Does Insurance Cover Mold?
Mold infestations can sometimes cover large areas — particularly when they go undetected for a long time. Attics and basements are top contenders for such situations. Mold removal might seem like a daunting task, but it’s really quite straightforward. Knowing if your home insurance will cover the cost is an excellent first step.
Riders
Home insurance plans often have various riders, which extend the coverage of a basic policy. They’re basically small insurance plans of their own and are sometimes referred to as Endorsements. Riders can be added for things like valuable jewelry or art, flood or hail damage, and mold.
It’s important to call your home insurance agent to find out if you have an existing mold rider before making a claim. If the rider is not in place, consider setting one up to avoid future costs.
Water Damage
Some insurance policies have coverage, or riders, for “water damage” but not for mold. It’s a fine line between the two sometimes. A flooded area might completely damage floors and walls that need replacing, or might be salvageable but leave behind a mold problem. Both need to be addressed because ignoring either can lead to bigger problems in the future.
Mold issues can sometimes go undetected for a long time after a water/flood incident. Hidden under flooring or behind drywall, they continue to grow and release mold spores into the air. Air quality testing is an effective way to determine if mold is present. There are also tests available that indicate if mold spores have landed on various surfaces in your home or business.
No Insurance
Not having a mold rider on your home insurance is no reason to ignore the need for removal. Gathering information with a consultation and an estimate will point you in the right direction. MoldPro has much experience working with homeowners and their insurance companies in finding a fair solution when mold needs to be remediated.
