The licensing gap
CDPH says California has no legal requirement for training, licensing or certifying mold assessors or remediators. Some other states, such as Louisiana, Texas and New York, do license them (CDPH). Remediators can be certified by national organizations such as IICRC, NORMI and NAMRI, which CDPH lists for information without endorsing them.
Where CSLB comes in
If the job includes construction, such as removing and replacing drywall, flooring or framing, California requires a CSLB-licensed contractor for jobs of $1,000 or more, and the down payment can't exceed 10% or $1,000, whichever is less (CSLB). Check licenses at CSLB. (CDPH's FAQ still cites an older $500 threshold; CSLB's current guidance is $1,000.)
Questions to ask
- What's causing the moisture, and who's fixing it?
- What will you remove, and what will you clean? Why?
- How will you contain the work area and protect the rest of the house, including the HVAC system?
- What protective equipment will workers use?
- How will you confirm materials are dry before rebuilding?
- Who does reconstruction, and is that contractor CSLB-licensed?
- What certifications and how much mold and water-damage experience do you have?
- Can I get the scope, price and schedule in writing?
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Red flags
- Pushing expensive testing when you can already see or smell mold (CDPH says testing isn't needed then).
- Scare talk about "toxic black mold." CDPH says the type doesn't matter; any mold should be fixed.
- Plans to spray and paint over mold. CDPH says that doesn't fix it.
- Air purifiers sold as the solution. CDPH says they won't solve a mold problem.
- Large cash deposits or pressure to sign immediately.
Inspection and remediation by the same company?
It's common and can be efficient. Some homeowners prefer an independent inspector to write the scope so the remediator isn't grading their own homework. Either way, ask for photos and a written plan.
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Sources
Sources checked October 18, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Do mold remediators need a license in California?
Not a mold-specific one, according to CDPH. Construction work above the legal threshold still requires a CSLB license.
What certifications should I look for?
CDPH mentions IICRC, NORMI and NAMRI as organizations that certify remediators, without endorsing them. Experience with jobs like yours matters as much.