Fighting a mold problem is an inconvenience and expense. Once you begin fighting a mold problem it take times time to resolve. You want to get on with your normal life and the problem can get old really quick. But, you know it must be done, and done right. How do you know when you’re finished with the clean-up? How can you be sure the problem won’t return?
In a DIY clean-up project, determining when mold has been sufficiently cleaned and controlled is difficult. The decision must be based on your observations, knowledge of the thoroughness of the clean-up, and what has been done (if anything) to fix the original cause of the mold.
A few questions to ask yourself are:
- Have you eliminated or fixed the moisture/dampness problem that caused the mold to grow?
- Have molded materials been removed from the site?
- Has the area been thoroughly cleaned (and dried) by you, or a professional?
- Has there been any evidence of regrowth in the area, or nearby?
- Have any visitors or occupants had any complaints of health or physical problems?
- Can you see or smell anything that would lead you to the conclusion that mold has not been eliminated or is recurring?
As mentioned previously, mold is a natural part of the environment and future treatment may be required. Repairing the cause of the problem and doing preventative check-ups and maintenance will help ensure the problem does not return after complete.