Mold removal costs $15 to $30 per square foot. Most mold removal projects cost $1,500 to $3,000 for the average home. Mold remediation specialists have labor rates of $75 to $100 hourly. These prices don't include plumber's fees for fixing any water leaks that caused mold.

The mold removal process includes:

• Containing the moldy area with plastic sheeting to stop spores from spreading
• Deep cleaning the affected area with chemicals, abrasion techniques, or dry-ice blasting
• Removing molded parts too damaged to clean
• Disposing of all materials
• Encapsulating areas prone to mold growth, like crawl spaces

In most cases, mold specialists recommend that homeowners leave during the treatments to avoid exposure to fumes. You can typically return one day after the mold removal. Some people choose to stay in the house if only one small area needs treating.

Mold removal takes 1 to 7 days on average, and it can take longer for homes larger than 2,000 square feet with a large spread of mold spores.

Signs of mold in your house include:

• Growing gray, black, or dark green stains on the ceiling or walls
• Damp areas with peeling paint around the stains
• Rotting odors of decay and mildew
• Sinus problems worsening
• Damaged areas around pipe leaks

Mold causes many health problems like allergic reactions, skin or eye inflammation, sinus congestion, headaches, and respiratory complications. Black mold causes fungal infections in those with weakened immune systems.

Most insurance companies don't cover mold removal unless it's part of flood or plumbing damages that you have coverage for. If the mold came as a result of neglecting property maintenance, then insurance companies will claim that homeowners are responsible for mold-removal payments.

You can remove black mold yourself if the area is less than 5 to 10 square feet and hasn't spread further. Use bleach or white vinegar, wear protective gear, and ventilate the area. Without taking these proper precautions, you can spread mold spores in the air to other rooms.

However, if you have chronic sinus conditions or a weakened immune system, then it's better to call a mold remediation specialist to avoid getting sick.

Call a mold remediation specialist or water-damage restoration experts to get a complete mold inspection of your property and a quote for removal. Before hiring a mold-abatement company:

• Ask if they have training from the Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), OSHA, or EPA-affiliated organizations.
• Compare at least 3 in-person estimates.
• Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Ask if they have all the state-required certifications to apply their chemical treatments.
• Choose licensed, insured, and bonded businesses with at least 5 years of experience.
• Get copies of an itemized bid, contract, and warranty before the project starts.
• Avoid choosing the lowest quote that typically indicates low-quality standards.
• Never give the final payment until after the project ends.

• How long have you been treating mold?
• Can I see your list of references?
• What precautions do you take to stop mold spores from spreading?
• How big is your crew?
• What should I do to prepare my home for the mold treatment?
• Which methods do you recommend and why?
• Will I need additional home repairs to prevent mold from coming back after remediation?
• Has the mold spread into my air ducts, and if so, do you provide duct cleaning?
• Does this quote include the inspection, labor, supplies, and cleanup?
• What other costs should I expect?
• How long will the job take?
• Do you offer a warranty?