Is Mold Damage Caused by Floods Covered by Flood Insurance in Massachusetts?

 Hurricane Irene flooding via renegadehealth.com

After Hurricane Irene caused widespread flooding in parts of Massachusetts recently, many insurance policy holders were concerned as to whether or not mold damage was covered by their flood insurance in Massachusetts. The state’s National Flood Insurance says mold subsequent to a flooding event may be covered, but each claim is assessed on a case by case basis. The policy holder is responsible for making a reasonable effort to prevent the growth of mold.

In certain conditions mold can grow at a rapid rate and by the time it’s safe to return to your home mold may have already spread. Before removing moldy materials such as carpets or cleaning walls take photographs for insurance purposes. Here are the basic steps for mold clean up:

• Remove porous materials that are water soaked and already contaminated by mold. Look for things such as insulation, plaster, sheetrock, carpet and ceiling tiles.
• Mold can grow on non-porous or semi porous materials like concrete, glass, hard plastic or metal but it can usually be carefully cleaned off. Solid wood items that remain structurally sound may also be saved through cleaning.
• Fill a gallon bucket with plain water and add ¼ to ½ cup household bleach. Sponge over walls where mold growth was visible before cleaning. Allow the solution to dry on the surfaces.

Don’t wait for an insurance assessor to see your home before you attempt to clean up because the longer the mold is left the harder it is to control. Speak to your flood insurance in Massachusetts agent as soon as possible after damage has occurred to establish what activities you may need to undertake prior to the insurance assessor attending. With DiVirgilio Insurance, you can get the coverage you need if you ever experience flood damage. Contact us today for more information!