Effective July 1, 2024, the Virginia Consumer Protection Act prohibits any individual or firm from selling or offering mold remediation services for residential properties without certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

Why Is This Important to Real Estate Agents

Real estate professionals are a trusted resource for service provider recommendations. Agents should educate their seller clients as to the certification requirements and advise that they:

• Confirm Certification: Property owners should always verify that mold remediation professionals hold a valid Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) certification.
• Use the IICRC Verification Tool: Certification status can be checked through the IICRC Certified Firm Verification Portal.

Ongoing Certification Requirements for an MRS

To maintain active status and appear in the IICRC directory, certified professionals must:

• Complete continuing education courses.
• Pay a bi-annual recertification fee.