Surviving hurricane season is a badge of honor for many residents of Oconee County and the surrounding communities. And while most of us worry about the damage that weather and natural disasters can rightfully have on our roof, siding, and foundation, many of us don’t recognize the harm that it can do inside our homes.
If you’re not careful, water damage can hit you with a double whammy. In addition to the damage it can wreak on your drywall, ceilings, and floors, it can also lead to something arguably more harmful: mold.
The unfortunate reality of mold is that it can often grow and fester behind existing structures for many years without notice.
Mold from water damage can also occur from marginal exposure to a leaking pipe or water that splashes inside your home from an open window. It’s no secret that the northwestern edge of South Carolina experiences more rainfall than much of the nation and also suffers from a humid subtropical climate that can create the perfect conditions for mold.
When mold strikes, it’s critical that you contract professional mold remediation services to protect your safety and ensure all mold on your property is properly removed.
This article will help South Carolina residents and businesses better understand the mold remediation process, how much they can expect to pay, and ways they can reduce costs to make remediation more affordable.
What is Mold Remediation?
Mold remediation aims to remove as much mold as possible to restore the home to normal and safe mold levels. Unfortunately, mold is just about everywhere, and when we discuss mold removal or remediation, the goal is to remove any toxic species of mold that may be actively harming your health or home.
Mold remediation service companies use a number of tools at their disposal to help remove mold and control nearby moisture, including air scrubbers, HEPA filters, and chemical cleaners.
Unlike simple mold removal, remediation aims to address the root cause of mold growth, which involves several steps from inspection to containment and filtration.
Steps of Mold Remediation
- Inspection and Assessment: A professional mold inspection will be performed to identify what types of mold exist and the extent of their presence. This often involves taking air and surface samples and getting them tested by a laboratory.
- Containment: Negative air pressure systems and plastic sheathing will be placed over affected areas to prevent mold spores from spreading elsewhere on the property.
- Filtration: Air scrubbers and HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are deployed to remove airborne mold spores and improve indoor air quality during remediation.
- Removal of Affected Materials: Any damaged surfaces, such as drywall and carpeting, that cannot be cleaned will be removed and disposed of.
- Cleaning and Disinfection: Non-porous and semi-porous materials are cleaned using antimicrobial and antifungal treatments to kill remaining mold spores. Special chemicals and industrial-strength cleaning agents are used to eliminate any lingering mold growth.
- Restoration and Prevention: Once the toxic mold is properly removed, it’s time for restoration. This may involve replacing drywall, flooring, or other structural components. To prevent future mold growth, professionals may recommend dehumidifiers, improved ventilation, and waterproofing solutions.
How Does Mold Remediation Differ from Removal?
Put simply, mold remediation and mold removal are the same process. It is often referred to as remediation because removing all mold inside the property is impossible. Remediation ensures that mold levels return to safe levels and do not present any threat to property owners or their properties.
How Much Does Mold Remediation Cost?
The cost of mold remediation varies greatly depending on several factors, such as:
- The size of the affected area
- The location of the mold
- Any structural damage or repairs that need to be made
- Disposal of affected materials
On average, mold remediation costs typically range from $10 to $25 per square foot, with the national average hovering around $2,365 in 2025 (Angi).
This cost greatly increases depending on the size of the affected area, with whole-house remediation services costing tens of thousands of dollars. Smaller areas, such as basements, bathrooms, and attics, will generally be lower in costs, ranging from $500 to $4,000, depending on your contractor.
Does My Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Mold Remediation?
One way to offset the cost of your mold remediation is to submit a claim with your insurance company.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover mold remediation costs for what is considered a “covered peril.” This contingency covers any mold damage as a result of sudden or accidental damage. Covered scenarios may include sudden leaks from a busted pipe or broken appliance. Mold remediation and water restoration are often covered under flood insurance policies for hurricanes or excessive rainfall.
Thankfully, companies like Palmetto State Restorations work directly with insurance companies to help file claims and negotiate better deals so you save money out of pocket.
Tips for Property Owners to Reduce Mold Remediation Costs
While mold remediation is a necessary service, it can be quite expensive, depending on the extent of the problem.
Outside of exceptional circumstances and accidents covered by your insurance policy, you may have to pay for much of the mold remediation services out of pocket.
For this reason, it’s key for homeowners to act quickly. Since mold is airborne and can spread across homes, enlisting home remediation services early can save you thousands of dollars in potential repairs and mitigation costs.
Likewise, fixing any leaks or moisture issues promptly will reduce the risk of mold in the first place, thus circumventing the need for remediation.
Can I DIY Mold Removal? Why Hire Professionals for Mold Remediation?
Speaking of lowering costs, one way that homeowners may attempt to offset the cost of mold remediation is to perform the task themselves. However, there are a number of issues with DIY mold removal that could be costly to your health and wallet:
- Incomplete Removal: DIY methods may only remove surface mold while missing hidden mold growth behind walls, ceilings, or floors.
- Health Risks: Disturbing mold without proper protective equipment can release spores into the air, causing respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
- Improper Use of Cleaning Agents: Household cleaners like bleach may not be effective on porous surfaces, allowing mold to return quickly.
- Lack of Professional Equipment: Professionals use HEPA air scrubbers, industrial-strength antimicrobial treatments, and moisture meters to ensure complete remediation.
- Potential Structural Damage: Without proper knowledge, DIY mold removal efforts can result in unnecessary damage to walls, flooring, or HVAC systems.
- Increased Costs in the Long Run: If mold is not removed correctly the first time, it can spread and become a more expensive problem to fix later.
Don’t take the risk! If you want reliable mold remediation at a fair price in Oconee County or the surrounding areas, contact the experts at Palmetto State Restoration for a free quote. All technicians are IICRC-certified (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) to deliver the most thorough remediation services for any mold found on your property.
FAQs
How can I tell if I have mold in my home?
Common signs of mold include musty odors, visible discoloration on walls or ceilings, and increased allergy symptoms such as sneezing and itchy eyes. Professional mold inspections can confirm its presence.
How long does mold remediation take?
The timeline depends on the severity of the mold problem. Small cases may take a day or two, while extensive remediation can take up to a week or more.
What are the health risks of mold exposure?
Mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, headaches, and skin irritation. Individuals with asthma or weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms.