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Step 1
Find the source of the moisture and fix it first. Until the cause of the mold or mildew has been removed, hiring a remediation company is just a waste of money. Be sure to check under floor boards to make sure that supports are not rotting and inside drywall to make sure the mold has not gotten into your walls.
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Step 2
Start with your insurance company. Many insurance companies have preferred contractors that they have worked with successfully in the past. Getting a list of potential contractors from the insurance company is much less dangerous that simply choosing names from a phone book. Another good option for locating a trustworthy mold remediation company is to ask friends for references. If you live in a particularly wet region, friends may have experience with local companies.
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Step 3
Check your state license requirements. Many local municipalities and states have specialized licenses for mold remediation because the debris must be properly disposed of. Ask any contractors you are considering using about their licenses.
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Step 4
Demand proof of insurance. Your mold and mildew remediation company should have a certificate of insurance guaranteeing its work. If a company can't or won't provide proof of insurance, find another company.
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Step 5
Get several written estimates. Watch the way that the company's inspector prepares the estimate. Did he check the floor boards, remove some of the dry wall to check inside your walls or remove some of the ceiling to check underlying damage to your roof? Make sure that the inspection is thorough and identifies all the sites that will need to be treated.
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Step 6
Ask if the estimate simply involves the removal of the mold and mildew or if it will include the repair of your home. Some companies only remove the mold and force you to find another contractor to rebuild the damaged portions of your home.
