Find the Best Mold Removal in Indianapolis, IN

What causes mold in Indianapolis?

Mold thrives in warm, humid conditions, so areas in your home with poor ventilation and high moisture levels are at risk for mold growth. Common causes a for mold growth in Indianapolis include:

• Leaking pipes: Slow leaks behind walls or under sinks can lead to hidden mold.
• Poor ventilation: Clothes dryers that are not hooked up to proper ventilation release high amounts of heat and moisture into the air, creating prime conditions for mold growth. Bathrooms without adequate ventilation are also high-risk areas for infestations.
• Leaking foundations: Many homes have cracked or leaking foundations that allow water to seep into basements, creating conditions in which mold thrives.
• Roof damage: Leaking roofs allow water to leak into your attic, creating a risk for mold growth.
• Condensation in air ducts: Mold often grows inside your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

Signs of a mold problem in Indianapolis

Visible mold is easily detected, but hidden mold is more difficult to identify. Some early warning signs of a mold problem include a musty or rotten odor, cracking or bubbling paint or wallpaper, warped drywall, water stains and rotting wood.

Mold often grows:

• Under cabinets
• Behind baseboards
• Inside drywall
• In carpet padding
• Behind wallpaper
• In closets, if damp clothing is stored inside
• Behind furniture or inside a bookshelf, particularly if against an outside wall
• In the drip pan under the refrigerator

If your home has recently flooded, it’s possible you have mold growth. Many mold remediation companies perform inspections for free or at an affordable price.

Mildew also grows in humid conditions but can be differentiated from mold by its color and texture. Mildew is gray or white with a fluffy or powdery texture, and mold is usually green or black with a fuzzy or slimy texture. Mildew only grows on the surface and can be removed without professional help.

What are the health risks of mold exposure?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to mold can cause symptoms that resemble a common cold, including nasal and sinus congestion, watery eyes, sore throat and coughing. Mold can also trigger asthma attacks and cause skin rashes.

Black mold, also known as toxic mold, can be even more hazardous, especially to infants, older Indianapolis residents and people with respiratory problems. Many companies use special isolation techniques when removing black mold to protect technicians from exposure and prevent the spores from spreading through the house.

How much does mold removal cost in Indianapolis?

The average cost for mold removal in Indianapolis is around $2,250, but the cost varies widely depending on multiple factors, including:

• the size of the infestation
• the type of mold
• if the mold has caused structural damage that must be repaired
• whether the area with mold is easily accessible
• whether special techniques are needed
• whether the company needs to take measures to prevent future mold growth, such as installing dehumidifiers or sealing the foundation

Severe infestations that require whole home mold-remediation and repairing structural elements can cost $30,000 or more.

Does homeowners insurance pay for mold removal?

Homeowners insurance pays for mold removal if the mold is caused by a covered peril, such as a burst pipe or water damage caused by putting out a fire.

Mold caused by natural flooding or high humidity is generally not covered by homeowners insurance. Speak to your insurance provider to see what your policy covers.

Choosing a mold removal company in Indianapolis

If you have a mold problem, it’s crucial to find a company you trust to deal with the issue thoroughly. Customer reviews are an excellent source of information — if a company performs shoddy work or cuts corners, that’s usually reflected by poor ratings.

When contacting mold removal companies, consider asking questions such as:

• Do you provide free inspections?
• What is your process for mold removal?
• Are your technicians certified by a professional organization?
• Are you licensed to repair structural damage?
• Do you guarantee your work?

Indiana does not require a license for mold removal, but many mold remediation companies are certified by professional organizations such as Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP), National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI).