Find the Best Mold Removal in Tampa, FL

Mold removal and remediation companies in Tampa

Mold removal in Tampa is often necessary in the spring and summer months, when the ground and the air in coastal Florida cities are moist and damp. The most common services required by Tampa homeowners are mold testing and inspections. With a lot of new construction in neighborhoods such as Land O’Lakes, Riverview, Apollo Beach and Lutz, recently built homes are often watched by builders for signs of mold and mildew.

Tampa’s humidity makes mold an ongoing problem. After heavy rains, thunderstorms, flash floods and tropical storms, there’s a lot of water that can seep into surfaces and roofs, setting the stage for mold growth. Air conditioning units run frequently in Tampa, causing condensation and leaking drain pipes. If there isn’t enough ventilation inside the home, mildew and mold can quickly develop and spread. Leaking pipes that go unnoticed can also cause problems within 48 hours of water settling into surfaces and behind walls.

If mold isn’t detected and removed right away, serious health problems can occur. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, symptoms might include:

• Respiratory problems like wheezing.
• Nasal and sinus congestion or a dry, hacking cough.
• Burning, watery eyes that are irritated and red.
• Nose or throat irritation accompanied by sneezing fits and bloody noses.
• Rashes, hives and other skin irritations.
• Nervous system problems like headaches, memory loss and mood changes.
• Aches and pains.

Costs of mold removal in Tampa

Mold testing in Tampa will cost between $300 and $500. A professional will inspect your property and determine whether you have mold and what type of mold it is. Cleaning the mold will come with additional costs, which will depend on the size of the area and whether it has spread to subfloors, drywall and concrete.

Removing mold will cost around $2,500 for most homes. If the problem is caught quickly and minor, it could be as little as $1,000. A major remediation project could cost as much as $5,000 or $6,000. Toxic mold spreading through the house will cost more than a few patches of mold in the ceiling or on an HVAC unit. You’ll also need to budget for additional remediation equipment such as dehumidifiers and repairs to carpet, floors, walls and roofs.

According to Florida’s Department of Consumer Services , homeowners insurance policies rarely cover mold. Even if they do offer coverage, it will only be when the mold is caused by a covered peril, which does not include floods.

Many Tampa mold remediation companies will charge a flat rate for inspections and identification. Then, to remove the mold, they will charge by the square foot of affected space. Consumers might also find that some companies charge by the hour, in which case it’s important to find out how many people will be working on the mold removal so you can estimate how long it will take.

Questions to ask a Tampa mold removal company

Before you hire a company to handle mold removal in Tampa, ask these questions:

• What type of mold testing do you do?
• Do you test the air as well as surfaces?
• Are your employees licensed and certified?
• What type of insurance do you carry?
• What type of equipment do you use?
• How do you isolate the affected area and prevent mold from spreading?
• Can you help with mold prevention?
• Do you offer a guarantee?
• How will I be billed?

Consumers should also make sure they’re working with a qualified company. Florida regulates mold remediation companies. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation requires coursework and testing before a license is granted. Insurance, fingerprinting and an application fee are also required.

Certifications will also speak to the reputation of a mold removal company and its commitment to professional development and ethical standards. Look for certifications from organizations such as:

• National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors
• National Association of Mold Remediators and Inspectors
• National Association of Mold Professionals

Spotting a mold problem

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mold is most commonly found in places with moisture, such as showers, tubs, around windows, on roofs and in ceilings. It can also be seen on paint, wallpaper, drywall and carpet. Look for wet spots on walls and ceilings, and if you notice black or green spores gathering and spreading, it could be mold.

Don’t mistake mildew for mold. Mildew is a fungus that grows on surfaces and is usually a gray or white patch. When it comes off easily with a cleaner and some light scrubbing, you know it isn’t mold.

Black mold is more dangerous than non-toxic mold. It can cause severe health problems and even lead to death if you’re exposed to it for a long period of time. While some types of mold can be removed easily, touching black mold will make the problem worse. If it’s disturbed, it can release mycotoxins into the air, and that’s going to create an unhealthy environment in your home. Contact a professional mold removal company in Tampa as soon as you suspect you may have it in your home.