Storm recovery
Flood & Hurricane Mold Remediation in Fort Myers, FL
Hurricane Ian made landfall in Lee County on September 28, 2022 as a Category 4 storm with 150 mph winds, and storm surge flooded thousands of homes. Many local homeowners learned the hard way that the flood is only the first problem. The mold that follows can be just as costly.
- After flooding, remove wet drywall, insulation and carpet within 24 to 48 hours where you can.
- Flood water is contaminated. Porous materials it soaked usually can’t be saved.
- Standard flood cut: remove drywall at least 12 inches above the water line (or to 2 or 4 feet).
- Flood insurance (NFIP) doesn’t cover mold the owner could have reasonably prevented, so act fast and document everything.
The first 48 hours after a flood
- Wait until it’s safe. Don’t enter until officials say the area is safe and power is off to flooded areas.
- Document everything with photos and video before moving anything, including the water line on walls.
- Call your insurer and start your claim. Ask what they need before items are thrown out.
- Get water out with pumps and wet vacs.
- Open up wet walls. Remove wet drywall and insulation, keeping samples if your adjuster asks.
- Dry the structure with dehumidifiers and fans, once the power is safe to use.
Safety first: wear an N-95 respirator, gloves, goggles and boots when cleaning flood damage. Never run a generator indoors or in a garage. Flood water can carry sewage, chemicals and bacteria.
Why flood water is different
A leak from a clean supply pipe is one thing. Storm surge and flood water are another. They are considered contaminated water, and porous materials they soak (drywall, insulation, carpet, pad, upholstered furniture, particle-board cabinets) generally can’t be cleaned and should be thrown out.
| Material | Usually | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Drywall and insulation | Remove | Wicks water and contamination up the wall |
| Carpet and pad | Remove | Can’t be properly cleaned after flood water |
| Particle-board cabinets | Remove | Swells and falls apart when wet |
| Solid wood framing | Clean and dry | Can be saved if dried quickly |
| Concrete block walls | Clean and dry | Common in Florida; dries well with time |
| Tile floors | Clean | Check underneath for trapped moisture |
How flood mold remediation works
Flood cuts
Drywall is cut away at least 12 inches above the highest water line, often at a standard 2 or 4 foot height to make repairs easier. This exposes the wall cavity so it can dry.
Cleaning and antimicrobial treatment
Exposed framing and block are HEPA-vacuumed, cleaned and treated where needed.
Drying and moisture readings
Concrete block, slabs and framing can hold water for a long time. Drying continues until moisture readings return to normal. Rebuilding too soon traps moisture and mold inside the new walls.
Clearance before rebuilding
Clearance testing confirms the space is ready to close up, and gives you paperwork for your insurer, lender or future buyers.
Insurance, NFIP and FEMA
- Homeowners insurance generally excludes flood damage; that needs a separate flood policy.
- NFIP flood insurance may cover mold caused by the flood, but not mold the owner could have avoided, for example by not drying the home after the water went down.
- FEMA assistance may help uninsured owners with some repair costs after a declared disaster.
- Keep receipts, photos and dates. They show you acted quickly to limit damage.
More detail: Does insurance cover mold in Florida?
Watch out for storm chasers
After every big storm, out-of-area crews arrive offering cheap or “free” mold work. In Florida, mold remediation over 10 square feet requires a state license. Check it before signing anything, and never sign over your insurance benefits without reading the contract. How to check a mold license.
Hurricane prep that limits mold
- Photograph your home and belongings before the season starts
- Keep a few rolls of plastic sheeting, a wet vac and fans ready
- Know where your main water shutoff is
- Move valuables and documents off the floor before a storm
- Make a plan for running dehumidifiers if power returns before crews arrive
Service area: Fort Myers and Lee County
We cover flood and hurricane mold remediation across Fort Myers, including McGregor, Whiskey Creek, Iona, Gateway, San Carlos Park and the downtown River District, plus Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, Estero, Bonita Springs, North Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. For whole-home problems, see our mold remediation services in Fort Myers or the full list of service areas.
Frequently asked questions
How soon after a hurricane will mold grow?
Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours on wet materials, according to the EPA. In hot, humid post-storm conditions with no power for AC, growth can be fast.
Can I save drywall that got wet from flood water?
Generally no. Drywall soaked by contaminated flood water should be removed, at least 12 inches above the water line.
Does flood insurance pay for mold?
NFIP policies may cover mold caused directly by a covered flood, but not mold that the owner could reasonably have prevented. Acting quickly and keeping records is important.
How long should walls dry before rebuilding?
Until moisture readings are back to normal levels, which can take days or weeks for concrete block and slabs. Rushing this step is a common cause of mold coming back.
Do I need a licensed company for flood mold?
In Florida, remediation of more than 10 square feet of mold requires a licensed mold remediator.
Storm or flood damage?
Get drying and mold removal started before it spreads.