Do it Yourself Black Mold Remediation?

Monday, August 04, 2008 by Michael-Bains

Is it possible to perform your own mold remediation or abatement?  People think of "Black" mold, but remediation is a process for removing all types of microbial growth not just "black mold". 

In general, it is not a good idea to attempt to perform your own do-it-yourself mold remediation.  It is a complicated process that requires specialized knowledge, experience, proper personal protection equipment, and expensive tools and equipment.  In certain circumstances though, mold can successfully be remediated by a non-professional.  Most often, the deciding factor is the amount of mold to be remediated.  The less amount of visible mold, the more likely it can be cleaned by a homeowner or maintenance staff.

Before attempting do-it-yourself mold remediation, check with local and state authorities for regulations and read information available to you published by reputable sources.  Below are some useful links:

California Department of Health Services Indoor Air Quality Information Sheet:
Mold in My Home: What do I do? (http://www.cal-iaq.org/mold0107.htm)

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency:
Mold Resources Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings (A great guide for residential property as well) (http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/mold_remediation.html)

New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:
Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of Fungi in Indoor Environments (http://home2.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/epi/moldrpt1.shtml)

United States Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine:
Industrial Hygiene and Preventive Medicine Mold Assessment Guide, February 2002(http://chppm-www.apgea.army.mil/mold/TG278.pdf)