Mold Removal & Remediation Services Chicago, IL

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Does your home or business in Chicago IL have toxic black mold? We can help.

Mold is one of the most dangerous things you can find in your home. Even when mold is not visible to the naked eye, it can cause extensive damage to your property and make the people who live in your home sick.

mold removal chicago

When Chicago property owners face mold damage, they call ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba. Our local mold abatement company removes harmful, toxic black mold from properties in Chicago, IL and the suburbs, including downtown Chicago, Northbrook, Logan Square, Evanston, Winnetka and more.

We understand that the sources of mold can be complicated. Fortunately, our team has the skills and equipment needed to accurately identify mold resulting from water damage, moisture from burst pipes, flooding, and more.

We can help resolve mold in the following hard-to-access mold situations:

  • Mold in basements
  • Mold growing under appliances and behind stairwells
  • Mold growth in bathroom ceilings or walls in laundry rooms
  • Mold on wood, furnishings, and personal belongings
  • Mold in ductwork and crawl spaces
  • And more

Once an area is damp, mold growth can begin in as little as 48 hours. Don’t take chances with your family’s health or the value of your home.

Give us a call now to schedule an inspection: 773-647-1985

We Offer the Following Services

mold inspection in chicago

Mold Inspection

When you have a mold problem, you also have a water problem. Without professional repair, leaky roofs and faulty plumbing create a damp environment that encourages mold growth. Our expert teams are highly trained in the inspection process that uncovers hidden mold even behind walls and under floors. We pinpoint moisture sources that cause mold to spread and take care of all necessary repairs.

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removing source of mold from chicago property

Mold Removal

A careful and methodical approach is essential to removing mold from your Chicago property and ensuring the elimination of airborne spores. We tackle the toughest jobs including crawl spaces, basements, ceilings, furnishings and more. By using state-of-the-art equipment and protective gear, we remove all mold and prevent further outbreaks.

commercial mold removal


Airborne mold spores can have a negative impact on customers and employees. Mold can cause extensive damage to your property’s floors, walls and ceilings. Our expert restoration work covers it all including moldy carpets, ruined sheetrock, stained ceilings and more. We restore your building’s interior health by completely eliminating all traces of fungal growth.

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bathroom drywall water damage

Water Damage Restoration

Even minimal water damage from a leaking pipe or overflowed sink can be catastrophic for your home. If you’ve experienced water damage in your space, it’s important to address it before you hire mold removal services, otherwise the mold may come back. Our team identifies the cause of water damage at the source, and resolves the issue entirely–preventing mold from recurring in the future.

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Don’t let mold grow – call today to speak to a mold removal specialist.

Our 7-Step Mold Removal Process for Chicago, IL & Suburbs

1. An Immediate Response.

Every project starts with our immediate response to your call. Mold damage must be addressed right away, so our fully stocked fleet vans are always ready to roll from our headquarters in Chicago and Skokie, IL.

The details of how our mold remediation is done can vary, but we’re on the scene quickly to restore your property back to normal.

2. Complete Mold Inspection.mold inspection

Our ServiceMaster Chicago technicians perform a comprehensive mold inspection of your property and present you with a detailed assessment.

Whether we need to apply our mold remediation process in the basement, kitchen or attic, we explain everything so that you know exactly what to expect. We also carefully assess the condition of your personal belongings. When we’re done, we outline a clear, detailed picture of our action plan for your mold cleanup job.

3. Contain the Mold Infestation.

Before starting any mold cleanup, we secure the affected area with physical containment barriers. We also seal windows and doors and turn off all HVAC equipment. This is done to ensure that airborne spores don’t continue to spread throughout your property.

4. Intense Air Filtration

Our teams set up state-of-the-art equipment designed to remove mold spores from the air. This phase of mold remediation takes at least three days.

Our air scrubbers, dehumidifiers and HEPA vacuum systems make sure that no spores contaminate the remaining remediation process

5. Removal and Remediationmold remediation specialist

We use a combination of antimicrobial and antifungal products to address affected surfaces and materials. These industry-approved sanitizing treatments help hold down the costs associated with mold remediation by preventing future outbreaks.

6. Cleanup Affected Belongings

Often, your furnishings, drapes, bedding and clothing can be cleaned and sanitized with our mold cleanup services.

Our technicians bag and remove affected belongings including personal items for off-site cleaning and odor removal.

7. Final Property Restoration.

The final phase of our mold removal process involves any necessary rebuilding and restoration. We take care of small repairs like replacing baseboards, and we reconstruct entire walls.

Our teams do whatever it takes to get your property back to its original condition.

The ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba Difference:

  • 50+ years of combined mold removal experience
  • Free estimates
  • Locally owned in Chicago & Skokie, backed by a national brand
  • Licensed, bonded, insured, IICRC certified
  • We answer your call the first time
  • Highly trained professionals

What is Mold and Why Is it In My House? 

Mold is made up of microscopic spores that exist almost everywhere in the natural world. While it’s impossible to remove all traces of mold spores from a home or business, mold does not generally become a problem until higher-than-normal indoor humidity or areas of indoor moisture cause mold spores to proliferate and grow.

mold growth in chicago home

Here’s what you need to know about what leads to indoor mold problems in Chicago:

  • Mold spores are microscopic and they float along in the air. They may enter your home through HVAC systems, open windows or doors, or even your pets.
  • Mold spores need moisture to grow. When exposed to water, mold spores can begin to form colonies in as little as 48 hours.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, it’s critical to address the underlying sources of water damage. Otherwise, the mold may return even after remediation.
  • Mold produces a strong, musty odor and can cause respiratory and health problems.
  • Higher-than-normal indoor humidity can cause mold growth. As such, indoor humidity should stay below 45%.

The Dangers of Black Mold in Chicago Homes 

Mold is unattractive, but it can also be dangerous. Mold growth can damage the walls, ceilings, and floors of your home, and pose a risk to the health of your family and guests.

Here are just a few of the possible dangers of mold contamination:

  • Structural damage to your home’s foundation, HVAC system, roofing, gutters, drywall, furnishings, and other elements.
  • Health problems including allergic reactions, headaches, skin irritations, breathing difficulties, asthma, and more.

To prevent the problems associated with black mold, it’s important to hire a team that specializes in mold remediation.

Mold Removal Vs Mold Remediation: What Are the Differences?

While mold removal and remediation may seem like they’re the same thing, they are actually different. Although mold experts can remove problematic mold and prevent future mold growth, it is impossible to remove all mold spores from a home.

Instead, qualified mold specialists practice “mold remediation.” Mold remediation focuses on returning mold growth to normal, natural levels, and minimizing both the health and structural threats presented by uncontrolled mold damage.

Resources

How to Control Mold in Your Home – CDC

Mold Cleanup in Your Home – EPA

Mold & Your Health – Department of Health, Illinois 

Mold Removal Guidelines – Department of Housing & Urban Development

How much does mold remediation in Chicago typically cost?

The work in Chicago usually runs between $1200 and $4500. While that seems like a wide spread, no two jobs are the same. However, these figures cover the majority of our mold remediation projects.

Are there other factors that affect the final mold remediation cost?

Our mold remediation process follows industry-established protocols, but expenses depend on many variables including the location and extent of mold contamination. The sooner you take action to address mold on your property, the lower your costs will be.

Can I get an estimate over the phone?

We don’t quote mold removal jobs over the phone. It’s impossible to give you an honest estimate without an on-site inspection. Always be cautious of any restoration company that offers phone quotes for this type of work.

Does my homeowners insurance cover mold removal?

Typically, homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover mold damage. If you’re not sure about your policy, ask your agent for details. He or she may have options available that can cover you in case of future damages.

What exactly is black mold?

Toxic black mold is also known as Stachybotrys mold. Stachybotrys mold is one of thousands of mold species that grow inside and outside all types of properties. It reproduces and spreads through airborne spores that can survive harsh conditions and extreme temperatures. The spores can also travel in water, on animals and on clothing and personal belongings.
This type of fungal growth is commonly found in properties after extensive water damage. The mold thrives in humid environments and wet conditions. It’s very hard to remove from cellulose materials such as drywall, wood and particleboard. If you suspect black mold is growing in your home or business, consider these important facts.
• Toxic black mold can grow on exterior and interior surfaces. 
• Airborne spores invade a property through windows, doors and HVAC systems. 
• Black mold spores can also attach to pets and clothing. 
• The fungal growth gives off an unhealthy, musty smell that quickly spreads. 
• A critical part of the remediation process involves eliminating moisture sources that allow mold to thrive. 

What causes black mold to form?

Any damp environment can result in an outbreak of toxic black mold. It might be the result of water damage after a flood, plumbing failure, frozen burst pipes or a hidden leak. High humidity can also lead to black mold growth, and it only needs oxygen as a food source.

How can I tell if I have black mold instead of mildew?

Homeowners often ask us about the differences between mold and mildew. Both are common even in the cleanest house, and they can resemble each other. Unless it spreads over large areas, mildew doesn’t usually pose the same health risks as mold. Try this simple test to determine if you have a mold or mildew problem.
1. Using a cotton swab, dab a little bleach on the affected area.
2. Wait a few minutes, and then check for a change in color.
3. If the area turns lighter, you’re looking at mildew cleanup.
4. If the treated surface remains dark, that’s a sure sign that it’s mold.
Mildew is easily removed with a bleach solution or household cleaners, but always be very cautious about attempting mold cleanup until you know exactly what you’re dealing with.
In addition, black mold does have distinctive characteristics:
• It grows in areas that stay wet like crawl spaces with leaky pipes.
• The mold is especially prevalent after a home or business suffers water damage.
• Its growth pattern spreads through materials underneath the surface mold.
• Toxic mold is often slimy with a dark, greenish-black coloration.
• The mycotoxins in black mold give off a strong, unpleasant musty odor.

Is black mold really dangerous?

Every breath you take that’s contaminated with mold spores exposes you to a potential silent killer.
All molds reproduce by releasing microscopic particles into the air. These spores settle on surfaces where they take hold and spread the mold’s growth. Because spores are microorganisms, they’re very easily inhaled. They can also enter the body through the eyes and settle on skin and clothing. While you can see mold growing on walls or floors, it’s impossible to detect airborne spores without taking samples.
Black mold is considered toxic because its spores contain high concentrations of microbial volatile organic compounds and dangerous mold mycotoxins. The spores often affect people who have allergies or weak immune systems. Children and older adults and are especially vulnerable to airborne microorganisms, but a high concentration of black mold spores can impact people who normally enjoy good health.
We handle the dirty, risky job of mold cleanup in Chicago so that you can enjoy a healthy home or business environment again.

What are symptoms of mold exposure?

The CDC reports that studies by the Institute of Medicine clearly link mold exposure to a number of health problems. Most common molds around the house aren’t cause for concern, but exposure to toxic black mold can produce serious reactions in healthy people. Headaches, runny noses and itchy eyes are noted most often, but black mold exposure can also lead to:
• Sever irritation in mucous membranes
• Trouble breathing and serious respiratory distress
• Uncontrollable coughing that sometimes produces blood
• Upset stomach, diarrhea and vomiting
• Bladder and kidney problems
• Extreme fatigue and tiredness
• A loss of concentration and memory
• Compromised immune system responses
• Internal organ damage and failure

How do you ensure mold doesn’t come back?

Mold can have many sources, so we don’t leave your property until we’ve completely taken care of all growth. We address water leaks that form the root of the problem, and we follow through with the steps necessary to make sure you don’t have to deal with another mold outbreak.

Can you restore mold-damaged furnishings and personal items?

While no two restoration projects are alike, we generally bag and remove items like bedding and clothing for off-site cleaning, sanitizing and deodorizing.
As we work through the process to carefully remove mold from your belongings, you can rest assured that your things are in highly trained hands.
Our IICRC-certified technicians use state-of-the-art equipment, industry-approved products and the latest techniques to gently clean your personal items.
We take care of mold removal from clothing, curtains, bedding and more:
All types of carpet and padding
Natural and synthetic upholstery
Chairs, recliners, and leather sofas
Personal papers, books and photographs

How much time does it take to finish a mold cleanup project?

It depends on the size of the mold cleanup job and the need for repairs and reconstruction. To be fair, we can only estimate the scale of a project after we’ve done a thorough property assessment.

Do you use special equipment for mold remediation?

Yes. Take a look at this page for a complete overview of our mold removal equipment.