New Certification Requirements for Mold Remediators in Illinois

In the battle against household mold, expertise matters more than ever. As of January 1, 2025, Illinois has implemented significant changes to its mold remediation industry. 

Under the newly enacted Mold Remediation Registration Act (SB 1087), all mold remediation professionals in the state are now required to obtain third-party certification and register with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). 

This landmark legislation aims to protect residents from the health risks associated with mold exposure while ensuring that only qualified professionals handle mold remediation projects.

If you’re a property owner or manager in Illinois, understanding these new requirements and the importance of hiring certified and experienced mold remediators can save you time, money, and potential health hazards. Let’s explore what this means for property restoration and why expertise matters when addressing mold issues.

The New Illinois Certification Mandate

Under the newly enacted legislation, all mold remediation companies operating in Illinois must now hold active certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This requirement represents a significant shift in how the industry is regulated within the state.

Before this law, Illinois did not require licenses for mold remediation. While some companies (like PuroClean of Evanston) voluntarily pursued IICRC certification to augment their reputation for excellence, there was no statewide standard.

The IICRC is widely recognized as the leading certification body in the restoration industry, setting rigorous standards for professional cleaning and restoration services. Their certification process ensures that remediation professionals possess the knowledge, skills, and equipment necessary to perform quality work.

Most importantly, companies must now provide evidence of their active third-party certification to operate legally in Illinois. This means property owners can now verify a company’s credentials before hiring them, creating an additional layer of consumer protection.

Understanding the New Requirements

The Mold Remediation Registration Act was passed with unanimous, bipartisan support, and introduces several key provisions:​

• Mandatory third-party certification: All mold remediation professionals must obtain certification from recognized organizations like IICRC or NORMI (the National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors). This ensures adherence to industry standards and best practices. ​
• State registration: Professionals are required to register with the Illinois Department of Public Health, providing evidence of their active certification and demonstrating financial responsibility. ​
• Public awareness campaigns: The Department of Public Health is tasked with educating the public about the “threats posed by mold and water damage in indoor environments, emphasizing the importance of proper inspection and remediation to safeguard health,” per the Change the Air Foundation

These measures are designed to protect consumers by ensuring that mold remediation services are performed by individuals who have met stringent training and ethical standards.

Why It Matters for Home and Business Owners

Mold remediation isn’t simply about removing visible mold — it’s a complex process requiring specialized knowledge and equipment. Certified professionals understand the science behind mold growth, proper containment procedures, and effective removal techniques.

The Illinois licensing process specifically requires remediators to demonstrate proficiency in:

• Identifying different mold types and their growth patterns
• Assessing moisture sources and environmental conditions
• Implementing appropriate containment strategies
• Using proper personal protective equipment
• Applying scientifically-proven procedures
• Preventing cross-contamination during remediation
• Performing post-remediation verification

These skills aren’t developed overnight. IICRC-certified mold remediators undergo extensive training and must pass rigorous examinations to earn their credentials. They also participate in continuing education to stay current with industry advancements and best practices.

The Risks of Hiring Uncertified Remediators

The new Illinois requirements highlight a crucial truth: mold remediation is not a DIY project or a task for general contractors without specialized training. Attempting to do this yourself typically makes the situation worse.

Hiring uncertified people to handle your home or commercial building’s mold issues can lead to numerous problems:

Incomplete Remediation

Uncertified contractors often focus solely on visible mold while ignoring the underlying causes. They might remove surface mold but fail to address moisture sources, leading to recurring problems within weeks or months. In contrast, our certified professionals perform thorough assessments to identify and address root causes of mold growth.

Cross-Contamination Risks

Without proper knowledge of containment protocols, uncertified workers can inadvertently spread mold spores throughout your property during the removal process. This cross-contamination can transform a localized issue into a whole-house problem.

Health Concerns

Improper remediation techniques can release millions of mold spores into the air, potentially exacerbating respiratory conditions, allergies, and other conditions. The trained professionals at PuroClean of Evanston use specialized equipment and techniques to minimize these risks during the remediation process.

Property Damage

Mold remediation often involves working with water-damaged materials. Without the right expertise, workers might cause additional structural damage or overlook hidden issues that could compromise your property’s integrity.

Failed Real Estate Transactions

If you’re planning to sell your property, documentation of proper mold remediation by certified professionals can be crucial to a successful sale. 

According to Illinois REALTORS® Legal Hotline Attorney Betsy Urbance, there is no statutory requirement to provide a mold disclosure form. However, the state’s existing disclosure rules require homeowners to disclose any underlying physical defects in a property that they’re aware of, such as water damage.

Choosing the Right Mold Remediation Company

Chicagoland’s unique climate, unpredictable storms, and high moisture levels mean fungal spores can be found in even the cleanest homes or newest commercial buildings. While there are steps you can take to prevent mold growth, it’s crucial to hire certified and experienced professionals who can address your remediation needs effectively.

At PuroClean of Evanston, we specialize in certified mold remediation services tailored to exceed Illinois’ new standards. With years of experience and IICRC-certified technicians on our team, we’re committed to providing thorough, reliable solutions that protect both your property and your health.

When it comes to mold, taking quick action is essential — reach out to our Paramedics of Property Damage™ today!