Mold problems are common in Texas homes and businesses, especially after storms, plumbing leaks, or prolonged humidity. But not all mold situations are treated equally under the law. The Texas Mold Law (Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1958) and the Texas Mold Assessors and Remediators Rules (TMARR) define when a homeowner can handle the cleanup themselves and when a licensed mold consultant must be involved.
In this article, NTX Enviro explains when a licensed mold consultant is required in Texas, what their role is, and how this impacts homeowners, contractors, and real estate transactions.
Why Texas Requires Mold Licensing
Mold isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it can cause serious health problems and property damage if handled improperly. Texas regulates mold assessment and remediation to:
- Ensure proper testing and documentation.
- Protect homeowners from unqualified contractors.
- Provide legal safeguards during insurance and real estate transactions.
- Prevent cross-contamination and unsafe cleanup practices.
The Role of a Licensed Mold Consultant
A Mold Assessment Consultant (MAC) is licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) to:
- Conduct visual inspections and moisture mapping.
- Collect air and surface samples for lab testing.
- Write the remediation protocol for contractors to follow.
- Perform clearance inspections after remediation.
- Issue documentation, including the Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation (CMDR) when applicable.
In short, the MAC is the independent third party who ensures remediation is necessary, performed properly, and fully documented.
When Is a Mold Consultant Required?
Texas law sets clear thresholds for when a licensed consultant is required:
- Mold Contamination Exceeding 25 Contiguous Square Feet
- If mold affects 25 contiguous square feet or more, a licensed consultant must assess the problem.
- This rule applies whether the affected area is in a home, business, or rental property.
- When Mold Is Being Professionally Remediated
- If you hire a licensed Mold Remediation Contractor (MRC), a licensed MAC must first write the remediation protocol.
- The MAC also performs clearance testing to verify the job was done correctly.
- For Insurance and Legal Documentation
- Many insurers require a licensed consultant’s report to process claims.
- A CMDR issued by the consultant and contractor protects the homeowner in real estate transactions.
- After Significant Water Damage
If a property has suffered flooding, roof leaks, or plumbing failures that caused widespread moisture, a consultant is often required to document the extent of damage and determine if remediation is necessary.
When a Consultant Is NOT Required
Not every mold situation in Texas requires a licensed consultant:
- Small Areas (<25 sq. ft.): Homeowners or tenants may clean up small mold problems themselves.
- DIY on Your Own Home: Texas law allows homeowners to remediate mold in their own homes, even if the area exceeds 25 sq. ft., provided they do not hire outside contractors.
- Minor Surface Cleaning: Wiping mold from non-porous surfaces like tile or glass usually doesn’t require professional oversight.
However, skipping a consultant in larger or hidden cases may lead to health risks, cross-contamination, and reduced property value.
👉 DIY Mold Cleanup vs. Professional Assessment: What’s the Difference?
Why Mold Consultants Matter for Homeowners
Protecting Property Value
When selling your home, buyers want assurance that any past mold issues were handled properly. The consultant’s role ensures a CMDR can be issued, which protects property value and resale potential.
Insurance Claims
Without professional documentation, insurance companies may deny claims for mold damage. A consultant’s report provides the evidence insurers need.
Health and Safety
Licensed consultants follow strict standards (ASTM D7338, IICRC S520) to ensure hidden mold and moisture are properly identified, something DIY cleanup often misses.
Why Mold Consultants Matter for Contractors
Licensed mold remediation contractors cannot begin remediation without a protocol from a licensed consultant. This protects both the contractor and the homeowner:
- Ensures legal compliance with TDLR.
- Provides a clear scope of work for remediation.
- Helps contractors avoid liability for incomplete or improper cleanup.
Consequences of Not Using a Licensed Consultant
Ignoring Texas mold laws can lead to:
- TDLR Fines & Penalties: Contractors performing unlicensed work face heavy penalties.
- Insurance Denial: Claims may be rejected if proper documentation is missing.
- Real Estate Complications: Without a CMDR, property value may drop or sales may fall through.
- Health Risks: Mold may return if hidden growth is missed or remediation is incomplete.
Why a Consultant Makes a Difference
- Without a Consultant: A homeowner hires a handyman for a large mold cleanup. The mold looks gone, but no clearance testing is performed. Months later, hidden mold resurfaces, causing health issues and reducing property value.
- With a Consultant: A licensed MAC inspects, writes a protocol, and verifies clearance. The homeowner receives a CMDR, protecting them in future sales and insurance claims.
The difference is clear: a licensed consultant ensures accountability and long-term protection.
In Texas, a licensed mold consultant is required whenever mold contamination exceeds 25 contiguous square feet, when remediation contractors are hired, or when insurers and real estate transactions demand proper documentation.
For homeowners, this ensures health, safety, and property value. For contractors, it ensures compliance and credibility. Skipping a consultant may save money upfront, but it often leads to bigger problems later.
Need to know if your project requires a licensed mold consultant?
👉 Schedule a Professional Mold Inspection with NTX Enviro Today
Our licensed consultants provide unbiased assessments, lab-tested results, and legally recognized documentation, so you can move forward with confidence and compliance.
