Mold in Florida Homes: A Homeowner’s Guide

Expert insight by: Brad Fishbein, Licensed Mold Assessor

Updated August 1, 2025

If you live in Florida, you're no stranger to moisture—and where there's moisture, mold often follows. With its humid climate, aging housing stock, and regular storms, Florida is one of the moldiest states in the U.S.

Whether you're dealing with black mold on drywall, attic mold after a storm, or just want to prevent future growth, this guide will walk you through what Florida homeowners need to know.


🌡️ Why Florida Homes Are So Prone to Mold

Florida’s climate is a breeding ground for mold:

  • High humidity year-round (especially in central and south Florida)
  • Frequent rain and hurricanes causing water intrusion
  • Warm temperatures ideal for mold spore activation
  • Flat roof architecture and poorly ventilated attics
  • Older homes with water damage history

The CDC and Florida Department of Health warn that mold can appear within 24–48 hours of water damage.


⚠️ Common Types of Mold Found in Florida Homes

Florida homes often experience:

  • Black mold (Stachybotrys) – often grows after flooding or leaks
  • White mold – found on baseboards, drywall, HVAC vents
  • Green mold – appears on walls, furniture, clothing
  • Orange mold – often grows in bathrooms and kitchens

Each type may indicate different causes and require a unique cleanup approach. Learn more in our Mold Types Guide.


🧾 Florida Mold Laws & Disclosure Requirements

Florida has no specific statewide law limiting mold levels, but important legal protections exist:

  • Landlords must maintain habitable living conditions (Florida Statute § 83.51).
  • Mold disclosure is not legally required during home sales, but known issues must be disclosed under general real estate fraud statutes.
  • Florida Mold Licensing: All mold assessors and remediators must be licensed through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Tip: Always ask contractors for their Florida mold remediation license number.


💰 Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold in Florida?

Sometimes. Most Florida home insurance policies exclude mold unless it's caused by a covered peril (like storm damage). You’ll need:

  • Proof of sudden and accidental water damage
  • Immediate action to stop the moisture source
  • Documentation (photos, receipts, mold inspection reports)

We break it down in detail here: Water Damage Insurance Claims


🧪 Mold Inspection & Testing in Florida

Here’s when to test:

  • You see visible mold but need to identify type or extent
  • You're buying/selling a home and want proof for negotiations
  • You've had water damage, but don’t see mold (yet)
  • You're experiencing health symptoms and suspect air quality issues

Common inspection methods:

  • Air quality testing
  • Wall cavity sampling
  • Tape/swab/bulk samples
  • ERMI/HERTSMI dust tests

💵 Average Mold Remediation Costs in Florida

Type of Mold Job Estimated Cost Range
Small spot treatment (DIY) $50 – $200
Professional attic remediation $1,500 – $4,000
Whole-home cleanup $6,000 – $30,000+
Post-hurricane remediation $10,000+

Costs vary by region, size of problem, material damage, and urgency.


🧼 Florida Mold Prevention Tips

  • Use dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity below 50%
  • Run HVAC systems year-round with proper filtration
  • Inspect attics and crawlspaces quarterly
  • Seal windows, vents, and roofs before storm season
  • Don’t ignore musty smells—they often mean hidden mold

Check out our Ultimate Mold Prevention Guide for more.


📞 Get Help From a Florida Mold Expert

Mold in Florida isn’t just annoying—it can be dangerous and expensive if ignored. Professionals are standing by to help.

Call 1-866-871-0209 now to speak with a local mold remediation expert.


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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is an ACAC council-certified Microbial Investigator. In the fall of 2012, he became a Licensed Mold Assessor in the State of Florida through the Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Brad has helped homeowners with over 5,000 successfully completed Mold Inspections since 2009.

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