Homeowners Insurance
At The Morgan Law Group P.A., our Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Puerto Rico insurance claims attorneys know just how damaging — and expensive — mold can be once it infiltrates a home.
Unfortunately, mold removal is only covered by homeowners’ insurance policies when the source of the mold is a peril already covered in the policy, like water damage.
However, standard homeowners’ insurance policies typically only protect their coverage holder from water damage caused by sudden and accidental incidents, like a burst pipe or malfunctioning water heater.
The problem becomes, most people — especially those who have a secondary residence where they split their time — do not know they have a mold problem until it has spread drastically throughout their home.
Here are a few examples of covered perils, how to avoid needing to file a mold damage claim, and what to do if your homeowners’ insurance company denies your claim.
When Is Mold Damage Caused by a “Covered Peril?”
Some of the most common types of mold issues identified as “resulting damage from covered perils” may include:
- Water damage caused by a burst water heater.
- Water leaks associated with a malfunctioning appliance, like an A/C unit.
- Water damage caused by fire sprinklers, or firefighters extinguishing flames in the home.
Mold damage that is the result of storm surges, hurricanes, floodwaters, or other natural acts is typically not covered by homeowners’ insurance policies. Mold damage caused by flooding would need to be covered by a separate flood insurance policy.
In addition, mold damage caused by homeowner negligence — like failing to fix leaking pipes or replacing damaged windows or appliances that allow moisture in — is typically not covered by homeowners’ insurance policies at all.
How Can I Avoid Filing a Mold Claim?
Since mold is not automatically guaranteed by all homeowners’ insurance policies, taking proper preventative measures can help minimize these types of claims.
That may include:
- Frequently inspecting roofs, windows, gutters, and doors to quickly identify damage or cracks.
- Installing dehumidifiers or ventilation in areas that are prone to dampness.
- Properly insulate interior and exterior pipes in colder months to avoid breakages or leaks.
- Regularly checking plumbing pipes and fittings for damage or leaks.
- Routinely check appliances, A/C units, and water heaters for signs of leaks.
Contact The Morgan Law Group Today To Schedule a Free Consultation
At The Morgan Law Group, our insurance claims attorneys believe that if you pay for insurance coverage, it should be there when you need it.
If the insurance company delays, undervalues or denies your claim, contact our experienced insurance claims attorneys in Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Puerto Rico at (844) 818-0774 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue the outcome you deserve from your insurance policy.
