Does Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?
Homeowners insurance overage is contingent upon the wording of a policy and the source of mold.
For instance, nasty, unsightly mold can be found anywhere and usually it’s harmless. However, issues can arise when mold from consistent moisture goes unresolved. As a result, moisture leads to widespread growth. Therefore, coverage of mold damage remediation by your homeowners insurance boils down to the source of that mold. Basic policies exclude damage caused by fungi, mold, and bacteria. Keep in mind, that doesn’t mean your claim will be denied.
If mold results from sudden and accidental causes like a burst pipe, remediation costs should be covered. Technically speaking, the burst pipe is to blame. Neglected home maintenance, such as slow leak or exposure to humidity, would more likely be rejected by your provider.
Prevention is Key to Avoiding Mold Damage
The safest way to avoid a mold claim is to keep moisture and humidity at a minimum. Consequently, to prevent mold growth, take the following precautions:
- Lower indoor humidity with dehumidifiers, air conditioners, and exhaust fans.
- Inspect fittings on pipes, appliances, toilets and sinks
- Use bleach and other household cleaners to keep mold at bay upon first sighting
- Ask your local paint dealer about primers and paints that inhibit mold
- Keep gutters clean and remove ice dams to avoid roof leaks
- Do a seasonal check for moisture in areas that are prone
- Avoid using carpeting in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and basements
- Remove textiles immediately after flooding, mold spores grow rapidly after the first 24-48 hours.
Reviewing your homeowners insurance policy for language pertaining to water damage limitations or exclusions will generally tell you if your covered. If you are suffering from mold damage and are unclear of your coverage, ask for clarity by providing our mold damage experts with a copy of your policy. We’re happy to help. We’ve worked alongside hundreds of carriers to remediate mold from policy holder’s homes. We’ve got you covered.
