Mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours on wet materials. In Texas, visible mold affecting 25 contiguous square feet or more must generally be handled by TDLR licensed professionals. Fix the moisture first, dry everything and do not paint over mold.
Fix the moisture first
Mold needs moisture. Stop the leak, remove standing water and dry the area. Cleaning without drying brings mold back. See structural drying and mold remediation after water damage in Houston.
Texas licensing rules
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation licenses mold assessors and remediators under Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1958. Visible mold under 25 contiguous square feet can generally be cleaned by people who are not licensed, but larger projects require licensed professionals and notification. Rules can change, so check TDLR.
Assessment and remediation are separate
Texas rules generally keep the assessor and the remediator for the same project separate. The assessor writes a protocol and checks clearance. The remediator does the work.
What not to do
Do not paint over mold, do not use bleach on porous materials, and do not run the HVAC system if mold is present. Wear protection if you disturb it.
When to call
Call a professional if mold covers a large area, returns after cleaning, follows sewage or floodwater, or affects someone with health concerns. Start at Houston water damage restoration to be connected.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check a mold license?
Use the TDLR license search.
Does insurance cover mold?
Often only if it results from a covered water loss, and limits may apply.
What humidity should I keep?
The EPA suggests indoor humidity below 60 percent, ideally 30 to 50 percent.
Sources and further reading
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation: Mold Assessors and Remediators
- EPA: Mold Cleanup in Your Home
Related services
Mold Remediation After Water Damage
Containment, removal and cleaning when mold follows a water loss.
Learn more
Structural Drying and Dehumidification
Air movers, dehumidifiers and moisture mapping until the building is dry.
Learn more
Mold Inspection and Testing
Moisture checks and licensed mold assessment after water damage.
Learn moreGeneral information, not legal, insurance or engineering advice. Water Damage Restoration Houston does not perform the work.