For John Rivers, there’s never been a question of what drives his business—it’s solving problems. As the owner and operator of Maryland Mold and Waterproofing, John has spent the past 16 years navigating basements, crawlspaces, and disaster zones, always with the same goal in mind: deliver high-quality, lasting solutions and never settle for a quick fix.

“We are there to solve issues, not sell a service,” John says plainly. “We provide the integrity to only provide what is needed, the quality of workmanship we stand behind, with the best quality of products in the business, and the experience to know how to fix the issues and do it correctly.”

It’s a formula that has earned his company the trust of top agents, contractors, and thousands of homeowners across Anne Arundel County and beyond. Specializing in waterproofing, mold remediation, and water damage restoration, Maryland Mold and Waterproofing works to “create healthy spaces through a variety of services,” a mission that’s evident in every project they take on.

John isn’t shy about what sets his team apart. “We won’t likely be the least expensive,” he says. “But we will blow the quality of our competitors out of the water and provide exceptional service.” He emphasizes that his company isn’t usually an apples-to-apples comparison—because what they offer is something more long-term. “We are in this for the long run.”

His journey into the industry began after leaving the mortgage world and launching a mosquito control business, Mosquito-Man, which he sold in late 2024. From there, he was introduced to mold remediation through pest control contacts. But simply removing mold wasn’t enough for him. “I not only wanted to remediate the mold but figure out the why and create a plan to keep it from returning.”

That curiosity and drive to solve root issues has led to the company's latest expansion into water damage restoration, a division John is especially excited to grow. “We work with public adjusters and all insurance companies,” he explains. “Having public adjusters helps us ensure the damage is repaired to as good as new, and our customers are taken care of by the insurance companies.”

Still, he’s quick to note the road hasn’t been without its detours. “It’s not been all success. We have tried and failed at a few services and ideas,” John says. “Knowing when to ‘fold ’em’ and move on has helped us grow what’s working.”

John credits much of his company’s success to his dedicated team. “Sarah is my right hand,” he says. “She helps with all aspects of the business and truly cares about our team, customers, and referral partners.” On the front lines, his waterproofing and structural crew—Emilio, Pedro, and Amilcar—handle the heavy lifting, while Maurice, a team lead for mold and insurance work, “arrives at the office at 5:00 a.m. every day.” John admits, “I try to beat him to work, but only succeed about 50% of the time.”

The team also includes Kenny, Jordy, Vernon, and Evin—“talented, hardworking crew members that can take the lead when necessary.” Vernon holds an IICRC CMR certification, and Kenny is WRT certified.

When he’s not working—or trying to stop taking calls after 6 p.m.—John enjoys boating, fishing, and spending time with his wife, their children, Mackenzie, Charlotte, Landon and Bond and their two chocolate labs, Kona and Cash. “We love family trips to warm places,” he adds, with a smile.

Looking ahead, his goals are clear: “Grow our Water Damage Restoration Division and reach 400 Google Reviews by the end of 2026. We’re currently sitting at 194.”

Ultimately, John defines success by his company’s reputation. “Our reputation and the quality of our work,” he says. “We have hundreds of referral partners and thousands of customers.”

For real estate agents, John offers a simple message: “We want to be your partners, not someone that just provides estimates. I’ve worked countless deals where I’ve helped buyers and sellers understand what’s wrong and how to create a safe and healthy home. We want to work with you and your clients side by side.”

For more information about Maryland Mold and Waterproofing, call the office at 410-858-0021 or visit www.marylandmoldandwaterproofing.com.