Mold growth is not only gross to look at, but outbreaks in the home can also lead to health problems, including sneezing, runny nose and rashes.
There are at least 1,000 species of mold common to the United States, and the bad news is that it’s not covered by most homeowners insurance policies, according to bankrate.com. However, if caught early enough, mold shouldn’t too difficult to remove, and preventative measures will help stop the problem from reoccurring.
Here’s what you should do if you have a mold problem in your house:
Understand what causes mold growth
Molds can found in almost every environment, both indoors and outdoors year-round, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Molds reproduce when tiny spores, invisible to the naked eye, float through the air and land on wet surfaces.
Mold growth is encouraged by warm, moist conditions, meaning it is likely to be found in basements and bathrooms, as well as in shady, damp areas outdoors.
Eliminate the mold
If you have mold growing in your home, the cleanup process will depend on a number of factors. If the moldy area is less than 10 square feet, you can handle the problem yourself, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Otherwise, it may be advisable to call in an experienced professional. But no matter what the situation, it’s important to act as quickly as possible. The longer mold grows on a surface, the more damage it will cause.
The EPA explains that you should begin by fixing leaks or other water problems and drying the area completely. Then, mold can be removed with commercial products, soap and water or a bleach solution of one cup of bleach in one gallon of water, according to the CDC.
Remember to never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners, as it will produce toxic fumes. The CDC recommends opening windows to ventilate the area and wearing gloves and protective eyewear while cleaning. If the problem is significant, it may also be a good idea to wear a respirator to avoid inhaling spores.
Prevent the problem from reoccurring
The best way to deal with a mold problem is to prevent it from growing all together. Add mold inhibitors to paints before application and, most importantly, reduce the humidity in your home.
The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) recommends using a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep humidity levels between 30 and 60 percent. You should also install exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom and avoid carpeting damp areas such as basements and bathrooms.
Maintaining your gutters is also important for preventing leaks, so make sure to remove any debris regularly and make repairs as necessary.
Know what is and isn’t covered by insurance
If mold results from an unforeseen disaster such as a burst pipe, the cost of eliminating the problem may be covered by your insurance policy, according to the I.I.I.
However, if mold is caused by a flood, meaning water rose onto your land from outside, it will likely not be covered, according to Esurance. Flood damage is typically not covered by normal homeowners insurance and requires a separate flood insurance policy.