Determining Eligibility of Mold Remediation Costs For Grant from FEMA

This is part II in the series about FEMA grants for mold remediation costs - The cost of mold sampling, both pre-and post-remediation, may be eligible for reimbursement, provided there is evidence prior to remediation to indicate the existence of disaster-related mold.

• The cost of mold sampling which reveals no presence of disaster-related mold is not eligible for reimbursement.
• Costs to perform eligible remediation - either through force account or a contractor - may be eligible for reimbursement. Contractor costs are subject to the contract procurement requirements in 44 CFR 13.36.
• The following remediation activities may be eligible under Category B:
  * Wet vacuuming, damp wiping or HEPA vacuuming of the interior space.
  * Removal of contaminated gypsum board, plaster (or similar wall finishes), carpet or floor finishes, and ceilings or permanent light fixtures.
  * Cleaning of contaminated heating and ventilation (including ductwork), plumbing, and air conditioning systems, or other mechanical equipment.
• If an applicant fails to take reasonable measures to prevent the spread of mold contamination to a facility, the rehabilitation and repair of the additional contaminated area will not be eligible for federal assistance
• If an applicant can document and justify why reasonable measures were not taken to prevent further contamination to a facility from mold, or why reasonable measures taken were insufficient to prevent further damage, remediation activities may be eligible for reimbursement. Examples of extenuating circumstances may include:
  * Disruption of power.
  * Facility remained underwater.
  * Inability to access the facility due to the disaster, i.e. debris blocking access routes and facility.
  * Facility HVAC equipment damaged due to the disaster.
  * Insufficient resources to remediate the entire facility.

Source: http://www.fema.gov/government/grant/pa/9580_100.shtm