Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Damage?
Mold is one of the last things a homeowner wants to discover. Not only can it damage your home, but it can also create health risks for you and your family. If you find mold in your home, your first thought may be: “Will my homeowners insurance cover this?” The answer depends on the cause and your specific policy.
When Homeowners Insurance Covers Mold Damage
In most cases, mold damage is only covered by homeowners insurance if it results from a sudden and accidental covered peril. Examples include:
A burst pipe that leads to water damage and subsequent mold growth
Water from a malfunctioning appliance, such as a dishwasher or washing machine
Mold resulting from water used to extinguish a fire
In these scenarios, the mold is considered a consequence of a covered event, so your insurance may pay for remediation, subject to your deductible and policy limits.
When Mold Damage Is Not Covered
Insurance generally won’t cover mold caused by preventable maintenance issues or neglect. Common examples include:
Long-term leaks from pipes, roofs, or foundations
Poor ventilation that allows humidity to build up
Flood damage (which requires separate flood insurance)
If mold develops due to gradual problems or lack of upkeep, insurers consider it preventable — and it’s not covered.
Coverage Limits and Exclusions
Even when mold is covered, insurance companies often place sub-limits on how much they’ll pay. For example, a policy might cover only $5,000 of mold remediation, even if the full cost is higher. Additionally, some policies exclude mold coverage altogether unless you’ve added an endorsement.
This is why it’s important to review your policy with your agent to understand exactly what protection you have.
Preventing Mold in Your Home
Since coverage for mold is limited, prevention is key. Homeowners can reduce risks by:
Fixing leaks quickly
Running dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements
Using proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms
Cleaning and drying wet areas within 24–48 hours
These steps can not only help you avoid mold but also strengthen your case if you need to file a claim.
Mold Endorsements and Extra Coverage
Some insurance carriers offer optional mold endorsements that can increase coverage limits or expand the scenarios where mold is covered. If your home is in a humid climate or you’ve had past mold issues, it may be worth asking your agent about these add-ons for extra peace of mind.
How Hixson & Malinowski Insurance Can Help
As an independent insurance agency in Parma, Hixson & Malinowski Insurance can:
Review your current homeowners policy for mold coverage and limits
Explain exclusions and optional endorsements in plain language
Recommend the right coverage to fit your home and budget
Assist you if you ever need to file a mold-related claim
Conclusion
Mold is a costly and stressful problem, and insurance coverage for it can be tricky. While sudden water damage may be covered, gradual issues and neglect are usually excluded. Don’t wait until mold strikes — review your policy now to make sure you understand your protection. Contact Hixson & Malinowski Insurance to discuss your options.
