can impact the mold or black mold removal cost. If your mold growth is confined to a space that’s less than 10 square feet, consider cleaning it up yourself to save money. In this case, you’ll want to buy household cleaners and gear (i.e., masks, gloves, goggles) to protect yourself as much as possible.
If you’re not comfortable cleaning it up yourself, you can hire a professional. And if you have a large mold infestation, it’s also recommended that you hire a professional — which will be pricier than removing it yourself.
Here are the most common factors that frequently affect how much you'll pay:
- Size of the mold. If the moldy area is less than a 3-foot-by-3-foot patch (or 10 sq. feet), you can clean the mold yourself and only pay for cleaners and protective gear.
- Location of the mold. Mold in crawl spaces may be less expensive to treat than attic mold, drywall mold or mold in HVAC systems.
- What caused the mold. In cases where the mold was caused by a broken pipe, leaky roof shingles, poor insulation or faulty AC units, you might need to pay more to have those items fixed.
- Damages and restoration. If the mold causes major structural damage to your home, furniture or fabrics, it will likely cost you extra to have those items restored. For example, fabric damage restoration costs anywhere from $108-$700, on average.
The time it takes to get rid of mold in your home depends on the severity of the issue and the company you choose to hire. Some companies might be able to complete the process in one to five days. Or, it might take closer to a week for others. If you decide to get a mold inspection, it might take a few days for the labs to report back on the findings from the mold test.
Mold remediation is a multi-step process that involves mold-killing, removing the dead fungi and disinfecting the surfaces and areas to protect against mold regrowth.
Remediation is often used interchangeably with the term “removal,” but removal is actually just one factor in the multi-step process. Remediation is more extensive because it involves identifying the source of the mold, avoiding cross-contamination, cleaning and drying infected areas, removing mold-infected materials and preventing future mold outbreaks.
A professional typically follows these steps in their remediation plan:
Performing a mold inspection
Mold testing (or sampling) takes place to identify the type of mold. This step is generally not necessary if you can already see the mold growth. If you think you need an inspection, contact mold inspectors near you.
Identifying and fixing the source of the mold
Mold thrives and spreads in damp environments. Before mold removal can be effective, the source of the water or dampness must be identified and repaired or removed. A professional may check your attic, crawlspace, air ducts and other areas that typically experience mold growth. The water source may also need to be sealed. Professionals might use infrared scanners and probes to find hidden leaks or seepage.
Disposing of moldy materials and items
The professional will properly bag and dispose of any mold-infested items that are beyond repair. Spongy items like mattresses, pillows and drywall are particularly susceptible because it’s easy for them to absorb large amounts of mold and water.
Cleaning with biocide and drying the infected surfaces and areas
Mold spores in the air system will quickly spread even after the process is completed. Many professionals use a HEPA vacuum to get rid of mold, dust and debris from the air, avoiding further spreading or contamination. In more severe infestations, a wet/dry vacuum or a dry ice vacuum may be required. Once drying is completed, they will thoroughly clean any remaining items with a damp cloth.
Restoration of damaged items
This includes restoration of structural damage caused by either the mold or the removal process. In some cases, mold remediation specialists will even offer fabric restoration, carpet cleaning and pad removal. Not all companies offer this service, but you can check with your specialist to see what services they offer.
Prevention of future mold problems
Once the process is complete, you should discuss with the professional how to reduce the chances of a future mold problem in your home. This may involve regularly checking for leaks, adding ventilation to bathrooms or laundry rooms, dehumidifying your home and more.
Mold treatment and water damage are not typically covered by homeowners insurance, especially if the damage took place slowly over a period of time when it could have been caught by the homeowner. When mold forms quickly due to a bursting pipe or a faulty washer hose, home insurance may cover the mold remediation cost.
Homeowners insurance also does not usually cover flood damage, which can be a primary source of mold growth. If you live in a high-risk flood area, you may need flood insurance. Flood insurance will typically cover the mold removal costs — as long as the mold was a direct result of the water damage and not of neglect after the fact. Insurance policies can vary, so check with your insurance agent for a full description of your policy.
If you notice several of these signs, you should call a professional to remove the mold in your home:
- You have skin rashes, eye irritation and respiratory problems such as wheezing, dry coughing or shortness of breath. Stachybotrys chartarum — sometimes referred to as black mold— and other types of mold can cause a range of nonspecific symptoms. You should see your doctor if you have been unknowingly exposed to mold. According to the CDC, individuals with asthma are more susceptible to mold.
- You smell mold or mildew. If the infestation of mold is large, you will usually be able to catch a whiff of it in the air. Mold typically has an earthy or musty odor.
- You see patches on walls and furniture. If you see discolored spots or speckled growth on your walls — including basement or attic walls — or furniture, you might have a mold problem.
- You’ve recently had a flood or a severe leak. Mold thrives in areas with a lot of moisture, especially if it was allowed to stand around for a long time.
- The mold is in a space that’s larger than 10 square feet. This is a sign that your mold problem is too big for DIY tactics, and hiring a professional is likely your best route.
Indoor mold — including black mold — can cause health problems, especially for those who have a mold allergy, a respiratory illness or a compromised immune system. Airborne mold spores are the culprit for most mold-related health issues.
Symptoms in people in good health may include coughing and wheezing, a sore throat or other upper respiratory tract systems, while the presence of mold exacerbates symptoms in people with asthma.
Possible symptoms from mold exposure and/or mold allergy:
- Coughing and wheezing
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Nasal or sinus congestion
- Cough and postnasal drip
- Itchy eyes, nose and throat
- Watery eyes
- Dry, scaly skin
- Skin rashes or irritation
- Hay fever
Related content: Watch out for these 10 home safety and health hazards.
Sometimes, it’s possible to do it yourself when it comes to mold clean-up — especially if the mold is confined to a small area.
However, if the mold damage exceeds 10 feet or is a risk to your health, it’s best to get a professional involved. It’s also important to hire a mold professional if the mold is creeping into your HVAC (heating/ventilation/air conditioning) system, as it could spread mold throughout your home.
Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency doesn't have a certification program for mold inspectors or remediation companies, certain states may have their own requirements. For example, Texas has a regulated mold assessment industry to ensure these services have the appropriate licenses and training.
After you’ve determined your state’s licensure laws, take some time to research companies in your area. An experienced professional should be able to help you with mold removal, but they should also be able to put processes in place to prevent mold from growing back in the future. Look for companies that also provide water damage inspection services, as they are trained to look for moisture.
When comparing companies and specialists, pay attention to customer reviews and photos. You’ll want to choose a service that has positive reviews and offers fair prices.
Visit the safety page to learn more about how to hire a professional on Thumbtack.
If you suspect that your home may be infested with mold, it's important to your health and the investment you have in your home to take action immediately. The longer you wait, the more serious the problem will get.
Take the next step, and browse the top mold removal professionals in your area who are available to help.
FAQs
What is mold?
Mold is a fungus that naturally grows everywhere in the world. Small amounts of mold spores are normal, and there’s actually no way to completely get rid of them. However, when mold growth occurs in large quantities indoors, it can become problematic. And toxic mold can cause health problems.
Related content: The most common types of mold.
What's the difference between mold and mildew?
Mold and mildew have similarities, but also a few noticeable differences. For example, mildew is considered a "surface fungi" and is usually gray or white, whereas mold is green or black. You can usually treat mildew by scrubbing it with a household cleaner, but removing mold may require a professional's help.
What causes mold in homes?
Mold is caused by moisture. It can thrive indoors if you have leaky pipes, a moisture problem in your basement or an insufficient venting system in your bathroom. A lack of insulation in your windows, walls or roof may cause condensation to build up, which can lead to mold.
Can mold be completely removed from a house?
No. Indoor environments can never become completely mold-free because mold is a naturally growing fungus that can grow on almost any surface. But, mold can (and should) be controlled. And the best way to do that is by reducing moisture and remediating mold when you notice it in your home.
Can you clean up mold yourself?
Depending on the extent of the damage and your ability to protect yourself, it’s possible to clean mold yourself. If you are doing it yourself, your work area should not exceed 10 square feet. Otherwise, it’s time to get a professional involved.
For smaller areas, you can use a bleach solution or detergent to clean the infected area, according to the CDC. This may be your last resort if you’re cleaning up mold after a natural disaster like a hurricane or flood. When cleaning, don’t forget to wear the correct protective gear, such as am N-95 respirator, gloves and goggles. Do not mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners, as this is extremely dangerous.
It’s always best to consult an expert to determine the right protective gear and the best mold mitigation measures.
How do you prevent mold growth in your home?
The best way to prevent mold from growing is to control moisture levels in your home. When mold spores land on places or surfaces with excessive moisture, mold growth can occur. Aim to keep your home’s humidity levels at less than 50% (home improvement stores usually carry meters that let you check this number). Investing in a dehumidifier or an air conditioner may help you to keep the moisture down.
It’s also important to quickly address a mold problem. If you let the mold sit for days, it can grow and cause more harm to your home.
What is black mold?
Black mold (or “toxic black mold”) is an unofficial term often used to refer to molds that produce mycotoxins. The term often references Stachybotrys chartarum, which has a greenish-black color.
Does bleach kill black mold?
In general, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) does not recommend using bleach to routinely clean up mold, although there are specific circumstances when a professional may choose to use it.
If you have a small amount of mold, the CDC recommends using one of the following methods to remove the mold:
- Up to 1 cup of household laundry bleach diluted in a gallon of water
- Household products, like bleach or detergent
- Soap and water
Is it safe to stay in a house with black mold?
No, it is not safe to live in a house with black mold or toxic mold. Aside from the obvious health risks of black mold exposure, mold can eat away at the structure of your home, creating a safety hazard. This is typically a problem after a home has endured flood-contaminated damage. If you live in a water-damaged building, you'll want to make sure the building has been inspected for mold.
How do you know if mold is behind drywall?
There are some telltale signs to look for on your drywall that may indicate mold growth:
- Wall deterioration
- Warped walls, or bubbling in the walls
- Discoloration, spots or stains
- Condensation build-up
- Peeling wallpaper
- Soft or rotted areas
Many of these signs indicate water damage, which could eventually lead to a mold issue.
How long does mold remediation last?
It is possible for mold to grow back after remediation. You can reduce these chances by keeping up with preventative measures such as controlling humidity, providing proper ventilation and using mold-resistant building materials in the event of a remodel.
If you spot mold again, you should contact a professional to see about doing another treatment. Unresolved water damage is almost always the culprit in mold regrowth.
