Introduction
Mold is more than just an eyesore. In Chicago’s humid climate, hidden mold growth can silently damage your home’s structure and threaten your health.
Understanding how mold starts, where it hides, and how to properly remove it is critical for protecting your most valuable investment — your home.
At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we’ve spent decades helping Chicago homeowners identify, remove, and recover from mold damage safely and efficiently.
This guide gives you everything you need to know about professional mold remediation in Chicago.
What Is Mold — And Why Is It Dangerous?
Mold is a naturally occurring fungus that thrives in moist, dark environments.
It reproduces by releasing tiny airborne spores that can settle throughout a home, especially after water damage incidents.
Why mold is dangerous:
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Structural damage: Mold weakens drywall, wood framing, flooring, and insulation.
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Health risks: Mold exposure can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and long-term health complications.
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Invisible spread: Mold often grows behind walls, under floors, and in HVAC systems — unseen until damage becomes severe.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), any mold infestation covering more than 10 square feet requires professional remediation.
Common Signs of Mold Damage in Chicago Homes
Many Chicago homeowners miss early mold signs because growth often starts behind surfaces. Watch for:
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Persistent musty odors, especially in basements or attics
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Peeling paint or wallpaper
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Warped floors or ceilings
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Increased allergy symptoms indoors
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Visible black, green, or gray spots on walls, ceilings, or furniture
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Past water damage incidents without proper drying
If you notice any of these, professional mold inspection is crucial.
Where Mold Commonly Hides in Chicago Homes
Chicago’s older housing stock creates ideal mold hiding spots.
High-risk areas include:
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Basements and crawlspaces: Moisture accumulation from groundwater seepage
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Attics: Poor ventilation and roof leaks create humid conditions
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Behind walls: Leaky pipes or insufficient insulation trap moisture
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HVAC systems: Ductwork can harbor and spread spores
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Under sinks and around appliances: Dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators often leak unnoticed
Understanding these hidden zones helps homeowners catch infestations early.
Why DIY Mold Removal Often Fails
Homeowners often try to clean mold themselves using bleach or household cleaners.
Unfortunately, DIY efforts usually worsen the problem because:
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Surface cleaning doesn’t eliminate mold roots inside porous materials.
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Disturbing mold releases more spores into the air.
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Improper containment leads to cross-contamination throughout the home.
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DIY cleanup may void insurance coverage if professional remediation is required.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends professional mold remediation for significant growth or after water damage events.
The Professional Mold Remediation Process Explained
At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we follow a proven process for safe and complete mold remediation:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Inspection & Assessment | Identify all affected areas with moisture meters and thermal imaging |
| 2. Containment | Use negative air chambers and physical barriers to isolate mold |
| 3. Air Filtration | HEPA-filtered air scrubbers capture airborne spores |
| 4. Removal of Mold-Infested Materials | Tear out contaminated drywall, insulation, carpeting, and non-salvageable items |
| 5. Cleaning & Decontamination | Specialized antimicrobial treatments to sanitize salvageable materials |
| 6. Drying & Restoration | Restore structure to original condition, preventing future outbreaks |
We also offer post-remediation verification (PRV) testing for peace of mind.
How Much Does Mold Remediation Cost in Chicago?
Mold remediation costs vary depending on the size of the infestation, location within the home, and necessary reconstruction.
| Severity | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small (Under 10 sq ft) | $500 – $2,000 |
| Moderate (Several rooms) | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Severe (Extensive structural damage) | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
Source: Industry averages based on Chicago-area mold remediation projects (2025 estimates).
Fast action minimizes costs by preventing structural damage and larger demolition needs.
Insurance and Mold Damage
Mold coverage depends heavily on your insurance policy.
Many homeowners insurance plans exclude mold unless caused by a covered peril, such as:
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Sudden plumbing leaks
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Water heater ruptures
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Storm-related water intrusion
Important:
Neglecting to address water damage immediately often voids insurance coverage for resulting mold growth.
ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons can help document your case and work directly with your insurance carrier to simplify claims processing.
Learn More About Protecting Your Home From Disasters
For a deeper understanding of how to safeguard your property from water, fire, and mold disasters — and to better navigate the recovery and insurance process — check out RESTORE: A Complete Guide To Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset, co-authored by ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons’ own Sam Simon.
Available now on Amazon for homeowners who want to be prepared before and after disaster strikes.
Why Choose ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons for Mold Remediation?
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30+ Years Experience: Serving Chicago, North Shore, and surrounding suburbs
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IICRC Certified Mold Remediation Specialists
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Award-Winning Service:
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2024 Chicago Star Award
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2021 SB100 Best Small Business Award
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BBB Torch Award for Ethics
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Emergency Response: Available 24/7 for mold inspections and emergency containment
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Preferred Provider: Trusted by leading insurance companies for disaster recovery
When it comes to protecting your home and your family, trust the team Chicago homeowners have relied on for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mold Remediation
Q: How long does mold remediation take?
A: Small jobs may take 1–3 days, while larger remediation projects can last up to two weeks, depending on severity and required reconstruction.
Q: Can I stay in my home during mold remediation?
A: Sometimes — it depends on the location and extent of the mold. For large infestations or when HVAC systems are involved, temporary relocation may be necessary.
Q: Will mold come back after professional remediation?
A: Not if the underlying moisture issue is corrected. ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons addresses both mold removal and moisture prevention.
Conclusion
Mold isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a serious threat to your home’s structure, your health, and your financial well-being.
If you suspect mold growth in your Chicago-area home, don’t wait.
Contact ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons for a professional mold inspection and safe, complete remediation.
Protect your property.
Protect your family.
Rebuild with confidence.
Call us today at (773) 376-1110 or contact us online for immediate assistance.
For more homeowner tips and disaster recovery resources, visit our Home Restoration Resource Hub.