Home Insurance—Mold Damage

Mold damage is a pressing concern for homeowners, especially in areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall. Understanding how your home insurance policy may cover mold damage is essential for safeguarding your property and finances.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

Homeowners insurance might cover mold damage if it results from a covered peril, which may include:

• Burst water pipes—If a pipe bursts, causing water damage that leads to mold, your policy may cover the mold remediation costs.

• Roof leaks from storms—If a storm damages your roof and water intrusion leads to mold, your policy may cover the repairs and mold removal.

However, mold damage from neglect or lack of maintenance is usually not covered. For instance, your homeowner’s policy likely won’t cover mold damage caused by water seepage from poorly sealed doors or windows.

Insurance Endorsements for Additional Protection

To enhance your financial protection against mold damage, consider adding these endorsements to your policy:

• Flood Insurance—Many homeowners insurance policies don’t cover flood damage, including mold from flooding. Consider adding flood insurance for extra protection, but be sure you understand any coverage limitations.

• Sump pump failure and water backup damage—Water backup coverage might help cover the costs of cleanup, including mold, if there is a backup from a sewage or drain system or if a sump pump fails.

Preventing Mold in Your Home

To protect your home and family from the perils of mold, consider the following strategies:

• Fix leaks promptly—Address any leaks in your roof, pipes, or appliances as soon as they are detected to prevent water accumulation.

• Improve air circulation—Use fans and open windows to improve air circulation in your home to help keep surfaces dry.

• Control humidity—Use dehumidifiers in damp areas and ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce moisture levels. Clean and dry any water-affected areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Homeowners Insurance in Harvey, LA

Understanding your homeowners insurance policy and considering preventive strategies can help you better protect your home from mold damage. Contact Insurance Center of New Orleans today to review your coverage.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.