Can My Mold Claim be Denied?

When it comes to filing a mold claim, many people often find themselves navigating through the complexities of their insurance policy agreement with little-to-no guidance. The question on most policyholders’ minds is often: can my mold claim be denied? The answer is not straightforward, as mold claims tend to have a reputation for being some of the most complicated claims to process. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common reasons why mold claims are denied, and provide some tips on how to avoid them.

Reasons for Mold Claim Denial

One of the most common reasons for mold claims being denied is the clause in most policies regarding gradual damage. If the presence of mold is due to a problem that wasn’t addressed in a timely manner- like a slow leak- it may be considered a maintenance issue and result in denial of the claim. The burden of proving that the loss was sudden and accidental falls on the policyholder, so it’s important to have evidence of the event leading to the mold growth.

Negligence

Another reason that a mold claim may be denied is due to negligence on the policyholder’s part. Insurance companies expect homeowners to take preventive measures, like fixing leaks, cleaning gutters, and properly ventilating bathrooms and kitchens. Lack of maintenance and regular upkeep in a home that results in mold growth may result in a denial.

Insufficient Documentation

When it comes to filing a mold claim, the more documentation and evidence you can provide, the better. Insurance companies need detailed information about the source of the mold, the extent of the damage, and the steps taken to remedy the issue. Failure to provide this level of documentation can lead to denial.

Exclusions

Lastly, it’s important to remember that not all homeowner’s insurance policies cover mold damage. Depending on the insurance company, mold damage may be considered a separate issue and require a separate policy. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what your policy covers, or if you need additional coverage for mold damage.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, whether or not your mold claim gets approved depends on a number of factors, including the details of your policy agreement, and how well you can document the damages. Working with an experienced insurance loss adjuster is typically the easiest way to navigate the claims process and ensure you have all the documentation you need to make your claim. If you're looking for an insurance loss adjuster in Orlando, FL, contact Five Star Claims Adjusting today to schedule a free inspection. Don’t wait until it's too late- make sure you have the protection you need to protect yourself from the often costly and devastating effects of mold damage.