This article will explore whether a home warranty covers mold, and the extent of the coverage provided. Mold is a common issue that can cause significant damage to a home and lead to health problems, so it is important to understand what protection a home warranty can offer homeowners in such situations. But before we get too involved, let's discuss mold and why it's such as issue. Then we can fairly answer the question: Does a home warranty cover mold infestations?
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in multicellular filaments called hyphae. It thrives in moist conditions and can be found on food, walls, fabrics, and various surfaces. Molds reproduce by releasing spores, which can cause allergies and health issues in some individuals.
Fungi, such as mold, aid in breaking down organic matter like leaves and plants, but they can also damage wood framing and structures.
All forms of mold directly benefit humans; they help humanity survive by breaking down dead organic matter. It's part of the life cycle here on earth, therefore, beneficial to all living creatures. Some genera of mold are extremely helpful to humans. Penicillium mold (Penicillin) comes to mind. Penicillin, which is made from Penicillium mold, has saved untold lives since its discovery and development of antibiotics, but the mold itself is dangerous in its live form.
If mold grows in your home, it can be a significant physical and mental burden. When exposed to black mold for an extended period of time, you may experience severe physical symptoms like respiratory issues, sinus issues, headaches, disorientation, tremors, seizures, Aspergillosis Disease, and a host of other medical issues. Mental stress comes from having your home invaded and the problems associated with having it removed. Even your furry friends are susceptible to potentially severe health issues.
Does a Home Warranty Cover Mold?
I've never run across a home warranty that covered mold. It's standard practice with these warranties to remove any type of mold coverage for several reasons. To understand this issue clearly, we must look at how mold proliferates in the average home. Mold grows when spores in the air land on an organic food source that involves moisture. Mold feasts on organic matter, but they can't get up, go to the fridge, and grab something cold to drink while eating. Therefore, they look for buffets that already include drinks, namely moisture.
That's a lot of factors stacked against a home warranty company.
Plumbing issues or leaks throughout the house cause the majority of water damage and mold infestations in the modern home. Plumbing failures that are covered by homeowners insurance take care of over 90% of all water damage and mold-related incidents. Therefore, there is no need for a home warranty to cover mold or water damage when your insurance already covers it.
What is Covered by a Home Warranty?
A builder usually gives home warranties when building a new house for someone, but you can purchase one when buying any home. This protects the homeowner from bearing the expense of a faulty new water heater that was installed during the build that quit working long before its lifecycle is complete, a faulty window that leaks, a trash compactor that was faulty from the beginning, or an improperly installed leaking roof, etc.
They usually cover faulty labor and products.
What is Not Covered by a Home Warranty?
As a homeowner, you can purchase a home warranty that covers many things, but faulty decision-making can and likely will void any claim for either mold or water damage. This could be something as simple as not doing proper or routine maintenance where needed. If you discovered that your sink had a slow leak and did nothing to correct the issue and you end up with water damage or mold infestations, you're at fault, and nobody will pay for the damages but you. If you let your gutters fill with debris and it overflows and damages your facia boards and soffit, no warranty, or insurance company will pay for that type of damage.
How To File A Claim For Mold Damage With Your Home Warranty Company?
With some policies, you can call a representative who will take your information and initiate the process of correcting the problem or denying the claim. In contrast, others want an email, a form filled, or another method to inform them that you are making a claim.
It's best to read your policy since they likely have instructions on how to file a claim.
Conclusion
While mold may be a formidable foe when fighting for your home and health, chances are a home warranty will be of little help or value when dealing with water damage and mold infestations. The best step you can make as a homeowner is to hire a handyman, builder, or contractor to do an annual home inspection to ensure everything is in working order, and correct anything questionable. It's also prudent to ensure your gutters are clean, your plumbing is inspected twice a year, and your roof is inspected once a year.
If you are adamant about these regular inspections and maintenance, you'll greatly decrease the odds of mold infestation or water damage in your residential home.
