When we think of an issue that may arise by being a homeowner, many people wonder if their problem can be covered by insurance.
My House Has a Mold Issue, Am I Covered?
If your home develops a mold issue, is it covered by insurance? The easiest answer is most likely no. Most mold issues do not occur overnight and this is the main reason why it is not covered by insurance. Insurance carriers tend to see mold as a sign of neglect. This could occur if you have a leaking pipe or if a window isn’t sealed properly, which eventually leads to mold growth.
Some home insurance policies may name mold as a covered peril so it is important to review your coverage details or discuss coverage with your insurance agent. There also may be a few scenarios where you may be covered if your mold issue developed quickly. This could occur if you experienced water damaged from a burst pipe or appliance.
Homeowners never want to deal with a mold problem and many times it can be prevented.
Tips to Avoid Mold Issues
- If you are shopping for a home, you may want to pay for a mold inspection before you move in. Sometimes mold can be hard to detect if it is hidden inside the walls of your home or underneath your carpet.
- Check your gutters to ensure they are free of debris. Clogged gutters can also cause more problems than just mold growth.
- When it is a nice day, open up your windows to allow fresh air to circulate. This could decrease moisture inside your home.
- Be aware of any leak inside your home and fix it immediately. Be sure to check your roof, as this is another common place to develop leaks.
- Do you ever notice any condensation on your walls or windows?
- Do you smell anything musty inside your home? This is the common scent of mold growth and it may be time to hire a professional to inspect your home.
- Perform yearly maintenance on any appliance that uses water.
- If you see any mold growth in your home, be sure to clean it with soap & water or a cleaner. Mold can form in many places such as your shower, toilet, sinks, inside your refrigerator, under your kitchen sink, inside your trash can, microwave, stove, window sills, mattress, vents, etc.
- Purchase a dehumidifier and keep it on low levels in your home.
- Always run your fan when taking a hot shower. Mold loves moisture.
We hope you never experience a mold issue, as this can cause damage to your home and your health. Preventative action is the best way to reduce your risk. If you have questions about your current home insurance policy, call our agency.