The balmy Florida climate is ideal for many things, but unfortunately, it can also be a breeding ground for mold. If you discover mold in your Tampa home, addressing it quickly is essential to protect your health and property. Without proper insurance coverage and prompt claim processing, you could face a hefty mold remediation bill.
Insurance policies can shoulder the cost
The price of mold remediation depends on many variables, such as:
- How severe is the infestation?
- How big is the affected area?
- What are the materials involved?
For small mold problems, you might only pay a few hundred dollars. But for large remediation projects, the cost can jump to several thousand dollars. This often covers inspections, containment, removal and repairs. Thankfully, many homeowners’ insurance policies can cover mold damage with some exceptions.
In general, coverage applies to sudden or accidental mold growth caused by covered perils, such as a burst pipe or roof leak. Some policies may exclude mold resulting from negligent care such as gradual leaks or poor maintenance. You may be solely responsible for the remediation costs if you lack proper insurance coverage.
Filing a mold damage claim
It is crucial to understand the specifics of your policy. If your home suffers mold damage due to a covered event, the best course of action is to file a claim with your insurance company. There are usually deadlines for filing claims, so contact your insurer upon discovering mold. If they deny your claim, you can negotiate with them or seek legal counsel to understand your options.