In Texas, visible mold covering 25 contiguous square feet or more generally needs a licensed mold assessor and a separate licensed mold remediator. Smaller areas can be cleaned by unlicensed people, but the moisture source must be fixed either way.
If you need help, call (855) 727-0147 and we’ll connect you with an independent company that serves your area.
Why does mold follow fire and water damage?
Firefighting water, leaks and floods leave materials wet. The EPA says water-damaged areas should be dried within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth (EPA).
What does Texas law require?
| Rule | What it means |
|---|---|
| Minimum area | Unlicensed people may handle visible mold under 25 contiguous square feet. |
| Licensing | Larger jobs generally need TDLR-licensed mold professionals. |
| Separate roles | A licensee can’t do both the assessment and the remediation on the same project. |
| Information sheet | Licensees must give you a Consumer Mold Information Sheet before work starts. |
| Certificate | The remediator gives the owner a Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation after the work passes inspection. |
Can I clean mold myself?
The EPA says most people can clean a moldy area of less than about 10 square feet themselves (EPA). Texas law allows unlicensed cleanup below 25 contiguous square feet.
- Wear gloves, eye protection and a mask.
- Fix the moisture problem first.
- Remove moldy porous materials such as ceiling tiles and carpet.
- Don’t paint or caulk over mold. TDLR notes painting or bleaching over mold isn’t an effective fix.
- Don’t run the HVAC system if you suspect it is contaminated.
How do I check a mold license?
Search TDLR’s license database or call TDLR at (800) 803-9202. Check both the assessor and the remediator.
Why does the remediation certificate matter?
Keep it with your property records. TDLR notes that, when the rules are met, an insurer generally can’t make an adverse underwriting decision based on that earlier mold damage.
I rent. What can I do?
Tell your landlord in writing and keep a copy. TDLR doesn’t inspect homes for mold or order landlords to clean it up. Your city or county building official or local health department may be able to help.
Mold decision guide
| Your situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Small spot (under about 10 sq ft), moisture fixed | Clean it yourself with protection. |
| 10 to 25 contiguous sq ft | You may clean it yourself, but consider a professional. |
| 25 contiguous sq ft or more | Hire a licensed assessor, then a separate licensed remediator. |
| Mold in HVAC or after floodwater | Call professionals; don’t run the system. |
| You rent | Notify the landlord in writing. |
Need help now?
Call (855) 727-0147 and we’ll connect you with an independent restoration company that serves your area. The referral is free, and you decide whether to hire them.