Who should I contact about mold removal in my home?

Question

I own a residence in Lexington, KY and just recently found black mold in my basement. Other than a general home repair agent to assess the situation and my insurance rep, who should I contact? Are there mold removal specialists or will a general home repair handymen be sufficient?

If anyone has any referrals for entities in Lexington specifically I greatly appreciate it.

Answer 1

Finding a mold that it black in a basement is normal.  What you need to do first, before you spend TONS of money, is to buy a $30 test kit and see what type of mold you have. Bleach will clean up 99.9% of mold very efficiently, and costs about $2.

Answer 2

Mold removal is only one part of your problem.  Yes, you want it removed but as you noted you also would like the insurance co to compensate you for damage and you need damage repaired.  Lastly, the mold grew in its current location due to favorable conditions.  Typically this means too much water.  In addition to correcting the existing damage you need to resolve underlying conditions.  

A mold specialist will wash the moldy surfaces but may or may not be able to deal with underlying conditions.  You might even be able to get a cleaning company to come in a clean off the mold.  If your property is not graded properly or gutters or roof materials are missing or not functioning properly they may not be equipped to handle the situation.  I would expect more of a short term solution from them. If you have a good company they may recommend to subcontract to the needed specialist.  In this case they would be working as your GC.

A GC might have the experience to correct underlying conditions but for anything he will not rip out he will tell you to get cleaned.  

Again depending upon the reasons for the mold a handyman or general repair person might be sufficient to the task.

Other possibilities might include a plumber where the plumbing is an issue. A foundation waterproofing company where water is coming through the foundations.  A roofer where water is comming from a bad roof or gutters ect.  A mason for repairs to brick, stone, block  or foundation walls.  A landscaper where property grades are going into the house.  Perhaps even a window company if water is coming through windows. An insulation or ventilation specialist where indoor air quality (humidity buildup) is an issue that cannot be resolved elsewhere.  Depending upon their capabilities eithor a repair person or GC might handle all of these specialities themselves or farm out the work.

Contact your ins rep but realize that the damage may not be covered as this type of damage may be specifically excluded by the policy.  

If you have a proper building supply house (yellow pages under lumber not home depot or loews) you might ask there for a recommendation or with your building department of the local town.  There are also quite a few companies on the web as well as companies that specialize in finding other contractors (service magic for example.)

Answer 3

There are mold removal specialists. I've seen repair trucks like that but I can't remember what the service is called. I'm sure your insurance people will know who to contact.

Answer 4

def a mold specialist. you need to remove any and all mold even behind the walls if necessary.  Are you a Doctor? Im trying to find a Doctor to treat people that have been exposed to toxic mold. If your interested please contact me through my profile. THanks

Answer 5

You can find one here:

http://www.bizzibid.com

Also, make sure you or someone seals the basement to protect against any more moisture issues.