Mobile averages over 65 inches of annual rainfall — the highest of any major U.S. city east of the Mississippi — and subtropical heat keeps relative humidity above 70% most of the year. Hurricane Sally made landfall approximately 30 miles south of Mobile in 2020; many homes showed mold growth six to twelve months later, long after emergency response ended.
Crawl space construction dominates Mobile's housing stock. The city's high water table keeps crawl space soil moisture elevated year-round, and without effective vapor barriers, relative humidity beneath floor joists routinely exceeds 80% — sustaining mold on subfloor sheathing before odors surface above.
Alabama requires no specific state mold license. Contractors should hold a current Alabama Home Builder license, carry liability and workers' compensation insurance, and have IICRC AMRT-certified technicians. Verify license status at alabamalicensing.gov. Require an independent assessor's written protocol and third-party clearance. Call 24/7.