Can you stay home during mold remediation? The answer depends on the work area, access, and your household’s health needs. The good news is you don’t have to live with this problem. Mold remediation companies can repair your water issues, clean the affected area, and offer helpful suggestions to reduce the chance of mold returning.
However, there are many people who wonder whether or not they’ll be allowed to stay in their homes during the remediation process. Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Every circumstance is unique.
In most cases, the safest option is for you and your family to leave the property until the process is complete. In fact, many companies prefer that occupants aren’t present during remediation. This is especially true if there are multiple rooms affected. Let’s take a quick look at what factors can determine whether or not you should stay in your home during mold remediation.
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The Areas Affected
When considering whether or not you should stay during mold remediation, you need to consider which rooms are affected. Specifically, you need to think about which rooms are the most essential and how it will impact your daily life. For instance, if remediation will be taking place in your only bathroom, this will present a significant challenge to you and your family. In this instance, it’s best that you find temporary housing until the crew completes the project.
However, if the kitchen is affected, you may be able to stay in your home if you can find workarounds. Perhaps you can set up a microwave and mini fridge in a spare room while the work is being completed. Just keep in mind that though this may work for a couple of days, if the project takes longer than this the inconvenience may be more than you can handle.
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The Scope of the Work
It’s important that you consider how extensive the work will be. Crews may finish smaller projects in a short time, depending on the conditions. This means that the disruption will be minimal. However, if there’s a lot of work to be done, remediation can take weeks to complete. And if you choose to stay it could lead to a significant amount of stress.
There are instances in which every area of the home may be affected. This will require you to pack up most or all of your belongings. Staying in your home during this particular process isn’t practical.
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The Amount of Debris
Most companies do a thorough job of containing the affected area. This helps to ensure that the rest of the house isn’t filled with the dust that comes along with remediation. But during reconstruction, the debris can be an issue. This is particularly true if the occupants decided to stay during the process. -
Sensitivity to Noise
What a lot of homeowners don’t realize is that there’s a lot of noise involved in the mold remediation process. Companies use equipment such as dehumidifiers, air machines, fans, and more. These pieces of equipment are usually necessary for containment.
It’s important to consider how sensitive you are to noise. Do not turn off containment or drying equipment without the remediation team’s approval. If you’re easily disturbed by certain sounds, then you can save yourself a lot of stress and frustration by leaving the property until remediation is complete.
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Sensitivity to Temperatures
Another element that’s often overlooked when it comes to mold remediation is the temperature. Sometimes the HVAC system needs to be cleaned. And in these instances, the HVAC will be shut off until the project is complete. Also, there’s a lot of equipment in use and this can make your home even warmer. When temperatures rise to excess, the occupants will be extremely uncomfortable. -
Sensitivity to Mold
Consider health needs before deciding whether to stay home during mold remediation. Mold can trigger symptoms or worsen asthma in some people. Disturbing contaminated materials may release particles, so keep household members away from the work area.
Discuss the occupancy plan with the remediation team. People with asthma, other lung conditions, or weakened immune systems should also seek advice from a health professional. The CDC mold and health guidance explains why responses to mold exposure vary. Feeling well before cleanup does not establish that remaining nearby will be suitable.
Plan Before You Stay Home During Mold Remediation
Before you stay home during mold remediation, confirm which rooms you can use and how you will avoid the work zone. Ask who will tell you when areas are ready for normal use. Arrange temporary housing if safe access, essential rooms, or comfortable temperatures are unavailable.
For help planning the work, contact our mold remediation team. Share your household needs early so the crew can explain the proposed schedule and access restrictions. Keep a backup plan in case the work takes longer than expected.