Mold Remediation Survival Guide
Answers to your questions and resources for all your mold damage remediation needs.
Abbotts Cleanup & Restoration
Mold Remediation
Mold Damage. Now what?
Excessive moisture is the primary reason that property owners require mold remediation services. Mold can be very elusive, growing undetected in cracks and even within
the walls of your home. A thorough mold inspection of your property must be performed to locate potential mold infestations as well as the source of water fueling the mold growth.
What are the warning signs of mold?
When left unchecked, accumulated moisture around your home can quickly cause mold growth in various areas. Even if this mold doesn’t end up being toxic, the spores that enter your home’s air can cause respiratory issues, especially with household members who already suffer from asthma or allergies.
The best way to prevent mold damage is by removing moisture before mold can have the opportunity to grow. But, since we don’t live in a perfect world, some mold might go unnoticed for an extended period of time. If this occurs, then it’s important that you are able to know the warning signs right away. To help you out, we’ve compiled the most common warning signs of mold growth. LEARN MORE.
Should I be concerned about black mold?
The term “black mold” strikes fear into any property owner. We’ve all heard that black mold is the worst of the worst, though many of us are unaware of exactly why. Here, we cover what exactly black mold is, how to identify it, what health risks it presents, and how to get rid of it.
The best way to prevent mold damage is by removing moisture before mold can have the opportunity to grow. But, since we don’t live in a perfect world, some mold might go unnoticed for an extended period of time. If this occurs, then it’s important that you are able to know the warning signs right away. To help you out, we’ve compiled the most common warning signs of mold growth. LEARN MORE.
Selecting a Contractor
Mold remediation is a job that demands prompt attention. This does not mean, however, that you should hire the first restoration contractor that knocks on your door. Take your time and exercise due diligence to hire the right mold remediation contractor for your job. Here are a few things for you to consider.
Reputation
A history of delighted customers and outstanding service.
Credibility
Building customer confidence with licensing, certifications and insurance
Experience
Masters of our their craft, based on years of practical experience and education.
Availability
Consistently approachable and responsible, so customers never feel ignored.
Professionalism
Providing service you can trust with honesty, reliability and respect.
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Property Damage
Generally speaking, mold growth caused by neglect is not covered by home insurance. Mold, mildew, fungus or spores will typcially be covered by homeowner’s insurance if they were the result of a specific problem that was covered by the policy. For example, water damage results from a burst pipe that then leads to mold.
Documenting Your Damage
Regardless if your mold damage results from rain or snow, appliance or plumbing leaks, documenting your damage particularly important. Follow these tips to record both the damage and your cleanup efforts for your insurance company. LEARN MORE
Insurance Bill of Rights
Your insurance policy is a contract between you and the insurance company. It entitles you to certain rights and imposes certain obligations. This Bill of Rights has been prepared so that you may better understand the policy you have purchased – and how it relates to the repairs you need as a result of your fire damage. Standard Homeowners Policies generally contains the same provisions throughout the United States and Canada. Understand your rights and obligations under its terms. LEARN MORE.
Colorado Insurance Consumer Freedom of Choice
The Colorado Insurance Consumer Freedom of Choice bill was signed into law on September 13, 2007. This law prevents insurance companies from controlling – directly or indirectly – which restoration company you use to restore your property. People often wonder why such a law was necessary. The reality is that insurance companies are in business to make a profit. When you file a claim, the insurance company has a conflict of interest. They have a responsibility to you, the policyholder, but they also have a responsibility to the shareholders to minimize the payout on your claim so they can make more profit. This conflict too often resulted in insurance companies taking advantage of policyholders.
Under this law, you have the right to choose your own restoration contractor, you have the right to have your claim paid promptly and you have the right to know if your insurance company has a business arrangement with your restoration company. The bottom line is that you have the right to choose an independent contractor that ensures your insurance company acts in your best interests. LEARN MORE.
A few good questions will help you avoid unnecessary repair bills in times of chaos
There are a lot of factors that determine if your policy covers mold damage. Sometimes the policy won’t cover mold remediation but will provide coverage for related water damage. Additionally, if damage is caused by the actions of another – like an appliance installation specialist or routine city maintenance – you may be covered under their policy. A few good questions will help you avoid unnecessary repair bills. LEARN MORE.
Need an expert?
Abbotts is standing by 24/7 to help with your water damage emergency.
The Stages of MOLD
Damage Restoration
STEP 1
Emergency Response
STEP 2
Cleanup & Mitigation
STEP 3
Estimate Preparation
STEP 4
Property Restoration
STEP 5
Claim Management
Understanding Mold Remediation
Mold remediation professionals remove mold using a variety of methods depending on the size and complexity of the contamination. A widely followed remediation protocol is the Environmental Protection Agency’s Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings. The basic methods and principles are a good guide for professional remediation of any building, including homes.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that because mold creates mycotoxins, a potential health risk exists if mold is seen or smelled. While some molds may be toxic, all mold should be removed promptly and completely. Mold, if allowed to grow in homes and offices, can contribute to poor indoor air quality, negative health impacts and structural problems.
More Videos
Mold Remediation Video Playlist
Water Damage Video Playlist
Sewage Cleanup Video Playlist
How Restoration Works Video Playlist
Insurance Restoration Video Playlist
Blog Topics
Abbotts Mold Remediation Survival Guide
Dealing with Black Mold
Warning Signs of Mold
Mold Growth Caused by Moisture
Documenting Water Damage