Is Mould Removal Covered By Home Insurance?

CONTENTS

• Understanding mould and its impact
• Is there mould insurance coverage?
• How to identify mould in your home
• Professional vs DIY mould removal
• Preventing mould growth in your home
• Dealing with a mould outbreak
• The health risks associated with mould
• Frequently asked questions
• Get in touch

Living in a damp, musty room with unseen damage lurking behind your walls can be devastating. Mould can grow in your home without notice, gradually causing significant harm to your property and health. Although mould is common, some insurance companies may not cover you for this, so you must seek it out yourself.

ICE Cleaning is the UK's leading cleaning company for mould remediation solutions. We can offer an effective strategy that identifies the root cause of the growth, as well as bespoke solutions that ensure the complete removal, preventing its return. 

Read on to learn more about mould and if your insurance covers it.

Understanding mould and its impact

Mould is a fungus that thrives in moist surroundings and it can lead to serious damage in your home, attacking structures like wood and drywall. When left unchecked, mould can eat away at these materials, causing them to weaken or even crumble.

Beyond structural harm, mould also poses potential health risks. Breathing in the spores over time may lead to respiratory issues such as coughing or wheezing and worsen conditions like asthma.

Is there mould insurance coverage?

Knowing if mould removal is covered by your insurance is something you must investigate yourself. Typically, standard home insurance policies do not cover mould damage. But, if the mould has resulted from a burst pipe or storm flooding, you could make a claim.

If you do not understand your policy’s terms and conditions regarding mould remediation, it is best to ask directly. Preventing future outbreaks could save time and money down the line.

How to identify mould in your home

Mould can often go unnoticed until it has caused considerable damage. It thrives in damp areas and spreads via airborne spores once it matures. There are several signs to look out for if mould has infested your home.

The first clue is usually a musty smell, which usually means mould growing somewhere. Visual cues include discolouration on walls or ceilings, like black or green patches.

Condensation on windows can also signal excessive moisture levels, which encourage mould growth. If you are struggling to identify mould, professional mould remediation services offer expert help and advice.

Professional vs DIY mould removal

You should contact professional mould removal experts if you spot mould, even though you may want to do it yourself. However, DIY solutions can be less effective and may even exacerbate the mould infestation.

If you are dealing with minor surface mould, DIY methods like baking soda and vinegar can remove it, but they cannot attack the root cause. Professional help may be needed for larger outbreaks or hidden mould problems. 

Professional companies have the experience and tools to tackle stubborn infestations safely and effectively. While professional services might seem expensive initially, their solutions are more effective and can prevent their return.

Preventing mould growth in your home

Controlling moisture levels is key to stopping mould before it starts. To maintain a dry environment in your living space, repairing any ageing or leaking pipes, installing a dehumidifier, and enhancing air circulation throughout can help.

To further protect against mould, consider using anti-mould paint or sealant on walls. These products contain fungicides that prevent the growth of mould spores. Cleaning regularly also helps maintain a mould-free environment. 

By paying attention to damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens where mould can thrive, you can prevent the beginning of an infestation. A clean, well-ventilated home is essential for good health and mould prevention.

Dealing with a mould outbreak

If you spot mould, your first move should be to call professionals. Mould removal experts can help prevent mould from returning by identifying the root cause. This may be due to water damage or poor ventilation, which can be resolved with a damp survey.

You will also need to check if the damage is covered by your insurance policy. Some policies cover mould damage, but you must clarify this early on. While waiting for help, keep areas well-ventilated and dry where possible, and avoid touching mould as it can pose serious health risks.

The health risks associated with mould

Mould exposure can cause a variety of health issues. From triggering allergic reactions to causing respiratory problems, it is clear that mould is not safe to live with. It is essential to act fast if you spot any indications of mould in your dwelling for the sake of your health.

Mould spores can easily be inhaled and trigger allergies, leading to symptoms like sneezing, red eyes, and skin rash. People may suffer extreme reactions, for example having difficulty breathing or suffering asthma attacks, if mould spores are inhaled.

If you are dealing with persistent cold-like symptoms or finding yourself unusually tired all the time, consider checking your home for hidden patches of mould growth.

Frequently asked questions

Is mould removal covered by house insurance?

Typically, house insurance does not cover mould removal. But, if the mould is due to a covered peril like burst pipes, it may be.

Is damp and mould covered by insurance?

Damp and mould are generally not covered unless they result from a sudden event already included in your policy, such as flooding or storm damage.

How much does it cost to get rid of mould?

The cost can vary widely depending on severity; expect anywhere between £50 to £2000. Professionals will price up based on situation specifics.

How do you get rid of mould permanently?

To permanently remove mould, tackle moisture issues first. Ventilate properly, fix leaks promptly and consider professional help for severe cases.

Get in touch

Our mould removal services come with a lifetime guarantee*, where our technicians will return to the property if the mould begins growing again. Our professionals at ICE Cleaning are leading the way for mould solutions, utilising advanced technology to effectively identify, remove, and prevent mould.

To learn more about our mould services, reach out to our team at 0208 066 0360 or enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk. We work closely with local councils, adhering to Awaab's Law, and provide emergency mould removal services 24/7, 365 days a year, nationwide.

*subject to advisories