In New York, Labor Law Article 32 requires a licensed mold professional for an area of mold larger than 10 square feet. Connecticut's rule for mold remediation was not confirmed for this guide, so no Connecticut rule is stated here. In both states, the EPA's guidance is the same: dry wet materials within 24 to 48 hours to limit mold growth.
Key takeaways
- In New York, an area of mold larger than 10 square feet requires a licensed mold professional.
- Homeowners working on their own property are generally exempt under New York's rule.
- Connecticut's position on mold remediation licensing was not confirmed, so this guide does not state one.
- EPA guidance treats 24 to 48 hours as the drying window for wet materials.
What does New York require for mold work?
The State Department of Labor licenses mold assessors, mold remediation contractors and mold abatement workers under Labor Law Article 32. It is unlawful to advertise or hold out as one of these without a licence for that work.
An area of mold larger than 10 square feet requires a licensed mold professional. Homeowners working on their own property are generally exempt, but the rule applies to hired work.
Mold work under the rule requires a remediation plan, a post-remediation assessment and a clearance report. Verify a contractor on the Department's Licensed Mold Contractors Search before hiring.
What is the Connecticut position?
This guide does not state a Connecticut rule for mold remediation, because the current position was not confirmed. Sources conflict on whether a certification or registration requirement is in force.
Ask the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection whether a mold remediation contractor must hold a certification or registration before hiring. Do not rely on a summary of the rule from a contractor's marketing.
Whatever the licensing answer, the drying work is the same: remove what cannot be saved, and dry the structure against moisture readings.
Why does the drying window matter for mold?
EPA guidance says wet materials dried within 24 to 48 hours generally will not grow mold. If a flooded space is not dried in that window, assume mold may be present.
Porous materials such as drywall, carpet, insulation and ceiling tile that stay wet longer than 48 hours are generally best removed and replaced. Running fans on existing mold can spread it.
Hidden spaces, including wall cavities, crawl spaces and attics, are the common places where drying is missed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licensed professional for a small mold patch in New York?
Under New York's rule, a licence is needed above 10 square feet. A smaller area is not covered by that threshold, but the source of the moisture still needs fixing.
How do I verify a New York mold licence?
Use the Licensed Mold Contractors Search on the State Department of Labor's mold program site, at dol.ny.gov.
Who can I ask about Connecticut mold rules?
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection is the office to ask. Ask for the current rule in writing before hiring a remediation contractor.
Sources
- New York State Department of Labor, Mold Program (Labor Law Article 32)
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, guidance on mold and moisture
This guide is general information for Fairfield County homeowners, not a substitute for an on-site inspection. Prices are estimates. See our disclaimer.