Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

Mold isn’t just an unpleasant sight or musty smell—it can cause real harm to both your home and your health. Different types of mold can be more hazardous than others, and once it starts growing, it can spread quickly, especially in humid or water-damaged environments.

If you’ve ever discovered mold and wondered, “Does my homeowners insurance cover mold?”, the answer isn’t always simple. Coverage depends on how the mold formed and what’s included in your specific policy.

When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

In most cases, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover mold damage unless it’s the result of a covered peril—a specific event your policy protects against.

For example:
If a storm breaks a window and rain soaks your carpet, your homeowners insurance would likely cover the damage (minus your deductible), including any mold that develops as a direct result.

However, mold caused by ongoing leaks, humidity, or neglect usually isn’t covered. These are considered maintenance issues that fall under the homeowner’s responsibility.

Some insurers offer optional mold coverage riders or endorsements that expand your protection. These add-ons can be a smart investment since mold remediation can cost anywhere from $10 to $25 per square foot—and sometimes much more.

What About Flood-Related Mold?

It’s important to note that flood damage isn’t covered by standard homeowners policies. Even if mold growth results from flooding, your homeowners insurance won’t pay for cleanup.

To protect against flood-related mold, you’d need a separate flood insurance policy, which you can obtain through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private carriers. Still, even flood insurance has limits and typically won’t cover mold damage unless it was unavoidable despite proper cleanup efforts.

Why Some Mold Claims Get Denied

Insurance companies often deny mold claims if they determine that negligence led to the problem. If a slow leak, poor ventilation, or lack of maintenance caused the mold, the insurer may argue it could have been prevented.

In short, if the mold results from a sudden, accidental event (like a burst pipe), you may be covered. But if it grows from long-term neglect, you’re likely on your own for repairs.

How to File a Homeowners Insurance Claim for Mold

If you discover mold and think it might be covered, here’s what to do before filing a claim:

1. Stop the source of water immediately. Turn off your home’s water supply if necessary.
2. Dry affected areas quickly. Use fans and open windows to increase airflow.
3. Remove soaked items such as carpeting, insulation, or furniture to prevent further spread.
4. Clean with detergent to slow bacterial and mold growth.
5. Seal any openings (like broken windows or roof leaks) to stop additional water from entering.
6. Document everything. Take photos and videos from multiple angles.
7. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claim process.

These steps help show your insurer that you took responsible action to limit damage.

How to Prevent Mold in Your Home

While mold can’t always be avoided, you can greatly reduce your risk by staying proactive. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold exposure can trigger allergic reactions and worsen respiratory conditions, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

Here are some simple mold prevention tips:

• Clean up spills and leaks immediately.
• Regularly check pipes, hoses, and appliances for leaks.
• Use bleach-based cleaning products in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Install exhaust fans in high-humidity areas.
• Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 60%.
• Avoid letting water sit in houseplant trays.
• Inspect your roof, attic, and gutters regularly for leaks.
• Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed.

Small preventive measures can go a long way in avoiding costly damage later.

Protect Your Home from Mold with TGS Insurance Agency

Understanding whether your homeowners insurance covers mold is crucial for protecting your home and finances. At TGS Insurance Agency, our experts can help you review your current coverage, identify gaps, and find a policy that fits your needs—and your budget.

We’ll compare rates from top-rated carriers to help you get the best coverage for your home, including protection against mold-related damage.

Contact TGS Insurance Agency today to see how much you could save—and protect your home before mold becomes a problem.