Florida Mold Law: Complete Guide for Homeowners
Florida has strict mold laws that affect selling, buying, renovating, and remediating homes. Violating these laws can void insurance claims, create legal liability, and cause major headaches. Here's what you need to know.
📞 Questions? Call — 321-420-7274Key Florida Mold Laws You Need to Know
Florida Statute 689.155 (Mold in Properties)
Summary: Defines mold liability and disclosure requirements. Requires sellers to disclose known mold.
Impact: If selling a home, you MUST disclose known or suspected mold to the buyer. Hiding it = liability.
Florida Statute 609.19 (Mold Disclosure)
Summary: Requires real estate agents to disclose any known mold conditions to all parties.
Impact: Real estate transactions must include mold addendum. Failure to disclose can result in lawsuit.
Florida Statute 469.004 (Mold Remediator License)
Summary: Requires professional license for ANY mold remediation work (not just inspection).
Impact: CRITICAL: Only a licensed mold remediator can legally remediate mold. Unlicensed contractors can void insurance claims.
Florida Building Code (Moisture Control)
Summary: Requires proper ventilation, drainage, and moisture control in new construction.
Impact: Applies to renovations and new builds. Poor moisture control = code violation.
Florida Administrative Code (FCAC 5E-14.010)
Summary: Establishes standards for mold assessment and remediation.
Impact: Defines what 'proper' remediation is. Non-compliance = insurance claim denial.
The #1 Mistake: Hiring an Unlicensed Mold Contractor
This is critical. Read carefully:
Under Florida law, ONLY a licensed Mold Remediator can perform ANY mold remediation work.
This includes: removing mold, cleaning mold-affected materials, encapsulating mold, or treating surfaces to prevent mold. General contractors, plumbers, HVAC techs, and unlicensed "mold specialists" cannot legally do this work.
What Happens If You Hire an Unlicensed Contractor:
Insurance Claim Denial
Insurance companies will deny your claim if mold remediation was performed by someone without a Florida Mold Remediator License. You're not reimbursed.
You Become Liable
If the unlicensed contractor does improper remediation and mold comes back, YOU are liable — not them. You could face lawsuits from future buyers.
Code Violation
Work performed by unlicensed contractors doesn't meet Florida Building Code. Doesn't pass inspection if you try to sell.
No Warranty
Licensed remediators provide warranties. Unlicensed contractors don't, so if mold returns, you have no recourse.
Go to MyFloridaLicense.com and search for the contractor's name or license number. A valid Mold Remediator License starts with "MRSR" followed by numbers. We are #MRSR5370. Don't hire anyone else.
If You're Selling a Home: Mold Disclosure Requirements
You Must Disclose Known Mold
Florida law requires sellers to disclose any known or suspected mold to buyers. Not disclosing = legal liability and potential lawsuit.
Document Professional Remediation
If you had mold remediated professionally, keep the documentation (before/after photos, lab reports, clearance certificates). This proves the work was done properly.
Get Post-Remediation Testing
Clearance testing (mold inspection after remediation) proves the problem is solved. Buyers want to see this. Get it done.
Be Honest About the Source
If mold came from water damage, identify the cause. Buyers want to know the water/moisture source was fixed, not just the mold removed.
If You're Buying a Home: What to Look For
Ask Direct Questions
Does the disclosure mention any mold history, water damage, or moisture issues? Get clear answers before proceeding.
Hire a Professional Mold Inspector
Don't rely on the general home inspection. Hire a licensed mold professional to do a separate inspection (usually $300-800). It's worth it.
Request Documentation
If mold was previously remediated, ask for: lab reports, clearance certificates, documentation of the cause being fixed. No documentation = red flag.
Negotiate Based on History
Homes with mold history are riskier. Get a lower price or require professional remediation as a condition of sale.
Verify Remediation Was Professional
Check if remediation was done by a licensed mold remediator (MRSR license). If unlicensed, you inherit the liability.
Need Professional Mold Work?
We are a licensed Florida Mold Remediator (#MRSR5370). All work meets or exceeds Florida law. Insurance accepted, warranties included.