Homeowner Mold Claims
Most homeowner’s insurance policies try to limit or exclude how much insurance coverage you have against mold removal or remediation. Many policies in Florida limit this coverage to just $10,000. It is important to check your policy to understand how much coverage you have for mold, taking into account the amount of your insurance deductible. However, coverage can be extended beyond the mold limit if the source of the mold occurred from another covered loss such as a sudden pipe burst. If the mold is the consequence of another covered loss, then you may been fully covered. Insurance companies will often attempt to deny mold coverage by stating that the homeowner’s lack of maintenance or neglect was the reason for the damage. For these reasons, we recommend you contact our mold lawyers for a free consultation to ensure you receive the full benefits of the insurance coverage you paid for.
Health Symptoms of Mold Exposure
The effect of mold on your health
Although every person has a different health reaction to mold exposure, certain symptoms have been recognized as common among individuals who have been exposed to toxic mold or are living in a water damaged environment. Common health concerns which typically result from mold exposure include: asthma, allergic reactions, mucus build-up, difficulty breathing, respiratory infections, wheezing, chronic cough, bronchitis, chest pain, sinus pain or pressure, extreme fatigue, skin reactions, nose bleeds and headaches.
In addition, certain types of people may be more sensitive to the exposure to toxic mold. These people include: people with existing respiratory conditions, such as allergies, chemical sensitivities, or asthma; persons with weakened immune systems (such as HIV infected persons, cancer chemotherapy patients, and so forth) ; and (c) infants, young children, and older persons. These types of people are more likely to suffer more severe symptoms than someone with a healthy, and normal functioning immune system.
Are Some Molds More Hazardous Than Others?
Although any type of mold can cause sickness, certain types of molds may be more dangerous because of their toxicity and their ability to produce mycotoxins. Molds the produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum typically grow in residences. These toxic molds carry mycotoxins on their spores. If these molds are disturbed, they can release large amounts of mycotoxins into the air. The main way people are exposed to mycotoxins in their homes is by breathing the mycotoxins in. Normally, there is always a very small amount of mycotoxins in the air everywhere. However, when there is toxic mold in residences, there is a much greater amount of mycotoxins in the air.
Do you have a mold problem?
If you believe you have a mold problem in your residence, contact our mold attorneys for a free, no-obligation consultation of your case. Read our guide of what to do if you have a mold problem in your residence. If you believe your health has suffered or you have incurred other damages, contact our mold attorneys for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
How Does Mold Grow
In order for mold to grow, it requires a water source. Typically, mold will present itself after the occurrence of water damage or hidden water leaks. Although you may see visible mold growth or a musty mold odors, sometimes mold grows behind walls, underneath flooring, in the ceilings, or even in your air conditioning ducts. When mold gets into your air conditioning duct system, this can result in you inhaling the mold when you breathe and can result in the development of asthma, allergies and respiratory infections including the triggering of asthma, an increased wheeze, cough, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms.