Most bathroom mold is surface mildew on grout and caulk that regular cleaning handles. Bathroom mold removal by a professional is needed when mold keeps coming back, grows on drywall or ceilings, or spreads behind tiles from a hidden leak.
A professional finds where the moisture comes from, removes moldy drywall or materials, and works with a plumber or tile installer to stop the leak.
When you need bathroom mold removal
- Mold that returns within days of cleaning
- Stains or soft drywall near the tub or shower
- Mold on the ceiling that spreads despite the fan
- Loose tiles or a soft floor around the toilet
- A musty smell even when the bathroom is clean
What the job involves
- Inspect and take moisture readings around fixtures.
- Set up containment if mold is inside walls.
- Remove moldy drywall, caulk and damaged materials.
- Clean, treat and dry the framing.
- Fix the leak or ventilation problem, then rebuild.
What affects the cost
Sifixit does not quote prices, because every job is different. These are the things that move the price up or down, so you can compare quotes fairly:
- Surface mold or mold inside walls
- How much drywall or tile must be removed
- Whether a plumber must repair a leak
- Shower or tub rebuilding
- Ventilation upgrades such as a new exhaust fan
Insurance
Insurance may cover mold from a sudden leak, such as a burst supply line, usually up to a limit. Mold from shower water seeping slowly behind tiles over months is usually treated as a maintenance problem and not covered.
Licensing by state
Rules differ a lot between states. Here is who licenses this work in the states Sifixit covers most. Always ask for the license number and check it with the state.
- Texas, Florida, Louisiana and New York license mold assessors and remediators.
- Plumbers are licensed in every state Sifixit covers, for any leak repair.
- Bathroom remodelers may need a contractor license, such as in California or Florida.
Read our guide: bathroom mold causes and prevention.
Local help for bathroom mold removal
- Mold removal in Los Angeles, CA
- Mold removal in Miami, FL
- Mold removal in Phoenix, AZ
- Mold removal in Atlanta, GA
- Mold removal in Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Mold removal in Hollywood, FL
Quick answers: bathroom mold removal
When should I call a professional for bathroom mold?
When it comes back quickly, grows on drywall or ceilings, or you suspect a hidden leak.
Can bleach remove bathroom mold?
It can lighten surface mildew on tile, but not mold inside drywall. Never mix bleach with other cleaners.
Why does my bathroom ceiling get moldy?
Usually steam and a weak or poorly vented fan.
Does insurance cover bathroom mold?
Only sometimes, when it follows a sudden covered leak.
Who does bathroom mold removal?
A mold removal company, with a plumber for any leak. Sifixit can connect you with a local provider.
Looking for bathroom mold removal? Call the number on this page to be connected with an independent local provider. For more background, see the EPA’s mold guide.
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Helpful guides
- Mold under carpet: signs and what to doHow to tell if mold is growing under your carpet, why it happens, and whether the carpet can...
- Mold in a rental home: what tenants and landlords should knowTenants should report mold and any leak to the landlord in writing, with photos, and keep a copy.
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- Mold in AC vents and air ducts: signs and what to doDark spots on vent covers, a musty smell when the air conditioning runs and allergy symptoms that worsen...
- Bathroom mold: causes, cleaning and preventionBathroom mold grows because of steam, standing water and poor ventilation.
- Do I need mold testing? When it helps and when it does notIf you can see or smell mold, you usually do not need testing to know it must be...