Depending on the extent of the flood damage, you may or may not be able to do the cleaning yourself. If the damage is extensive, you may want to call a professional to help, says the EPA. Check your flood insurance policy to make sure you understand what repair or remediation costs may or may not be covered by the National Flood Insurance Program.

If you choose to hire a professional, you should check their references and make sure they follow guidelines, according to the EPA.

If you decide to do the cleanup yourself, there are several important measures to take before you start. Do not touch any mold or moldy items with your bare hands, the EPA warns. You must wear protective gear like gloves, goggles and an N-95 respirator, says the EPA. If the power is out but you need electricity, you must only operate a portable generator outside to help avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, adds the EPA. Immediately shower and change clothes after you're done cleaning, recommends the EPA.

Here are some other basic tips from the EPA on how to start cleaning mold after a flood:

If there's still water in your home, use a wet vacuum to remove it.
Open all windows, doors, cabinets and drawers to help get the proper ventilation before you start working. You may also want to remove doors and cabinets from their hinges.
Use fans and humidifiers to help air out the space.
Remove mold with water and detergent. Make sure never to mix bleach and ammonia, as this can be toxic.
Separate the debris you want to throw away into six categories: 1) household garbage, 2) construction (i.e. dry wall, carpet, etc.) 3) vegetative (i.e. tree branches, leaves, etc.), 4) electronics, 5) hazardous waste (i.e. batteries, paint, etc.) and 6) large appliances.
When you're done, try to leave as many windows and doors open without leaving your home in danger of a possible theft while you're gone.

Time is key when removing mold from your home. By following the tips above, you can help minimize the damage mold can have on your home. With proper cleaning, your home can be on the path to recovery.