What to do if you suspect you have mold in your home.

It is crucial to keep homes dry because water and moisture become real problems whenever they are found outside of where intended. One serious problem is mold, specifically toxic or black mold. A certain form of mold, called Stachybotrys (pronounced stakki-botris), continues to be an issue in many homes and, later, in courtrooms as persons suffering from infestation attempt to get insurance coverage. The CDC describes Stachybotrys as a greenish-black mold that prefers to grow on materials made of cellulose content, such as fiberboard, gypsum board, and paper. The CDC also states that it is not important to determine the exact type of mold in your home as all mold should be removed once discovered.

Where to look for mold in the home

Many types of molds are found indoors and can grow on nearly any type of wet surface including wood floors, carpeting, tiles, drywall, paneling, and even insulation inside the walls and crawlspaces. The only conditions necessary for its formation is moisture, food (organic material), and of course time. Favorite surfaces for mold growth include paper, cardboard, fabric furniture upholstery and clothing, ceiling tiles, shower walls, wood products, drywall, carpeting, dust, and insulation. Besides mold's ability to physically damage a home (staining, warping, deterioration), mold spores can easily become airborne, making people susceptible to developing allergic or respiratory problems, which can have detrimental effects on your family's health. Research has attributed some significant health problems caused by extended exposure to mold. Persons most affected by indoor mold are those who already have a higher level of sensitivity, such as persons with allergies and sinus issues.

Mold insurance coverage

Damage to a home or its occupants that is caused by mold is typically excluded from most insurance policies and coverages. Insurance policies are designed to handle accidental causes of loss and items such as mold infestation, rusting, and rotting are seen as home maintenance issues. However, in one notorious court case, a family in Texas was awarded several million dollars because its insurer allegedly mishandled a loss, creating a condition that allowed the growth and spread of toxic mold throughout the home.

Mold prevention with regular home care

Rather than be concerned over the possibility of insurance coverage, prevention is the best course of action. Inspect in and around your home, looking for indications of moisture. Correct any conditions that could cause moisture build-up such as leaky roofs or plumbing, condensation, and leaking appliances. Since there are many concealed areas in a home that are capable of harboring mold, an inspection may be prudent. There are many services available for both professional inspection and, if needed, remediation.

Keep your home snug and dry and avoid a moldy problem. Mold is no laughing matter and should be handled by trained professionals. If you feel your home may have a mold problem you should contact your local mold and remediation company or contact your Williams Insurance Experts for advisement on your current insurance policies and coverages.


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