“Black mold” usually means dark-colored mold, often associated with Stachybotrys chartarum. The CDC says you don’t need to know the type of mold, and any mold growing indoors should be removed. Removal follows the same steps whatever the color.
Do I need to test whether it is black mold?
No. The CDC does not recommend mold testing and says that no matter what type of mold is present, you need to remove it. Color alone doesn’t tell you the species.
How is dark mold removed?
The same way as other mold. Small areas under about 10 square feet can usually be cleaned yourself, according to the EPA. Larger areas or growth inside walls call for an experienced company using containment and HEPA filtration.
- Find and fix the moisture source.
- Contain the area so spores don’t spread.
- Remove porous materials that are moldy.
- Clean and dry the remaining surfaces.
- Confirm the area is clean before rebuilding.
What if someone in my home feels sick?
Talk to a health professional. The CDC notes that mold affects people differently. This site doesn’t give medical advice.
How do I check a mold company in Pennsylvania?
Most home improvement contractors in Pennsylvania must register with the Office of Attorney General. The rule applies to contractors who do $5,000 or more of home improvement work a year.
- The registration number appears as “PA” plus a number on contracts, estimates and ads.
- You can check a registration by calling the Attorney General at 1-888-520-6680.
- Registration is not an endorsement or a quality rating.
- Contracts must be in writing, with the price, start and finish dates, a description of the work and your cancellation rights.
Will insurance cover it?
It depends on your policy and the cause. Many policies limit or exclude mold, and some cover mold that results from a sudden covered water loss. Check the mold and water sections of your policy and ask your agent.
For problems with how an insurer handles a claim, contact the Pennsylvania Insurance Department at 1-877-881-6388.
How getting help works
SEPA Mold Removal is a free referral service, not a mold company. You describe the problem in the form, and independent local mold companies contact you to set up an inspection or a quote.
Questions to ask the company that comes out
- What is your Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration number?
- Which mold certifications does your crew hold, such as IICRC AMRT or ACAC?
- Will I get a written scope covering containment, HEPA filtration and how the moisture source gets fixed?
- Is the inspection or testing done by an independent assessor, separate from the company doing the removal?
- How will you confirm the job is finished? Ask about post-remediation verification or clearance testing.
- Can you send a certificate of insurance and your warranty terms in writing?
Help by area
Local details by county: Bucks, Montgomery, Chester and Delaware. See all Pennsylvania areas.
Black mold questions
The CDC says you don’t need to know the type of mold. Any indoor mold growth should be removed.
The CDC does not recommend mold testing to identify types.
If the area is under about 10 square feet, the EPA says you can usually clean it yourself. Larger areas call for a professional.
Follow EPA cleanup guidance and fix the moisture. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.
Get matched with a local mold company
Tell us what you’re seeing and where. The service is free. Most property owners hear from a local mold company in 24 hours or less.
SEPA Mold Removal is a free referral service. Your request goes to independent local companies through a partner network. See our Privacy Policy.
Sources
- CDC: About Mold and Your Health
- EPA: Mold Cleanup in Your Home
- EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
- Pennsylvania Attorney General: Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act
Last reviewed: October 2026