Mold clean up San Francisco

EPA Checklist for Mold Remediation

Investigate and evaluate moisture and mold problems

• Assess size of moldy area (square feet)
• Consider the possibility of hidden mold
• Clean up small mold problems and fix moisture problems before they become large problems
• Select remediation manager for medium or large size mold problem
• Investigate areas associated with occupant complaints
• Identify source(s) or cause of water or moisture problem(s)
• Note type of water-damaged materials (wallboard, carpet, etc.)
• Check inside air ducts and air handling unit
• Throughout process, consult qualified professional if necessary or desired

Communicate with building occupants at all stages of process, as appropriate

• Designate contact person for questions and comments about medium or large scale remediation as needed

Plan Remediation

• Adapt or modify remediation guidelines to fit your situation; use professional judgment
• Plan to dry wet, non-moldy materials within 48 hours to prevent mold growth (see Table 1 and text)
• Select cleanup methods for moldy items (see Table 2 and text)
• Select Personal Protection Equipment – protect remediators (see Table 2and text)
• Select containment equipment – protect building, occupants (see Table 2and text)
• Select remediation personnel who have the experience and training needed to implement the remediation plan and use Personal Protective Equipment and containment as appropriate

Remediate moisture and mold problems

• Fix moisture problem, implement repair plan and/or maintenance plan
• Dry wet, non-moldy materials within 48 hours to prevent mold growth
• Clean and dry mold materials (see Table 2 and text)
• Discard moldy porous items that can’t be cleaned (see Table 2 and text)

Questions to Consider Before Remediating

• Are there existing moisture problems in the building?
• Have building materials been wet more than 48 hours?  (See Table 2and text)
• Are there hidden sources of water or is the humidity too high (high enough to cause condensation)?
• Are building occupants reporting musty or moldy odors?
• Are building occupants reporting health problems?
• Are building materials or furnishings visibly damaged?
• Has maintenance been delayed or the maintenance plan been altered?
• Has the building been recently remodeled or has building use changed?
• Is consultation with medical or health professionals indicated?