Who Pays for Mold Removal?
Who pays for mold removal? The short answer is, “It depends.” Mold, unfortunately, is a common problem in homes and buildings, and it can cause serious health issues if left untreated. If you see mold on your property, you may be wondering who is responsible for paying for its removal. In this guide, we’ll explore the different scenarios where mold removal may be necessary and who is responsible for the costs.
When Is mold removal necessary?
Mold can grow in any area of your property with moisture, such as a bathroom, kitchen, or basement. It can also grow in areas where there has been water damage, such as after a flood or a leak. Some common signs of mold include:
- A musty odor
- Visible mold growth
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Respiratory problems
- Other unexplained health issues
If you suspect mold on your property, getting it tested and removed as soon as possible is essential to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.
Who is responsible for mold removal?
The responsibility for paying for mold removal depends on the cause of the mold growth and who is responsible for maintaining the property. Here are some common scenarios:
Landlords and Tenants
If you’re a tenant and discover mold in your rental property, you should notify your landlord or property manager immediately. It’s their responsibility to ensure that the property is safe and habitable. They should arrange for a mold inspection and, if necessary, mold removal. The cost of mold removal will usually be the responsibility of the landlord.
If you’re a landlord, you should stop mold growth by fixing leaks and ensuring your rental properties have enough ventilation. If you fail to do so, and your tenant suffers health issues due to mold growth, you may be liable for the costs of mold removal and any damages resulting from the mold exposure.
Homeowners and Insurance Companies
If you own your home and discover mold, you may be responsible for paying for the mold removal yourself. However, if the mold growth results from a covered event, such as a burst pipe or a roof leak, your homeowner’s insurance may cover the mold removal cost.
It’s important to review your insurance policy carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. Some policies may have exclusions for mold damage or limit the coverage for mold removal.
Contractors and Builders
If you’ve recently had construction work done on your property, and you discover mold as a result of the work, you may be able to hold the contractor or builder responsible for the cost of the mold removal. This will depend on the terms of your contract and whether the contractor or builder is responsible for any resulting mold growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does insurance cover mold removal?
A: It depends on your insurance policy. Some homeowners’ insurance policies will cover mold removal if it results from a covered event, such as a burst pipe. However, many policies have exclusions for mold damage or limit the amount of coverage for mold removal. Reviewing your policy carefully and speaking to your insurance company if you have any questions is important.
Q: How much does mold removal cost?
A: The mold removal cost will depend on the extent of the mold growth and the method used to remove it. According to research, the average cost of mold removal is $2,362, but it can range from $500 to $6,000 or more. At Pure Maintenance of Texas, we’re typically 30 – 50% less expensive than traditional mold remediation.
Q: Can I remove the mold myself?
A: It’s possible to remove small amounts of mold using household cleaners and bleach. However, if the mold growth is extensive, it’s best to hire a professional mold removal company.
Q: How do I choose a professional mold removal company?
A: When choosing a professional mold removal company, it’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable company with experience in mold remediation. Look for companies that have been certified by groups like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI). You can also check online reviews and ask for references from past customers.
Q: How can I prevent mold growth in my home or property?
A: To prevent mold growth, it’s important to control moisture levels in your property. This can be done by fixing leaks, maintaining proper ventilation, and using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity. It’s also essential to clean up any water damage promptly and dry out the affected area within 24–48 hours to prevent mold growth.
In conclusion, who is responsible for the cost of mold remediation will depend on the source of the problem and who normally maintains the property. If you are a tenant and find mold in your rental property, you should notify your landlord or property manager immediately.
If mold growth results from a covered loss, your homeowner’s insurance may pay to have it removed. You might be able to recover the cost of mold remediation from the contractor or builder if the work they did on your property was recently completed. To prevent mold growth, it’s important to control moisture levels in your property and address any water damage promptly.
If you’re looking for experienced mold prevention and removal experts, Pure Maintenance of Texas is the perfect solution. Get in touch with us today to discover more about our cost-effective dry fog mold removal service and how we can help keep your property safe from damaging mold growth!
