| Water Damage Restoration | Mold Remediation | |
|---|---|---|
| Governing standard | IICRC S500 | IICRC S520 |
| Primary goal | Remove water, dry structure | Contain and remove mold |
| Typical timeframe | 3–7 days drying + rebuild | 1–5 days remediation + verification |
| Typical price range | $500–$15,000+ | $1,500–$12,000 |
| PPE required | Gloves + eye protection typical | Full PPE: P100 respirators + Tyvek |
| Containment | Not typically required | Required per S520 Condition 3 |
| Insurance treatment | Covered for sudden/accidental | Mold cap often $5,000–$50,000 |
| Post-work verification | Moisture readings to dry standard | Third-party air/surface clearance |
You have active water damage from a burst pipe, leak, storm, or flood and need immediate mitigation. If you catch it in the first 48 hours, water damage restoration alone usually prevents mold entirely.
You have confirmed or suspected mold growth — often from water damage that went untreated for 48+ hours, chronic moisture, or hidden leaks. Mold remediation is required when spore amplification has begun.
Fast water damage restoration is the cheapest mold remediation. The whole point of S500 drying is to prevent S520 remediation. Call within hours of discovering water damage and you'll likely never need mold remediation.
Frequently Asked
Can the same company do both water damage restoration and mold remediation?
Yes, and ideally they should. Water damage and mold frequently occur together — a single crew with both certifications handles the full scope without coordination gaps. Moisture Pro holds both IICRC certifications.
Does my insurance cover both?
Sudden and accidental water damage is covered by standard Texas homeowner's policies. Mold is typically covered if it resulted from a covered water event, subject to a mold cap ($5,000–$50,000 typical). Preventable mold from chronic leaks may not be covered.
How fast does water damage become mold?
Mold growth typically begins 24–48 hours after water damage at normal indoor temperature and humidity. This is why fast water damage response is critical.