Whether your homeowners insurance covers black mold depends on your policy. Many homeowners insurance policies do not cover mold unless it’s connected to a covered peril.
For instance, suppose your home was damaged in a hurricane. The built-up water damage caused black mold to grow. In that case, you could file a homeowners insurance claim and have the issue resolved. Again, however, this depends on the specifics of your policy, among other factors.
Your Homeowners Insurance Policy Will List “Covered Perils”
Your homeowners insurance policy will list what is covered and what is not. In general, covered perils refer to:
- Adverse weather events. Windstorms, hurricanes, and other weather events can cause black mold to grow. Coverage for adverse weather events could be included in your homeowners insurance policy or part of another policy.
- Firemen typically use extinguishers that spray a massive volume of water. The water will cause moisture to remain in the area, leading to black mold development. The chemicals in fire extinguishers can also cause significant damage.
- If a vandal purposefully damaged your home, this could result in black mold growth. Acts of vandalism include severed hoses and damaged appliances.
- Defective appliances. Suppose your dishwasher or washing machine began leaking water. Even after remedying the issue, this could cause black mold to grow behind the appliance or in the surrounding areas.
The list above is by no means complete, so make sure to check your policy carefully to see what risks you’re protected against. Your insurance policy may also cap how much you can recover or require deductibles.
Your Homeowners Insurance Policy May Not Cover These Things
Even though black mold might seem perilous, it might not necessarily be covered under your homeowners insurance policy. This could be the case if:
A Lack of Maintenance Caused Black Mold Growth
As a homeowner, you’re responsible for keeping your home habitable. If black mold grows because of your negligence or failure to remedy a hazard, your homeowners insurance might not cover it.
Causes of black mold include:
- Too much humidity inside the home
- Poor indoor air circulation
- Standing water or chronic leaks
- Wet or damp windowsills
You’re responsible for preventing mold in your home. However, if one of these issues was caused by a covered peril, your homeowners insurance could cover it.
The Black Mold Existed Before You Moved In
You might have moved into a new home, then shortly discovered black mold. Your homeowners insurance would likely not cover this because it was a pre-existing condition. You might have to pay for mold remediation services out of pocket.
A Flood Caused Black Mold
Many homeowners insurance policies do not cover black mold caused by floods. Typically, flood insurance is a policy separate from your homeowners insurance.
Tips on Filing a Mold Insurance Claim
After evaluating your homeowners insurance policy, if you have coverage for black mold, you deserve what you’ve paid for. Yet, this doesn’t mean the insurance company will handle your claim in good faith.
To promote an approval, here are some things you can do:
Document Your Home’s Damage
When filing your insurance claim, be sure to document the damage to your home. This involves taking photos and videos. If you’ve asked a professional to look at the mold, keep a copy of the estimate to give to your insurance company. You want to show the claims adjuster that because your home suffered a covered loss, you deserve compensation.
Take Preventative Measures to Keep the Problem from Worsening
Once you discover black mold in your home, you should take immediate measures to keep it from getting worse. Not only does this protect your property, but it also protects your health. Per Mayo Clinic, prolonged black mold exposure can cause dry skin, respiratory issues, and other health complications.
Remember: preventing the problem from getting worse does not mean hiring someone to address the issue. It just means preventing the problem from getting worse. If you don’t use a contractor approved by the insurance company, it might refuse to pay for your repairs.
Keep All Communications Between You and the Insurer
One day, the insurance company may assure you that it’s handling your claim in its entirety. The next day, it might claim that it never heard of your problem. This can complicate the claims process.
By keeping records of all phone calls, emails, and text messages, you can contest any misinformation the insurance company gives you. This also lets you hold the insurer accountable for the full cost of what you’re owed.
You Have Options If the Insurer Rejects Your Claim
If the insurance company refuses to pay the compensation you’re owed, you have the right to partner with an attorney from our firm. If your homeowners insurance covers black mold, then you deserve your policy’s benefits – end of story.
Since 2006, the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine has helped claimants get the compensation they deserve. We extend our services to hurricane claimants in both Florida and Louisiana. When you’re ready to explore your options after your home suffers damage, dial 1-800-747-3733.
