Start here
Quick, low-risk steps
- Stop or identify the moisture source when safe.
- Avoid disturbing a large or hidden affected area.
- Record where and when moisture appears.
- Use Florida's official license lookup to verify any professional you consider.
- Compare containment, removal, cleaning, verification, and rebuilding in any remediation plan.
When DIY Cleanup May Be Appropriate
The EPA suggests that you can clean up mold yourself if the affected area is small—typically under 10 square feet—and the moisture problem has been resolved. This often applies to minor spots on bathroom tiles or around a window that leaked but is now fixed.
Before you start, make sure no one in the home has symptoms like coughing or wheezing that could be related to mold. If anyone has a medical vulnerability, consult a clinician before proceeding.
- The mold is on a hard, non-porous surface like tile or glass.
- The moisture source is identified and permanently corrected.
- No occupants have respiratory symptoms or immune concerns.
- You have proper cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment.
Signs You Need a Professional
If the mold covers a large area, is hidden inside walls or ceilings, or returns after cleaning, you likely need a professional. The EPA recommends professional assessment when the mold area exceeds about 10 square feet or if you suspect HVAC contamination.
Also call a pro if the water damage came from sewage or floodwater, as this introduces bacteria and other hazards. A Florida-licensed mold assessor can determine the scope, and a licensed remediator can safely remove the mold.
- Mold covers more than a small patch (roughly 10 square feet).
- You smell mold but cannot see it, indicating hidden growth.
- The moisture involved sewage, floodwater, or contaminated water.
- Mold is inside your HVAC system or ductwork.
- An occupant has asthma, allergies, or a weakened immune system.
The Role of Florida Licensing
In Florida, mold assessors and remediators must be licensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Always verify a license before hiring. You can use the state's online license lookup tool to check that a professional is in good standing.
A licensed assessor writes a mold assessment report and, if needed, a remediation protocol. A licensed remediator follows that protocol to clean up the mold. They cannot do both jobs on the same project to avoid conflict of interest.
- Use Florida's official license lookup to verify any professional.
- Mold assessors and remediators must have separate licenses.
- A company cannot perform both assessment and remediation on the same job.
- Ask for the license number and check it before signing a contract.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
When you talk to a professional, ask about their specific plan for containment, removal, cleaning, and verification. A good remediator will explain how they will prevent mold spores from spreading during the work.
Also ask about post-remediation verification. This is a separate step where an assessor confirms the mold is gone. Make sure this is included in your scope of work and performed by an independent assessor.
- What containment methods will you use to prevent cross-contamination?
- How will you verify that the mold has been removed?
- Will you provide a post-remediation verification report from an independent assessor?
- What is excluded from your scope of work (e.g., rebuilding, contents)?
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Is the moisture source identified and fixed?
- Is the affected area less than about 10 square feet?
- Is the mold on a hard, non-porous surface?
- Are there any occupant health concerns?
- Is there any hidden mold or HVAC involvement?
- Did the water damage involve sewage or floodwater?
- Have you verified the professional's Florida license?
- Does the scope include containment, removal, cleaning, and verification?
- Will post-remediation verification be done by an independent assessor?
- Are rebuilding and content handling included or excluded?
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
Can I clean mold myself if it's just a small spot?
Yes, if the area is small (under about 10 square feet), the moisture source is fixed, and no one has health issues. Follow EPA guidelines for safe cleanup.
When should I call a professional for mold?
Call a professional if the mold covers a large area, is hidden, keeps returning, or if the water damage involved sewage. Also call if anyone in the home has health concerns.
How do I check a mold professional's license in Florida?
Use the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's online license lookup. Verify the license is active and matches the service you need (assessor or remediator).
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- Mold CleanupU.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Moisture control, cleanup considerations, and professional-escalation context.
- Mold control and preventionOccupational Safety and Health Administration
Workplace mold-control principles; not a remote health or species diagnosis.
- Mold-related services licensingFlorida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Current Florida license and role lookup; verify immediately before referral.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.