Overview
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidance on mold prevention, cleanup, and moisture control. While not legally binding regulations, EPA guidelines represent federal public health recommendations that inform industry practices.
Important: The EPA provides guidance, not enforceable regulations. There are no federal mold exposure limits or mandatory remediation requirements. However, EPA guidance is widely considered the minimum standard of care.
Key EPA Documents
Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings
The primary EPA mold guidance document. Despite the title, it’s widely used for residential work as well. Covers assessment, cleanup procedures, PPE requirements, and prevention. Originally published 2001, updated 2008.
A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home
Homeowner-focused guidance on identifying, preventing, and addressing mold problems. Written in accessible language with practical recommendations. Available as a free download at EPA.gov.
Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance
Technical document for building professionals on designing moisture-resistant structures. Emphasizes prevention over remediation.
EPA Size Guidelines for Cleanup
The EPA provides guidance on who should perform cleanup based on the size of the affected area:
| Affected Area | Who Can Clean | Protection Required |
|---|---|---|
| <10 sq ft | Homeowner/maintenance | N95 mask, gloves, eye protection |
| 10-100 sq ft | Trained personnel | PPE, containment recommended |
| >100 sq ft | Professional remediator | Full containment, professional protocols |
HVAC Exception: If the HVAC system is contaminated, EPA recommends professional assessment regardless of the visible mold area size. HVAC contamination can distribute spores throughout the building.
Key EPA Recommendations
- Fix moisture first — The water source must be identified and corrected before cleanup
- Dry wet materials within 24-48 hours — Prompt drying prevents mold establishment
- Maintain humidity below 60% — Ideally 30-50% for both comfort and mold prevention
- Clean and dry thoroughly — Remove moldy porous materials; don’t just treat surfaces
- Do not paint or caulk over mold — Surface treatments are not solutions; mold will return
- Consider occupant health — People with allergies, asthma, or immune issues should not be present during cleanup
- Verify success — Consider post-remediation testing to confirm cleanup was effective
EPA Position on Mold Testing
The EPA states that if you can see or smell mold, it should be cleaned up — testing isn’t necessary to confirm the problem exists. This is sometimes misinterpreted to mean testing has no value.
However, the EPA acknowledges testing may be valuable for:
- Identifying hidden contamination (musty odor but no visible mold)
- Verifying remediation success after cleanup
- Documentation for legal or insurance purposes
- Real estate transactions
- Healthcare provider documentation
- Landlord-tenant disputes
TrueSight’s Position: Testing provides objective data that supports informed decision-making. It’s not always necessary, but it’s often valuable — particularly when mold isn’t visible, when documenting conditions, or when verifying cleanup success.
Oklahoma Context
No State Mold Regulations
Oklahoma does not have state-specific mold regulations or licensing requirements for mold assessors or remediators. EPA guidance often becomes the de facto standard in the absence of state law.
Standard of Care
In legal disputes, EPA guidance is often referenced as the minimum standard of care. Remediation companies that deviate significantly from EPA guidelines may face liability questions.
Insurance and Documentation
Oklahoma insurance companies often reference EPA guidance when assessing mold claims. Proper documentation following EPA protocols strengthens claim validity.
Full Documents & Resources
- EPA Mold Resources — Main mold information page
- Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings — Primary remediation guidance
- A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home — Homeowner guide
- EPA Moisture Control Guidance — Building design and moisture prevention resources