How Much Does Mold Remediation Cost? (2024 Guide)

Typical cost range: $1,500 – $9,000

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Written by Angela Bunt + 1 other Reviewed by Mark Howey Updated 03/01/2024

While most homeowners are concerned about black mold removal, all types of mold can lower air quality, create unpleasant smells, and cause health problems. Mold is generally a surface issue but can indicate the presence of decay fungi, which causes structural damage to homes.

Professional mold remediation typically costs $1,500–$9,000 with an average cost of $3,500. While you can clean small, visible mold problems yourself, it’s safer to call in professionals for large or complex infestations.

Signs That You Need Mold Remediation?

Visible black, green, or white mold on your home’s surfaces is an obvious sign that you need mold removal services. Here are some other indicators.

Musty smell
Recent water damage
Spots, speckles, or fuzzy “island” growths on surfaces
Unexpected or unseasonal allergy symptoms or other health issues
Warping, peeling, or discolored paint or wallpaper

What Is the Average Cost of Mold Remediation?

A small mold infestation can cost as little as $500–$1,000 to remove, but professional mediation for large problems can cost up to $30,000. Here are the primary factors that determine where your project will fall within that range.

Mold location: The more difficult it is to get to and remove the mold, the more the project will cost.
Size of affected area: The greater the size of the affected area, the higher the price.
Mold type: Certain mold and fungus types are more dangerous and difficult to remove, thus increasing prices.
Labor: About 60% of the price of professional remediation efforts goes toward labor.

Cost by Mold Location

The location of the mold within your house has a large impact on cost, especially as it applies to how hidden or widespread the problem is.

Location	Average Mold Removal Cost
Attic	$1,000–$9,000
Basement	$500–$4,000
Bathroom	$500–$1,500
Crawl space	$500–$2,000
Drywall	$1,000–$12,000
HVAC system	$3,000–$10,000
Whole house	$10,000–$30,000

The cost to remove attic mold varies widely because of the nature of the space. Attics are large and lesser-used spaces, so you might not notice a roof leak until there’s visible mold. If the spot is small and the attic is easily accessible, removing it could cost as little as $1,000. However, the cost could be as high as $9,000 for extensive mold in cramped or difficult-to-access attics. If the mold is also within or behind the insulation, you’ll have to remove it, increasing the total price.

Basements have high humidity levels, so they’re susceptible to mold, particularly in summer. These rooms are similar to attics in that they can be very easy or difficult to work on, depending on accessibility. Basement mold may cost $500–$4,000 to remove.

Bathrooms can be havens for mold because of moist air and the potential for sinks, showers, and toilets to leak. Visible surface mold is relatively inexpensive to remove and may cost no more than $500. If there’s a hidden plumbing leak and contractors need to tear out cabinets and fixtures, the cost can run into the many thousands.

Mold in foundation crawl spaces is very common for the same reason it tends to grow in basements. However, crawl spaces are typically much smaller, so the potential cost is lower, ranging from $500–$2,000. The cost can be much higher for limited-access crawl spaces.

Drywall is the most common material on interior walls in homes built since World War II. This material is porous and has a proper backing so it can retain moisture. The drywall itself may be easy to repair, but water damage and mold on drywall are often indicators of plumbing leaks. Replacing moldy drywall can cost $1,000–$12,000. The cost will be on the higher end of the spectrum if the mold has been there for a while or grew through the drywall from the back, as this will require removing the drywall and possibly the framing behind it.

Costs for removing mold from an HVAC system depend on the system you have. Mold removal from the exterior of radiant heating systems is the least expensive at $1,500–$3,000. Furnace and air handler systems have more extensive air ducts and thus cost more, about $3,000–$5,000. Central air conditioners are the most expensive to remediate because they constantly remove moisture from the air and also have a large number of vents and ducts. These can cost up to $10,000 to clean.

Whole-house remediation is typically only necessary after a catastrophic event such as a flood or a hurricane, and it can cost anywhere from $10,000–$30,000, depending on your home’s size and the extent of the damage.

Cost by Size of Affected Area

Professional mold remediation generally costs $10–$30 per square foot.

Size of Affected Area (in Square Feet)	Cost Range
50	$500–$1,500
100	$1,000–$3,000
150	$1,500–$4,500
200	$2,000–$6,000
500	$5,000–$15,000
1,000	$10,000–$30,000

Cost by Type of Mold

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t distinguish between mold species in its recommendations for mold cleanup. However, some types are more difficult to remove than others, so the cost of mold removal is determined by species to some extent.

Type	Removal Cost
Alternaria	$700–$6,000
Aspergillus penicillium	$700–$6,000
Aureobasidium	$1,500–$5,000
Chaetomium	$600–$5,000
Cladosporium	$700–$6,000
Fusarium	$800–$8,000
Penicillium	$1,500–$5,000
Serpula lacrymans	$800–$7,000
Stachybotrys chartarum (black)	$800–$7,000
Trichoderma (green)	$700–$6,000
Ulocladium	$1,500–$5,000

Learn more about each type of mold in the dropdown sections below:

The mold of the genus Alternaria can trigger hay fever or allergy symptoms. Alternaria mold secretes toxins, but the effects of those toxins on humans and domestic animals isn’t well known. It falls within the average range to mediate at about $700–$6,000.

Aspergillus mold species can directly infect human skin, contaminate food, and cause respiratory infections. The most common is A. fumigatus, which can potentially cause pneumonia or a group of diseases called aspergillosis. This is most common in immunocompromised people. Aspergiullus removal costs about $700–$6,000.

Aureobasidium mold such as A. pullulans and A. melanogenum, thrive in freshwater and can irritate the respiratory system, even leading to a condition known as “humidifier lung.” These molds are described as black and yeast-like. They tend to grow slowly, so they’ll cost about $1,500–$5,000 to remove.

There are many species of Chaetomium mold and most can cause infections or allergic reactions. C. atrobrunneum is a fungus that’s especially dangerous to people with compromised immune systems, as it attacks the central nervous system. This species is dark gray to black and has a fuzzy appearance. It costs $600 to $5,000 to remove.

Although Cladosporium molds are some of the most common, they rarely cause health problems in humans and can be removed for $700–$6,000. They don’t produce toxins but do produce volatile organic compounds that create a musty odor and irritate allergy symptoms.

Fusarium is a large family of molds and fungi. Most are harmless, but some can cause infections in the nails and eyes. A few species may cause severe body-wide infections in immunocompromised people. This type is more expensive to remove—between $800 and $8,000—because it spreads so quickly.

Some types of Penicillium mold create the important antibiotic compound penicillin, and others are used in cheesemaking. When Penicillium infests your home, though, it can spread rapidly through the air, even in low-humidity environments. It costs between $1,500 and $5,000 to remediate,

S. lacrymans is a type of fungus that causes dry rot in timber, where it reproduces rapidly and breaks down wood fibers. It damages structures more than it does people, but that’s all the more reason to remove it from your home quickly. Removal costs are slightly higher than average at $800–$7,000 because of how thoroughly the mold can spread through wooden structures.

Many mold species are black, but when most people think of “black mold,” they think of S. chartarum. It can grow easily in drywall and wallpaper, making it one of the most common mold species in water-damaged buildings. It doesn’t release spores unless the mold is disturbed, so tenting the area and wearing respiratory protection is important. This is why S. chartarum costs a little more to remove, at $800–$7,000.

Trichoderma fungi are fast-growing and may produce a sweet odor. The most common household species is T. longibrachiatum, a mold that starts out white and turns green-gray over time. It typically only causes health problems in people with allergies or lowered immune responses. It can be removed for $700–$6,000,

Most Ulocladium species infect plants or cause food to spoil. However, some can trigger hay fever symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes. Ulocladium typically costs an average of $1,500–$5,000 to remove.

Labor Cost

The above prices apply to hiring professional mold removal companies. Labor accounts for about 60% of the total cost, with materials and the cost of specialized air-handlers accounting for the other 40%. True mold remediation services involve much more than simple cleaning and removal—the area must also be sealed off to prevent mold spores from spreading.

What Are Additional Cost Considerations for Mold Remediation?

The following factors also contribute to mold remediation costs.

Repairing Damage

The mold remediation process typically doesn’t end when the mold is removed. Homeowners must then repair the damage and replace any removed materials, which factors into the total project cost. Here are some typical costs for repairs after a mold infestation.

Cabinets: $120–$1,425 per linear foot
Carpeting: $3.25–$10.25 per square foot
Drywall: $50–$80 per square foot
Hardwood flooring: $6–$18 per square foot

Preventive Measures

Once the mold issue has been resolved, it’s wise to take steps to prevent it from returning. If you haven’t fixed the source of the moisture, the mold will come back. Here are some preventive measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Reduce humidity in your home: Try to keep humidity levels between 30% and 50% by using your air conditioner or dehumidifier in summer and thoroughly ventilating kitchens and bathrooms.
Fix leaks immediately: Check pipes, roofs, and windows for leaks and fix them promptly.
Remove carpet from humid areas: Carpeting in the bathroom or basement can hold onto moisture, causing unseen damage beneath.
Dry and fix water damage: If your home experiences water damage from a flood or severe storm, dry and clean it as soon as possible. Ensure everything is dry before painting or caulking.
Schedule a mold inspection: If you’re worried the problem has come back, a professional mold inspector can point out trouble spots and recommend solutions. Inspections can cost $450–$800.

Mold Testing

Most of the time, there’s no need to test or sample to see which species of mold you have. All types of mold are potentially harmful, and although some produce toxins, the CDC says all mold should be removed with equal care. If you want the mold tested because you’re experiencing specific health problems, it can cost $50–$700, depending on the test’s extensiveness.

Get a quote: Get your quote for mold remediation today

Should You DIY vs. Professional Mold Remediation?

If the surface area is less than 10 square feet and you don’t have asthma or other sensitivities, the EPA says that it’s fine to remove mold yourself. Here’s what you can expect from both DIY and professional mold removal.

Professional Mold Remediation

If you’re hiring a professional, particularly if the problem is severe, look for a mold remediation specialist. They’ll typically take the following steps to minimize health risks to you and your family.

Mold remediators seal off the area with plastic sheeting and zippered doors, using filtration devices and negative air pressure to prevent the spread of spores during work.
Air scrubbers fitted with HEPA filters clean the air as mold-damaged materials are destroyed and removed.
If any of the remaining cleaned surfaces are still actively wet, they’ll dry them with dehumidifiers and fans. Any leaks will need to be fixed for this to be effective.
Contractors clean all hard surfaces with antifungal and antimicrobial cleaners. Soft surfaces and porous materials must usually be thrown away.
If the musty smell persists, remediators will use a dry fogger to remove it.

The benefit of hiring a mold remediation company is that you know the job will be done thoroughly, quickly, and safely. True remediation involves more than just removing visible mold, and pros know where to look to see if the problem has spread to hidden areas. The downside is price, as professional mold removal usually costs thousands of dollars.

DIY Mold Remediation

Here’s what the EPA and CDC recommend if you want to remove mold yourself.

Fix leaks or other sources of water damage first.
Remove standing water with a shop vac and open all doors and windows.
Protect your mouth and nose with a high-filtration mask, such as an N95. Wear gloves and goggles to protect your eyes and skin.
Scrub hard surfaces with a cleanser. You can use bleach diluted at a ratio of 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water but never mix bleach and ammonia.
Dispose of soft or porous materials such as drywall, carpeting, or ceiling tiles. If the mold has spread to an expensive or sentimental soft item, take it to a restoration specialist.
Dry all surfaces quickly after cleaning.

Cleaning up mold and mildew is time-consuming and the problem may be bigger than you thought. Moldy areas bigger than about 3-feet-by-3-feet should usually be removed and cleaned by professionals. Additionally, consult a professional if you think any mold has gotten into your HVAC system before turning it on and circulating mold around. The HVAC system isn’t something you can clean by yourself.

How To Hire a Professional for Mold Remediation

You may need to ask more detailed questions than you would another type of contractor when choosing a mold remediation specialist.

Do your contractors have mold remediation certification or other specialty abatement licensing?

Are you insured with mold-specific insurance?

Are inspection and post-remedial testing included in the cost?

How will you protect the rest of my home from mold spores spreading due to the work?

Which steps of the process are included in the contract?

How much, if any, restoration work will you do after the abatement is completed?

How long will this project take? Can or should my family stay in the house during that time?

How To Save Money on Mold Remediation

Here are some ways to save money on mold remediation, even if you hire a professional.

Prevent mold growth by repairing leaks and drying water damage quickly.
Contact your insurance company to see whether your homeowners insurance covers mold removal, particularly after a catastrophic event.
Do as much of the cosmetic restoration work, such as painting and tiling, as you can after the removal is complete.
Request cost estimates from at least three local specialists. Be wary of bids that charge substantially more or less than others.

Our Conclusion

You can and should clean small areas of mold yourself with some protective gear and good cleansers. However, it’s best to hire a mold remediation specialist for large mold problems, mold in the walls, or if you or someone else in your home has respiratory problems. Remediators know how to remove mold-damaged building materials without spreading spores, helping keep you and your family safe.

Get a quote: Get your quote for mold remediation today

FAQs About Mold Remediation

Is it expensive to get rid of mold?

Getting rid of mold is inexpensive if you do it yourself. You’ll simply need to buy bleach, gloves, goggles, and a mask. Professional mold remediation is more expensive, averaging $3,500. However, this is the best option for extensive mold problems.

Can I stay in my house during mold remediation?

You can typically stay in your home while mold removal specialists work. They take steps to seal off the infected areas so that mold spores don’t spread to the rest of your home.

Can I remediate mold myself?

You can get rid of small, visible mold problems yourself as long as you wear protective gear. The EPA recommends hiring professionals for areas larger than 10 square feet.

Is it possible to remove all the mold in my house?

According to the EPA, no house is ever completely free from mold or spores. The objective is to get levels similar to or lower than the ambient levels outside of the home. Mold remediation can remove enough of it that it won’t cause air quality or health problems.

How long does mold remediation last?

If mold remediation is done correctly and the source of the moisture that caused the problem is removed, the mold shouldn’t come back.

How can I tell if my house has mold?

Here are some signs you may have mold.

Visible splotches on walls, carpets, furniture, or clothes
Musty or rotten odor
Allergy or asthma symptoms
Bubbling wallpaper or paint
Water damage

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