A standard homeowners insurance policy should cover a mold claim if the growth has been caused by a covered hazard of a sudden or accidental nature, and the mold is hidden inside walls or ceilings, under floors, or above the roofs of a structure.
Home insurance
will not cover mold remediation and removal, unless the mold is due to a covered hazard, and coverage is often limited. To file a mold insurance claim, you must document it with photos and provide the home insurance company with an explanation of how the mold originated. Homeowners insurance generally only covers mold when it's caused by a covered hazard, which is outlined in your home insurance policy.Leslie Kasperowicz, an insurance expert with four years of direct experience in agencies and more than a decade creating educational content to help insurance buyers make informed and confident decisions, explains that there are some common causes of mold damage that a standard home insurance policy doesn't usually cover. Home insurance companies often deny claims when the investigation determines that negligence caused the damage. The home insurance company is likely to deny mold caused by its own negligence and lack of maintenance. While a standard home insurance policy doesn't usually cover these situations, that doesn't mean you won't be lucky.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers flood insurance through its National Flood Insurance Program, but coverage may exclude damage caused by mold. If you think the insurer has treated you unfairly, you can also file a complaint with your state's insurance department or with the Better Business Bureau. When you take out a homeowners insurance policy, your insurer will describe the hazards that your policy covers. Damage caused by a buildup of water or the failure of a sump pump can be costly and generally not covered by standard home insurance policies.
However, there are some additional coverage options available for homeowners who want to protect their property from mold damage. For instance, some insurers offer additional coverage for water damage caused by sump pump failure or water backup from sewers and drains. This type of coverage can help protect your home from costly repairs due to water damage caused by these events. Additionally, some insurers offer coverage for mold remediation and removal if it is determined that the mold was caused by a covered hazard.
It's important to understand what your home insurance policy covers and what it doesn't cover when it comes to mold damage. Knowing this information can help you make an informed decision about whether or not you need additional coverage for your home. It's also important to remember that even if your policy does not cover mold damage, you may still be able to file a claim if the damage was caused by a covered hazard.
