scope of work
What do you need done?
the guide
Act fast, then dry properly
Stop the water, shut off power to wet areas, and start drying quickly; mold can begin to grow within a day or two on wet materials. Proper drying uses moisture meters, air movers and dehumidifiers, with readings recorded until materials reach normal levels.
What affects the price
The source and category of the water, how much area and which materials are wet, how long they stayed wet, the amount of material to remove, mold or sewage contamination, and the rebuild afterwards.
Fix the cause of mold
Mold cleanup does not last unless the moisture source is fixed. Porous materials such as drywall and carpet pad that are moldy are usually removed, not cleaned, and the work area should be contained so spores are not spread.
Rules and paperwork in Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act requires most contractors who perform home improvements to register with the Attorney General’s office and to give you a written contract for any job over $500. The registration number belongs on the estimate and the contract — ask for it.
- In homes built before 1978, federal rules require firms that disturb painted surfaces to be EPA Lead-Safe Certified and to use lead-safe work practices.
- Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide license for this trade. Some municipalities register or license it locally, which is one reason to confirm requirements with your own municipality.
- Asbestos abatement in Pennsylvania must be done by contractors and workers certified by the Department of Labor & Industry. Materials that may contain asbestos, such as older floor tile, pipe insulation and some plaster or joint compound, should be tested before they are torn out.
Sources: Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General — Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act; U.S. EPA — Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule; Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry; Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry — Asbestos Occupations Accreditation and Certification Act. Rules change — confirm current requirements with the agency and with your municipality.
Questions to ask before you hire
- How will you document moisture readings until the job is dry?
- Will you test for asbestos or lead before removing materials in an older home?
- Do you work with my insurer, and who signs off on the scope?
- What is your Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor registration number?
Frequently asked questions
Is mold remediation licensed in my town?
Pennsylvania has no statewide mold remediation license, so ask about training, insurance and how the work area will be contained. Asbestos removal, however, does require state certification.
Will insurance cover water damage?
Policies generally cover sudden and accidental water, such as a burst pipe, but not gradual leaks, groundwater or flood unless you have the right endorsement or policy. Call your insurer before major work.
Do I need mold testing?
Visible mold usually does not need testing to be removed. Testing can help when you smell mold but cannot find it, or to confirm the cleanup worked.
the crew
Verified water damage & mold restoration contractors
We are still onboarding verified water damage & mold restoration contractors. You can submit a request and we will tell you honestly if we cannot match it — your details are never shared unless a verified contractor is available.
This trade typically requires a license or state registration. Contractors receive water damage & mold restoration requests only after we have reviewed theirs.