Mold remediation in Metro Vancouver buildings can be complex since you cannot always see the full extent of a mold problem. Mold is often hidden only to be exposed after the removal of moldy materials begins. The process of cleaning mold stirs up the spores that can immediately contaminate other areas of a building and create an indoor air quality problem. This can quickly make occupants sick. Mold removal processes should prevent cross contamination, keep building occupants safe and prevent mold from returning.

Assessment first, then remediation

Mold cannot be remediated properly until its cause and full extent are known. In some cases such as mold in attics, where the cause is typically condensation, ABM Environmental can provide a remediation proposal and estimate based off a home inspection report or photos and the property address. Just fill out our online assessment form and provide the necessary information with photos or a report. For other mold problems an inspection that identifies the moisture source and maps the contamination — including the mold behind drywall, above ceilings or under flooring is required as a first step. We can recommend the correct next steps to resolve the issue.

How the remediation is done safely

For attic mold, ABM Environmental uses a proprietary remediation process that is safer, quicker, more effective and typically costs less to remove the mold growth than conventional methods including dry ice blasting. It is ideal for mold detected in attics after a home inspection. We can make the attic ready to pass the next home inspection quickly for sellers or properly remediate the mold for buyers who want it done right. The work area is contained and spores are not disturbed during removal so they cannot spread to the rest of the building. Surfaces are cleaned with methods and products that are safe for occupants. The mold growth is actually removed and not painted over. Painting over mold is common by other contractors and the painting process is referred to as sealing or encapsulating the mold. This is not ideal in that it leaves the mold behind the paint, encapsulant or sealant, and leaves the attic with a white coating that tells the inspector or future buyers the attic has a mold problem. With ABM Environmental’s proprietary process the attic looks like it never had a mold issue. No white paint or sealants, just natural wood like after the home was built. In most cases the rest of the home or building can stay occupied while the work is done all in one day. When the work is complete, you receive documentation of the work performed and a Certificate of Remediation — the record that insurers, strata councils, landlords and future buyers ask for.

Timing and cost

A localised problem can often be remediated in one day; larger or multi-area contamination takes longer. We can recommend other qualified and reputable contractors that are best suited for the job when it is not something we can do.

Not every mold problem needs professional remediation. Often our assessment finds that the homeowner can safely deal with it themselves, and we will tell you the steps to take. Where professional work is needed, our objective is the lowest-cost option that solves the problem and brings the affected area back to being safe. In most cases a proper assessment by ABM Environmental saves you money, because it makes sure the right scope of work is recommended — no more than the problem requires, and no less. Going straight to often unqualified contractors to deal with a mold issue results in unnecessary and costly demolition and spreading mold spores to other non affected areas. With a proper assessment by ABM Environmental expensive and disruptive demolition processes are often avoided completely. Call (604) 568-5177 for a free phone consultation or complete the online assessment form. If you already have a quote or an inspection report from another company, we are happy to review it and provide a second opinion.