Mold Damage

Legal Assistance for Mold Damage Reimbursement

Tips from a Mold Damage Lawyer: Winning Your Case

Mold damage is nothing to sneeze at, but it just might be the reason you are sneezing. Living spaces impacted by mold could have structural damage and also cause serious health concerns for residents. If you have found mold in your home, your homeowners or renters insurance is likely to have provisions for coverage. That being said, there is also a good chance the insurer will try to get out of covering the damage. This is where a mold damage lawyer can make a huge difference in your mold-related expenses.

Florida Mold Statistics

Mold is not an uncommon problem in Florida. Humid and tropical conditions can create the perfect environment for the moisture that mold needs to survive. Mold can grow on many organic surfaces, including wallpaper, drywall, insulation, ceilings, carpet, and roofs. Over 5,000 species of mold have been identified, 150 of which can cause allergies in humans. Of those molds, about 50 can grow inside the human body, and the same number are capable of creating fungal metabolites called “mycotoxins,” which have the potential to cause toxic reactions in healthy individuals.

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Florida Mold Statistics

Mold is not an uncommon problem in Florida. Humid and tropical conditions can create the perfect environment for the moisture that mold needs to survive. Mold can grow on many organic surfaces, including wallpaper, drywall, insulation, ceilings, carpet, and roofs. Over 5,000 species of mold have been identified, 150 of which can cause allergies in humans. Of those molds, about 50 can grow inside the human body, and the same number are capable of creating fungal metabolites called “mycotoxins,” which have the potential to cause toxic reactions in healthy individuals.

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Taking into account both precipitation and humidity

Florida ranks as one of the moldiest states in the nation. Of the top 25 most humid cities in the United States according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, six of the cities are in Florida. There is a good chance that you are living with some degree of mold in your Florida home.

Common Sign of Mold in Your Florida Home

Most of the time mold goes undetected and is not harmful in small amounts. Unfortunately, molds can grow quickly in Florida climates. Being diligent about recording when you first noticed the mold could help you when you are figuring out how to win a mold case. Here are some things to look out for when living in humid Florida conditions.

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  • Mold Odor

    Not all molds produce a smell, but some do. This smell is often musty or earthy and is persistent despite taking out the garbage.

  • Visible Mold Growth

    Mold can take on many different forms and colors. White, green, grey-brown, grey-green, and black are common mold colors. Mold that grows behind vinyl and wallpaper could be purple, orange, or pink. As a rule of thumb, any discoloration in a moist area could be mold.

  • Signs of Water Damage

    Long-term moisture is the perfect environment for mold. Look for signs of water stains, warped construction materials, and bubbling or peeling paint. Soft spots on floors are also an indication of water damage. Past flooding is a likely indicator of water damage.

  • Unexplained Illness

    Inhaling the gases emitted by mold can cause health problems such as coughing, sneezing, headaches, difficulty breathing, cold and flu symptoms, and more. These are often blamed on allergies or other external factors. Everyone has a different level of sensitivity to mold.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

Eliminating mold can be costly. Ideally, your homeowners or renters insurance will cover the cost of mold damage. A homeowners insurance policy protects your home’s structure from a variety of causes of loss. These are called “covered perils.” If one of these covered perils is the cause of the mold, the insurance company is responsible for the damage. Here is a list of common perils:

  • Windstorms and hail
  • Fire and smoke
  • Lightning
  • Water damage due to the weight of ice, snow, or sleet
  • Explosions
  • Vandalism
  • Damage from an aircraft or vehicle
  • Theft and
  • Falling objects

It is important to note

That flood insurance is not a part of general homeowners’ insurance. But if a storm caused water to enter the structure, that would be covered. Failing to maintain part of the structure, causing mold over time, may not be covered. This is why it is so important to have an experienced mold damage lawyer review your claim prior to filing with the insurance company.

Jennifer Pena

How Much Money Can You Get from a Mold Lawsuit?

You would only file a lawsuit for mold damage in Florida if your insurance claim was wrongfully denied. In a perfect world, the insurance company agrees that your mold was caused by a covered peril and they would offer a fair settlement for your repairs. Compensation for your claim is dependent upon the extent of the damages, your policy limits, and the cause of the damage. It is likely that you may have to pay for some repairs out of pocket.

Do You Need a Mold Damage Lawyer?

The insurance company will try to pay as little as possible. Remember, they already have an established legal team that understands their objectives. Don’t negotiate alone. We understand how difficult it can be to get the settlement you deserve for your home and health. You need a mold damage lawyer you can trust to fight on your behalf when the odds are stacked against you. Lady Law Group is a woman-owned and operated law firm caring for the needs of clients in South Florida. We are compassionate and focused on getting you the insurance settlement you are entitled to. We are happy to review your policy at any point, including before you even sign the policy contract. Contact us for your free case consultation.