Mold is a dynamic hazard that may not be easily noticeable or removable by the regular homeowner. Additionally, different techniques are utilized in inspecting, testing, removing and remediating a home that is suspected to have a mold infestation. Indeed, inspecting and removing mold from air conditioning systems requires a different technique from removing molds from heating systems. This calls for proper planning and utilization of appropriate techniques to actually detect and eradicate the mold.
As a homeowner, you are likely to come across a plethora of well-meaning mold inspection and removal contractors. Against such as backdrop, it can indeed be very difficult to choose the right mold removal company to entrust with the mold problem in your home. The lack of statewide legal reinforcement for these companies has not made it easier for homeowners. However, there are a few things you might want to consider when selecting contractor to inspect and removal any existing molds in your home.
Are they legitimate?
Licenses and certificates do not always speak about the legitimacy of a mold inspection and removal company. So what types of licensure and certifications are more important? Look out for certification issued by the Indoor Air Quality Association, which offers training and certification for mold removal specialists. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning mold removal contractors obtain certification from the National Air Duct Cleaners Association. While these certifications are impressive, they do not guarantee that the contractor will offer you the best services, so look at other factors.
Are they experienced?
Mold inspection and removal can cost you several hundreds of dollars. As such, you need to find a contractor who has adequate know-how to attend to the mold problem in your home. It is always safer to work with contractors who have been in business longer. You also want to find out what others are saying about this particular contractor. The Better Business Bureau would be a great place to start in determining the customer experience offered by several mold inspection and removal service providers in your city.
Are they well equipped and up-to date?
The “mold industry” is guided by several industry procedures and standards to ensure that both the home and the homeowner remain safe even after the mold removal and remediation process. Some of these protocols include the Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of Fungi in Indoor Environments, the Environmental Protection Administration’s Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings as well as the Bureau of Environmental and Occupational Disease Epidemiology. The contractor you select should also have adequate mold inspection and removal equipment to do the job right- larger, more established companies are more likely to have the required technology or equipment.
Are they insured?
The contractor you choose to work with must be sufficiently insured and must be willing to issue you a contract and proof of insurance. The contract will defend you from any liabilities, loss, or injuries that the contractor may incur while working in your home. If possible, ask an attorney to read the fine print of the indemnification contract as well as the proof of insurance.