Experienced Mold Damage Lawyer Serving Florida
How Can Mold Attorneys in Florida Help You?
Florida’s abundant rain and humidity cause mold growth in many homes, especially when there is an insulation or ventilation issue. Mold may also spread because of a hidden dripping pipe, a roof leak, or a natural cause like hurricanes or flooding.
If you’ve suffered from the effects of toxic mold exposure, call the mold attorneys at EC Law Counsel at (954) 740-6333. Our skilled mold damage lawyer in Florida will assess your options and help you recover funds to pay for your mold remediation.
Why Is Mold So Prevalent in Florida?
Mold is particularly prevalent in Florida due to the state’s warm, humid climate, which creates the perfect environment for mold growth. With average temperatures consistently high and humidity levels often exceeding 70%, Florida provides the moisture and warmth that mold needs to thrive.
Frequent rainstorms, tropical weather, and the potential for hurricanes further contribute to damp conditions, especially in homes and buildings that may experience leaks or flooding. Florida’s coastal location means saltwater and high water tables can worsen moisture problems as well. This makes it hard to keep indoor spaces dry.
Another factor is the state’s architecture and construction practices, which often include energy-efficient, tightly sealed buildings to combat heat. While this helps with cooling, it can also trap moisture inside, creating an ideal breeding ground for mold.
Poor ventilation in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements can further worsen the problem. Combined with Florida’s lush vegetation and frequent outdoor-to-indoor movement, which can carry mold spores inside, these conditions make mold a persistent issue for residents and property owners.
What is Mold Insurance?
Mold insurance is a type of coverage that helps protect homeowners and property owners from costs related to mold damage. Typically, mold insurance is not a standalone policy but is included as part of a standard homeowners’ or property insurance policy, often with specific limitations.
Coverage for mold-related issues depends on the cause of the mold and the terms of the policy. For example, if mold results from a covered peril, such as a burst pipe or roof leak caused by a storm, the insurance may cover the cost of mold remediation and repairs. However, mold caused by neglect, poor maintenance, or long-term moisture issues is generally excluded.
Common Restrictions on Mold Insurance
Most policies that include mold coverage have strict limits on the amount they will pay for mold remediation, testing, and repairs. These limits can range from a few thousand dollars to higher amounts, depending on the insurer and the policy. Some insurers offer optional endorsements or riders that allow policyholders to purchase additional mold coverage for an extra premium. This can be particularly beneficial in areas prone to high humidity or frequent water damage, where the risk of mold growth is higher.
Issues Mold Insurance Covers
Mold insurance typically covers the cost of removing mold, repairing or replacing damaged structures, and addressing the source of the moisture that caused the mold. It may also cover testing to ensure the mold has been fully eradicated.
However, it’s important to note that coverage often excludes personal belongings, such as furniture or clothing, unless explicitly stated in the policy. Additionally, health-related claims, such as medical expenses due to mold exposure, are generally not covered under homeowners’ insurance.
How to Maximize Mold Insurance Coverage
To maximize mold insurance coverage, homeowners should act quickly to address water damage and prevent mold growth. Insurers often require policyholders to take reasonable steps to mitigate damage, such as drying out wet areas and repairing leaks promptly. Failure to do so could result in denied claims. Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and the use of dehumidifiers can also help reduce the risk of mold and ensure compliance with policy requirements.
How to Spot a Toxic Mold Problem
Toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) thrives in high-moisture conditions. It often grows on building materials rich in cellulose, such as drywall. Some strains of black mold produce harmful mycotoxins that can cause a range of serious health problems, including allergies, respiratory issues, and even mold infections.
Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours of a water leak and can cause serious health problems if not addressed promptly. If you suspect that there may be mold in your property, it is important to take steps to address the issue as soon as possible.
This may include removing any standing water, drying out any wet materials, and cleaning and disinfecting any affected areas. If the mold growth is widespread or the affected area is large, it may be necessary to hire a professional mold remediation company to address the issue.
What Does Black Mold Look Like?
Black mold can be hard to detect unless you spot visible growth. Your house may harbor mold colonies if you notice:
- Signs of moisture, like bubbling paint or rotting wooden floorboards
- Discoloration or black spots on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Poor air circulation in the attic
- A musty smell in humid places like the cabinet under your kitchen sink. A strong, musty odor can indicate the presence of mold.
- Inexplicable allergies and asthma that may get better after you’ve spent a few days away from home
It is important to note that even if you do not see or smell mold, you may still have mold growing in your home, particularly in areas that are not easily visible, such as inside walls or in the attic. A professional can check those areas as well and provide a comprehensive assessment.
Does Your Insurance Policy Cover Mold Damage?
Mold damage coverage depends on the terms of your specific insurance policy. For example, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover mold damage that develops because of flooding, a common issue for many Floridians.
Typically, homeowners’ insurance should cover mold damage if the mold growth occurred because of accidental water damage, like a burst pipe. An insurer may refuse to cover damage that happened due to a lack of maintenance, such as a leaking faucet that the homeowner should reasonably have known about but didn’t fix.
EC Law Counsel can help you understand your insurance terms and find out what type of compensation you may expect.
Why You Need a Mold Damage Attorney in Florida
Mold damage claims are notoriously complicated, especially when property damage overlaps with personal injuries. Insurance companies will often try to claim that the mold issue resulted from circumstances that the homeowner’s policy doesn’t cover. Your insurer may even accuse you of causing the mold problem yourself due to a lack of regular upkeep or maintenance.
Property damage and personal injury lawyers know how insurance companies work and how to forward your claim. Homeowners in Florida choose EC Law Counsel for:
- 11 years of experience in mold and water damage claims
- Extensive knowledge of the insurance industry
- A personal approach and full attention to each case
- Fast, reliable legal support for both new and denied claims
EC Law Counsel: Helping You Forward Your Mold Damage Claim in Florida
Are you struggling with a complicated mold damage insurance claim? Is your insurer refusing to provide adequate funds to repair your mold damage? Contact EC Law Counsel today. We will examine your policy coverage, negotiate with your insurer, and use every available legal tool to help you reach a fair settlement.
For a free consultation with a mold damage lawyer in Florida, call (954) 740-6333 or fill out our online form.