Why the cause matters to coverage
Many homeowner policies treat mold differently depending on its source. Mold resulting from a sudden, accidental water event that is itself covered, such as a burst supply line, is more likely to be addressed than mold from a long-term leak, chronic humidity or poor maintenance. Many policies also cap mold-related payments at a set limit.
That makes the story of the water event important. When did it start, when was it found, what was done right away and how was the source fixed? Record those details while they are fresh, and keep everything in one place.
Documenting from the start
Make it safe and stop the water
Shut off the water if safe; stay away from wet electrical equipment and call the utility or 911 for any hazard.
Photograph before cleanup
Wide shots of each room, then close-ups of stains, growth and damaged items, with something for scale.
Write the timeline
Note when the problem was discovered, by whom, and anything you know about when it started.
Notify the insurer promptly
Most policies require prompt notice; ask for a claim number and the adjuster's contact.
Mitigate reasonable further damage
Policies generally expect you to prevent more damage, such as stopping the leak and starting drying.
Keep these in the claim file
- Photos and video, with dates
- The plumber's or roofer's invoice describing the cause and repair
- Moisture readings and the remediation contractor's assessment
- The written remediation scope and any change orders
- Receipts for emergency purchases and temporary living costs, if any
- A list of damaged contents with descriptions and approximate age
- Notes of every conversation with the insurer: date, name and what was said
Policy sections to read
- Section
- Mold or fungi exclusion and limited coverage
- What to look for
- Whether mold is excluded, limited to a set amount, or covered when caused by a covered peril
- Section
- Water damage
- What to look for
- Distinctions between sudden discharge and continuous or repeated seepage
- Section
- Vacancy or unoccupancy
- What to look for
- Conditions that change coverage if the home was empty
- Section
- Additional living expense
- What to look for
- Whether costs of staying elsewhere during remediation are covered
- Section
- Scheduled personal property
- What to look for
- Coverage for art, jewelry, wine or collections listed separately
Questions for the adjuster
- Is the water event that caused the mold covered under my policy?
- Is there a mold limit, and what does it include, such as testing and rebuild?
- Do you need to inspect before materials are removed?
- Will you accept the remediation contractor's scope, or will you write your own estimate?
- How are contents and additional living expenses handled?
General information for Cherry Hills Village, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.