Mold Remediation in Crosby, TX

Crosby began as an 1820s settlement and grew as a railroad shipping point for lumber and farm goods along what is now U.S. 90. Today the census-designated place has about 3,400 people (2020 Census), with surrounding rural and suburban homes along roads like Hare Road and Miller-Wilson Road, about 25 miles in a straight line northeast of central Houston.

What to do when you find mold

1. Stop the water. Roof leak, plumbing drip, AC drain line or storm water, mold will keep growing until the source is fixed.
2. Dry what you can within 24 to 48 hours. EPA says that is the window before mold starts on wet materials.
3. Measure roughly. Under about 10 square feet, EPA says most homeowners can clean it. Larger areas, or anything inside walls or ducts, call for professional help.
4. Leave the AC off if ducts are suspect. EPA warns that running a contaminated system can spread mold.
5. Do not paint over it. Paint and caulk over mold hide the problem without removing it.

Heavy rain in Crosby

In an October 2015 storm, the Harris County Flood Control District measured about 13 inches of rain, and businesses at a Crosby shopping center had more than four inches of water on their floors. Flat ground and clay soil that drains slowly are common across this part of the county, so water can collect around slabs and under doors during long storms. Even in dry years, attic air handlers and sweating ducts give mold plenty of moisture.

Permits, renters and health questions

Because Crosby is unincorporated, building permits come from the Harris County Office of the County Engineer (Residential Group, 713-274-3920). Mold removal itself isn't permitted work, but rebuilding afterward may be, and work in the 100-year floodplain needs drawings sealed by a Texas architect or engineer. Renters should give the landlord written notice of leaks; Texas Property Code 92.052 sets the repair duty (general information, not legal advice). Harris County Public Health handles dilapidated or unsafe buildings and standing water through its Neighborhood Nuisance program at 713-274-6300 or Harris County 311, and is the county health department for health questions.

Texas rules and your call

Texas requires a TDLR license for mold assessment and remediation, and the company that assesses a project cannot also remediate it. Expect a written protocol, a clearance check and a Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation at the end. When you call, describe the damage and you'll be connected with an independent company serving Crosby.