There’s a lot of misinformation surrounding mold, especially black mold. Some people have falsely been told that black mold is the only dangerous mold. This is untrue. Any mold has the potential to be dangerous for your health and your property. Because of this, all mold problems should be promptly addressed by professionals.

Every insurance policy is different. Professional mold removal is most likely to be covered by insurance when it is caused by sudden, covered events like burst pipes. Mold caused by neglect is typically not covered by policies.

Check your policy to learn more about your coverage.

If you are covered, we will coordinate with your insurance provider to ensure a seamless mold remediation process for you.

Small patches of mold on non-porous surfaces, such as tile, can sometimes be cleaned with household products and proper safety gear. However, larger infestations, mold on porous materials (like drywall or insulation), or hidden mold require professional remediation. DIY efforts often overlook the root cause, and improper cleaning methods can exacerbate the problem or spread spores to other areas.

Professional mold remediation involves more than just cleaning visible mold. Mold spores must be physically removed, and the area must be properly contained to prevent cross-contamination. Bleach and fogging treatments may kill mold, but do not remove health risks or prevent regrowth. At Octagon Cleaning & Restoration, we utilize IICRC-certified techniques and equipment to safely remove mold, ensuring your property is safe.

Most mold remediation jobs take 1–5 days, depending on the severity, size of the affected area, and whether demolition or reconstruction is needed. We’ll provide a detailed project timeline so you know what to expect.

remediation process includes identifying and fixing the source of moisture—whether it’s a leak, poor ventilation, or high humidity—to prevent future growth.

Common signs include musty or earthy odors, visible mold growth (often black, green, or white spots), bubbling paint, warped walls, and increased allergy or respiratory symptoms. You may also notice condensation or moisture issues in specific areas. Mold can also grow behind walls or under flooring, so if you suspect a problem, a professional inspection is recommended.

Often, yes. Mold tends to produce a distinct musty odor. However, not all mold has a noticeable smell, and some infestations can be completely hidden. If you notice a persistent musty smell and can’t locate the source, a mold inspection is a smart next step.

While not all mold is toxic, any mold growth can impact indoor air quality and pose health risks, especially for those with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is particularly concerning, but all mold should be assessed and remediated professionally to protect your health and prevent further damage.

Mold needs moisture, warmth, and organic material to grow. Common causes include:

• Leaking pipes or appliances
• Roof or window leaks
• Flooding or water damage
• High humidity or condensation
• Poor ventilation in areas like bathrooms or basements. Controlling moisture is the key to preventing mold.

No, Octagon Cleaning & Restoration does not conduct post-remediation testing, as it would be a conflict of interest. We recommend independent, third-party environmental testing companies to verify that mold has been completely removed and the affected areas meet industry air quality standards.

Certified mold inspectors use a combination of tools and techniques:

• Moisture meters to detect hidden water sources
• Air sampling and surface swabs to test for mold spores
• Visual inspections in hard-to-reach areas (like crawlspaces and attics). This comprehensive approach helps confirm both the presence and extent of mold contamination.

If the underlying moisture problem isn’t fixed, mold can return. Our mold remediation process includes identifying and addressing the source of moisture—whether it’s a leak, high humidity, or condensation—to prevent future growth.