MOLD AND HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

This picture shows mold growth that developed on the backside of the drywall. This normally occurs from an ongoing leak in the ceiling.

A question that we often are asked here at SERVPRO of Winnetka/Wilmette/Skokie is "Are there insurance plans that will cover you from the cost of a mold remediation project?"

So, does homeowners insurance cover mold? The answer is...Sometimes.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

Homeowners' insurance does not usually cover mold damage. Your insurance company sometimes has separate coverage for mold with a limit as to what is paid out.

That being said, there are some instances where the cost of mold remediation can be covered by the insurance carrier. These instances generally occur when the source of the mold is due to an incident that the homeowners' insurance policy does cover. For example, if mold has grown due to an accidental pipe break, sump pump failure, or water that's been used to put out a recent fire has caused mold to occur, your homeowners' insurance could cover the mold damages. On the other hand, if mold has grown due to improper maintenance practices such as ongoing high humidity content or a continuous leak (roof or foundation leak), homeowners insurance will likely not cover the damages.  

How To File a Homeowners Claim for Mold

The first step in filing a claim is to call your insurance carrier as soon as the suspected mold is discovered to inform them of the damages and the source of the issue. Once you speak with your insurance carrier they will advise you if you have coverage. If so, they will provide you with the next steps, you can begin to gather the evidence. You can do this by taking several pictures of the source of the issue, as well as any apparent mold growth. Keep in mind that mold only needs 72 hours to begin to grow.

Your insurance company most likely will require you to get the affected areas tested.  The test will determine if there is mold, how many mold spores, what type of mold, and a protocol of what should be done to remediate the mold. Once you receive the results, call SERVPRO of Winnetka/Wilmette/Skokie at 847-600-0102 for mold remediation services.  Our technicians are certified in mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Winnetka/Wilmette/Skokie will then come to your home to go over the scope of work, take pictures, and measurements.  We will then supply you and your insurance company with an estimate for the required work. We will also work with your insurance carrier to determine if the necessary coverages are available to you.

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Winnetka/Wilmette/Skokie at 847-600-0102 if you suspect mold growth in your home.