Many Americans live with mold in their home without realizing it. Knowing what steps to take to protect yourself and your home from mold is important. Here, we explain the common causes of mold and what to do if you find it in your home.
Mold damage is often caused by issues that are covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. However, most insurance companies will fight to deny your claim if they can or will attempt to pay you less than you deserve. If this happens to you, contact our mold damage lawyers today!
Mold Is Common and Harmful
Mold damage is a common problem, with around 70% of homes reported to have some form of mold growth. Mold can be brought into homes through open windows or doors, and airborne spores can attach themselves to coats or shoes or even be brought in by a pet. The mold then grows in dark and humid places like corners, behind walls, or under carpets.
There are multiple ways mold can be harmful, many being health concerns. Living in a home with mold growth can lead to wheezing, itchy skin or eyes, and respiratory problems, with harsher reactions for asthma-prone or immuno-compromised people.
Mold can also damage your home, leading to expensive repairs.
Steps to Take
Mold can cause damage to you and your family and should be dealt with quickly to mitigate any negative effects. You should have your home inspected as soon as you suspect there may be a mold problem. Take the following actions immediately:
- Take photos and videos: You should immediately take photos and videos of any water damage, property damage, or other issues that may have contributed to the issue. The images and videos can serve as evidence in your insurance claim.
- Examine the property: Use a trustworthy mold testing organization to learn the extent of the mold damage and what type of mold is on the property. You might need a microbiologist or industrial hygienist to remove mold from your place of business or employment.
- Notify the landlord or property manager: You should always communicate in writing with your landlord or property management and preserve thorough records of any written correspondence. You might have a case if the landlord knew of the issue before renting the house.
- Keep a detailed record: Make a list of everything mold has destroyed or damaged, and keep all receipts. These are important in negotiating compensation.
- Get medical help immediately: If you get ill from exposure to toxic mold, you need to seek immediate medical attention. It’s best to speak with a physician who treats mold-related illnesses, such as a pulmonologist, allergist, or toxicologist.
- Contact a property damage lawyer: Contact a Florida mold damage lawyer at Klotzman Property Damage Law to help you with your case.
Common Causes of Mold Damage
Mold can develop on anything, including paper, food, clothing, and carpet. It can also develop in areas that are difficult to detect, such as behind drywall, inside walls, around pipes, and on ceiling tiles. Mold issues are challenging to resolve and can lead to irritation, allergies, and, in a small percentage of cases, poisons that are harmful to your health.
Some of the most typical causes of mold are listed below.
Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes are among the main causes of mold growth in cabinets beneath sinks and behind walls. They can also lead to mold growth on your walls and ceilings. Leaks might occur from your water heater or the pipes in your roof. If any of these areas have mold growth, you should inspect your pipes for leakage.
Wet Basement
Basements inherently experience greater moisture because they are below ground. They are also more prone to excessive humidity levels because there isn’t adequate ventilation or airflow. For this reason, there is a higher chance for mold since it will grow wherever there is water and high humidity.
Condensation
Condensation may accumulate on cold surfaces in your home throughout the winter due to temperature variations. Metal pipes, concrete floors, floor tiles, and even brick walls are examples of cold surfaces. If condensation appears to be a significant issue in your home, ensure that each area receives sufficient airflow to remove the moisture.
Hurricane Water Damage
A hurricane can bring water into your house leading to significant damage and mold growth. Hurricane water can enter your home through the roof, windows, and doors or by flooding. Mold can develop in such circumstances, even if you cannot see or smell it. In addition, the water can damage electronics, furniture, walls, carpets, and floors.
Speak to the ExpertsÂ
Mold in homes is a common accident that can leave lasting effects on many Americans. If you have experienced this type of issue, it is vital to take action. We can help you determine your options based on your insurance coverage. We will investigate, negotiate, and litigate your case to get you the results you deserve.
Schedule your free case review today with our Florida property damage attorneys. When insurance companies fail, Klotzman Property Damage Law succeeds.
