IICRC stands for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. IICRC is an organization established in 1972 to set standards for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration services industries. Considered a certification and standard-setting body rather than an association, the group includes 53,000 active certified registered technicians, as well as 6,000 certified firms, individuals and companies. It is important to note that the rationale behind being IICRC certified is to protect both the interests of professionals in these industries and consumers.

To obtain an IICRC certification, technicians need to take a series of classes in specialized areas of cleaning, inspection, and restoration before sitting for a standardized exam. After achieving this certification, registrants must keep up with trends in the field and the challenges presented by new materials through continuing education credits (CECs) to maintain their certifications.

An IICRC certified water damage restoration company typically indicates that it has the right amount of knowledge and expertise to adequately and safely restore a home. Although firms that specialize in restoration and remediation can function without an IICRC certification, those with this designation can offer a degree of confidence to business owners and homeowners affected by natural disasters.

To qualify for an IICRC-Certified status, business owners must also prove to the regulatory body that they are reliable and trustworthy. Firms in these industries are required to produce proof of insurance, and proper documentation that technicians are educated and well-trained in their respective fields. In addition, all ongoing and follow-up trainings must be documented as well.

Yes. Mold in homes and offices have the potential to make some occupants sick.

About 50 to 100 common types of indoor mold have the potential to create health problems. Due to the health risks associated with mold exposure, it is best to facilitate mold remediation and abatement services as soon as possible. While the type of reaction depends upon the mold present and the individual, the EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) and CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) state that all molds have the potential to cause health issues such as:

Headaches
Breathing difficulties
Persistent cough or cold symptoms
Burning or irritation of the eyes, nose, throat or lungs
Asthma attacks
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Skin irritation
Allergic reactions
Opportunistic infections in immune-compromised individuals

From orange films on kitchen drains to white patches on basement flooring, household mold is more than unsightly. Individuals who have asthma or allergies can become sick due to prolonged mold exposure. In addition to the elderly, children and infants, individuals with chronic lung diseases or weaker immune systems (e.g., due to chemotherapy) may also be sensitive to the effects of mold.

Mold in an office can play a significant role in causing Sick Building Syndrome and affect Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). Mold colonies typically grow in an office environment that has a temperature range of between 70 and 90°F, as well as 60-90% moisture/humidity levels. That's why proper humidity control measures are needed in office buildings to minimize mold and mildew problems. Break rooms, top floor ceilings, windows, bathrooms, and basements are some of the common areas where molds are found in an office environment.