Water Damage: Mold & Salt Water Inundation

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MOLD REMEDIATION*

*Taken from FEMA Recovery Division Fact Sheet 9580.100, November 7, 2006

DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY OF MOLD REMEDIATION COSTS

• • The cost of mold sampling, both pre-and post-remediation, may be eligible for reimbursement, provided there is evidence prior to remediation to indicate the existence of disaster-related mold.
• • The cost of mold sampling which reveals no presence of disaster- related mold is not eligible for reimbursement.
• • Costs to perform eligible remediation—either through force account or a contractor —may be eligible for reimbursement. Contractor costs are subject to the contract procurement requirements in 44 CFR 13.36. • The following remediation activities may be eligible under Category B:
  • > Wet vacuuming, damp wiping or HEPA vacuuming of the interior space.
  • > Removal of contaminated gypsum board, plaster (or similar wall finishes), carpet or floor finishes, and ceilings or permanent light fixtures.
  • > Cleaning of contaminated heating and ventilation (including ductwork), plumbing, and air conditioning systems, or other mechanical equipment.
• • If an applicant fails to take reasonable measures to prevent the spread of mold contamination to a facility, the rehabilitation and repair of the additional contaminated area will not be eligible for federal assistance.
• • If an applicant can document and justify why reasonable measures were not taken to prevent further contamination to a facility from mold, or why reasonable measures taken were insufficient to prevent further damage, remediation activities may be eligible for reimbursement. Examples of extenuating circumstances may include:
  • > Disruption of power.
  • > Facility remained underwater.
  • > Inability to access the facility due to the disaster; i.e., debris blocking access routes and facility.
  • > Facility HVAC equipment damaged due to the disaster.
  • > Insufficient resources to remediate the entire facility.

IDENTIFICATION

• • Mold contamination or associated damages, identified by the applicant, must be a direct result of the disaster. Situations that are not obvious will require a closer examination, usually with the assistance of an Industrial Hygienist.
• • It is the responsibility of the applicant to show evidence of mold contamination or damage during the inspection. Sampling may not be necessary; however, applicants may choose to conduct pre- or post-sampling by an experienced professional to ensure proper or adequate remediation.
• • The applicant may provide an Industrial Hygienist’s report to support its request for assistance.

REMEDIATION

• • The method of remediation will depend on the types of material that are damaged and the extent of damage. Accordingly, applicants may employ a variety of mold cleanup methods to remediate mold damage, as appropriate to the characteristics of the situation.