Mold is a costly problem that can creep up in your home if you aren’t proactive. Unless mold in your home can be directly attributed to some covered event like flooding or a burst pipe, mold testing and removal won’t be covered by your home insurance policy. Depending on the nature of the mold and its location, removal can be quite costly to homeowners and is generally an unexpected issue when discovered. Because of this, it is best to protect your home from moisture and dampness before mold has a chance to take root.
What Is Mold?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), molds can be found in every environment and can be detected year-round, both indoors and outdoors. Molds prefer warm, damp conditions and spores, which help spread mold, are resilient enough to survive harsh conditions that aren’t typical of supporting mold. There are an unknown number of mold species. Mold effects on humans varies from person to person and most commonly present themselves as allergies, though some people will be more susceptible and will display more severe symptoms when exposed to mold in the home.
How Does Mold Grow?
Of the many types of mold, none of them can grow without water or moisture. Mold spores, invisible to the eye, float through the air and attach themselves where there is moisture. Areas of the home like kitchen and bathrooms that do not have exhaust fans or proper ventilation are more susceptible to mold growth. Mold can grow in foundations that are cracked or damaged and in crawl spaces under homes where flooding has occurred. Particularly at risk are areas of the country that are humid many months of the year as mold thrives in these conditions.
How Can You Prevent Mold?
In order to prevent mold, you should try to make your home inhospitable to its growth. This means eliminating moisture as much as possible.
Inside
- Open windows and doors to provide ventilation.
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Fix leaks immediately.
- Improve insulation to cut down on condensation.
- Opt for tile or hardwood rather than carpet, especially in bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms.
- Use a dehumidifier to remove moisture you can’t prevent.
Outside
- Ensure that water drains away from your home.
- Clean gutters regularly and fix any breaks, cracks or unsecured areas.
- Remove standing water after heavy rains or flooding as quickly as possible.
If you believe you have a mold problem that was caused by a named peril, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Early detection of mold can mean significant time and financial savings. If you’re not satisfied with your current home insurance company or policy, consider shopping around for a new home insurance quote. They are free and easy and can help you make a more informed decision about your home insurance policy. Visit American Integrity Insurance at for a free, no obligation home insurance quote.