Many incidents can damage homes, and while massive events like earthquakes and wildfires may be among the first to come to mind, you must also consider the threat of even microorganisms, such as mold. Although fungal contaminations in your home might not seem as potentially damaging as natural disasters and major accidents, they can inflict similar financial losses. Understanding how your home insurance may apply is critical.
Does Standard Home Insurance Cover Mold-related Losses?
In some cases, your homeowners insurance policy may provide aid for expenses related to a mold issue, such as cleanup costs and remediation services. However, coverage can be nuanced and complicated, and payouts will likely depend on how the issue occurred.
Specifically, your homeowners insurance claim may be approved if a sudden, covered incident caused your mold issue. For example, if a pipe bursts and floods your basement, you could receive financial assistance to manage resulting mold issues.
However, mold is often seen as a maintenance issue. If your insurance company believes your home’s infestation is due to negligence and allowing moisture issues or leaks to enable mold growth over time, you’ll likely need to pay for remediation on your own.
Tips for Preventing Mold
Avoiding mold issues in the first place can help you not have to worry about whether they’ll be covered by your homeowners insurance. Consider the following strategies:
- Clean up leaks, spills and other standing liquid immediately.
- Limit your home’s humidity using ventilation and dehumidifiers.
- Check your air conditioning system’s drip pans and drain lines to avoid allowing standing water to cultivate mold growth.
- Insulate cold surfaces, such as pipes and windows, to limit condensation.
We’re Here to Help
Contact the Elliott-Hartman Agency in Waterloo, Iowa, todayto learn more about homeowners insurance and discuss policy options.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.