Introduction
Mold is more than just an unsightly issue—it can damage your home’s structure and negatively impact your health. If you’ve discovered mold in your house, one of your first questions might be: does homeowners insurance cover mold? The answer depends on the cause of the mold and the specifics of your policy. This guide will help you understand when mold damage is covered, when it isn’t, and how you can protect your home and finances.
Before you dive in, it’s helpful to review the basics in our article on Homeowners Insurance Explained.
1. When Homeowners Insurance Covers Mold
Most standard homeowners insurance policies will cover mold damage only if it results from a covered peril—an event explicitly included in your policy.
Covered scenarios may include:
- A sudden pipe burst that leads to water damage and mold
- Mold after storm damage where water enters through a broken roof or window
- Appliance leaks that are discovered and addressed quickly
In these cases, because the mold was caused by a sudden and accidental incident, your policy likely provides coverage—up to the limits stated.
2. When Mold Is Not Covered
Mold that develops due to long-term neglect, poor maintenance, or unresolved leaks typically isn’t covered. Homeowners insurance is not designed to pay for damage that results from situations you could have reasonably prevented.
Common exclusions include:
- Mold caused by high humidity or poor ventilation
- Leaky roofs, pipes, or windows that went unrepaired for too long
- Mold after a flood (this requires separate flood insurance)
If your home is in a flood-prone area, consider purchasing a separate policy through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.
3. Mold Coverage Limits and Endorsements
Even if mold is covered by your policy, your payout could be limited. Many insurers impose strict limits, often between $1,000 and $10,000, for mold remediation.
If you live in a humid climate or older home, ask your insurer about:
- Mold endorsements or riders to extend your coverage
- Additional premiums for expanded mold protection
- Specific limits on categories like mold testing, cleanup, and repairs
4. How to File a Mold Claim
If you discover mold from a covered event, here’s how to file a successful claim:
- Document everything – Take photos and videos of the mold and the surrounding area.
- Stop further damage – Use a dehumidifier or call a water mitigation company.
- Contact your insurance company – File your claim as soon as possible and provide all documentation.
- Schedule an inspection – The insurer may send an adjuster or request a mold assessment from a certified specialist.
Need help with the process? Follow our full step-by-step guide to filing a homeowners insurance claim.
5. Preventing Mold in Your Home
Mold prevention is not only smart—it can help you stay covered. Insurers expect reasonable maintenance from homeowners, and failure to prevent mold can result in denied claims.
Prevention tips:
- Fix leaks and plumbing issues immediately
- Keep indoor humidity below 50%
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens
- Ensure proper ventilation in basements and attics
- Clean and dry any water-damaged area within 24–48 hours
Conclusion
So, does homeowners insurance cover mold? Yes—but only in specific cases. If the mold is caused by a covered peril and you act quickly, your policy may help with cleanup costs. However, mold from long-term issues or poor maintenance is rarely included. Make sure to understand your policy limits, and consider adding mold endorsements if you live in a high-risk area.
Being proactive about moisture control, inspections, and repairs is the best defense. Talk to your insurance provider today to see what your current policy includes—and whether additional protection is worth it.