As most homeowner insurance policies go, mold is one of the few things (along with corrosion, rot, and fungus, etc.) that are generally not covered unless it is the result of something that is covered by the home’s insurance policy, such as flood damage and the water caused by a burst pipe.

Insurance policy language is often very specific as to what is covered; “sudden and accidental water bursts” is usually what insurance companies call covered water damage. To increase your protection you can buy an insurance rider, which is an extra aspect or line item in your policy that covers that individual peril.

Fungus and mold have been around for thousands of years and will continue to be for thousands more. As homeowners become more aware of mold related problems the amount of mold claims that have been submitted to insurance companies have increased considerably.

To combat this, insurance companies are increasingly placing language into their policies that is very specific as to what is covered and what is not. In order to protector yourself, make sure you speak with your insurance agent about what is covered in your homeowners policy and what is not. Learn the language in your policy and understand what rights you have.

Someone who owns property should be aware that repairing water damage, cleaning up mold and identifying the coverage aspects of your insurance policy should be done immediately in order to safe guard the property.

Remember, that if you don’t have a rider that covers mold or if it’s not a result of a covered peril is such as covered water damage, your insurance company will deny your claim.

Water Damage
By Mark Decherd
www.dryout.net