Will homeowners insurance cover black mold?
What "black mold" means
People often use the term for Stachybotrys chartarum, a dark mold that grows on materials that stay wet, such as soaked drywall and ceiling paper. But many common molds are dark, and color alone does not identify the species. Policies do not distinguish by species; the question is always where the water came from.
When it may be covered
- A storm opened the roof, rain soaked the ceiling, and mold grew despite prompt drying.
- A supply line burst inside a wall and mold followed.
When it is usually excluded
- A slow roof leak that went on for weeks
- Attic sheathing that is dark from condensation and poor ventilation
- Bathrooms and crawlspaces with chronic humidity
Testing and health
If anyone in the home has asthma, allergies or a weakened immune system, keep them away from the area and get professional advice. Disturbing mold spreads spores. Testing can document the extent for a claim, but whether the policy pays for testing varies.
Making a claim
Report the original water event, not just the mold. Provide the date of the storm or leak, photos of the roof or plumbing source, proof you started drying, and the remediation estimate. Ask your agent for the mold sublimit in dollars. See interior water damage coverage and mitigation duties.