How to Hire a Mold Remediation Company: 10 Questions to Ask
A structured checklist for vetting remediation companies. What to ask, what the right answers sound like, and the red flags that should make you walk away.
The 10 Questions
"Are you IICRC certified?"
Look for MRS (Mold Remediation Specialist) or AMRT (Applied Microbial Remediation Technician). This is the industry standard certification. A company without it may not follow proper containment and removal protocols.
Right answer: MRS or AMRT certification
"Will you provide a written scope of work before starting?"
A written scope of work details exactly what will be done: which areas, what materials will be removed, what treatment will be used, and what clearance standard will be met. Without one, there is no way to hold the company accountable.
Right answer: Detailed written scope before signing
"What containment method will you use?"
For jobs over 10 sq ft, full containment with plastic sheeting and negative air machines is required. Any company that skips containment risks spreading spores throughout the house.
Right answer: Poly sheeting + negative air for 10+ sq ft
"Will you do a post-remediation clearance test?"
Clearance testing is the only way to verify the job was done correctly. The test should be performed by an independent inspector, not the remediation company.
Right answer: Yes, by an independent third party
"Do you offer a warranty?"
Reputable companies offer 1-5 year warranties on their work. The warranty should cover mold recurrence in the remediated area, provided the moisture source was properly fixed.
Right answer: 1-5 year warranty on remediated areas
"Are you licensed in this state?"
Several states (FL, TX, LA, MD, VA, and others) require specific mold remediation licenses. A general contractor license does not qualify. Check your state licensing board.
Right answer: State-specific mold license where required
"Will you fix the moisture source or just remove the mold?"
Some companies only do mold removal and leave the moisture source to you. Others include moisture source repair in their scope. Either is acceptable, but you need to know which so you can arrange the other.
Right answer: Clear answer about what is included
"Can you provide references from similar jobs?"
Ask for references from jobs similar in size and location to yours. A company experienced in bathroom surface mold may not have the expertise for a large attic or crawl space job.
Right answer: References from comparable jobs
"What does your insurance cover?"
The company should carry general liability and professional liability insurance. Workers compensation is also required. Ask for a certificate of insurance before work begins.
Right answer: GL, professional liability, workers comp
"How many quotes should I get?"
The right answer from a reputable company is 'at least 3.' A company that pressures you to sign immediately or discourages getting other quotes is a red flag.
Right answer: They encourage you to get 3 quotes
Red Flags: Walk Away If You See These
- Does both testing and remediation. Conflict of interest. They profit from finding problems and then fixing them.
- Demands full payment up front. Standard is a deposit (25-50%) with balance on completion. Never pay 100% before work starts.
- No written scope of work. Verbal estimates are unenforceable. A professional provides a detailed written scope before starting.
- No containment plan. Skipping containment on a job over 10 sq ft spreads spores throughout the house.
- No post-remediation clearance test. Without clearance testing, there is no proof the job was done correctly.
- Scare tactics about black mold. Companies that use fear to charge premiums are exploiting anxiety, not providing expertise.
Where to Find Certified Companies
IICRC Global Locator
Search by ZIP code for IICRC-certified remediation companies. The industry standard directory.
BBB Accreditation
Check the Better Business Bureau for complaints, reviews, and accreditation status. Look for A+ or A ratings.
State Licensing Board
In states that require mold remediation licenses, verify the company is current. Check for disciplinary actions.
How to Compare Quotes Fairly
Do not compare bottom-line prices. Compare what is included in each scope of work:
What a Good Quote Includes
- Specific areas to be remediated (room, wall sections)
- Materials to be removed (drywall, insulation, carpet)
- Containment method and equipment
- Treatment products to be used
- Post-remediation clearance testing
- Timeline (start date, expected duration)
- Warranty terms
Warning Signs in a Quote
- Vague descriptions ("treat affected area")
- No mention of containment
- No clearance testing included
- Significantly lower than other quotes (corners being cut)
- No warranty mentioned
- Verbal estimate only, no written document
Hiring Guide FAQ
How do I find a good mold remediation company?
IICRC Global Locator, BBB accreditation, state licensing board. Get 3 quotes with written scopes of work. Check for MRS or AMRT certification.
What certifications should they have?
IICRC MRS (Mold Remediation Specialist) or AMRT (Applied Microbial Remediation Technician). Plus state licensing where required.
What are the biggest red flags?
Does both testing and remediation, demands full payment up front, no written scope, no containment plan, no clearance testing, and scare tactics about black mold.
How many quotes should I get?
At least 3. Compare written scopes of work, not just prices. The cheapest quote with less containment and no clearance testing is not a better deal.
Should the tester and remediator be different companies?
Yes. A company that does both has a conflict of interest. Independent testing ensures objectivity.