WATER & MOLD DAMAGE INSURANCE CLAIMS

Once you discover water or mold damage, take the following steps:

1. Mitigate the damage—this means preventing further harm by stopping the water source and drying out the area if possible.
2. Document the damage—take pictures and videos of the affected areas.
3. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
4. Seek expert advice to assess the extent of damage, which can be useful for your claim.
   Acting quickly can strengthen your claim and reduce the chances of it being denied due to neglect.

Many policies exclude coverage for gradual or long-term issues, such as damage caused by poor maintenance, wear and tear, or hidden mold that develops over time. Flood damage is often excluded unless you have specific flood insurance. Reviewing the exclusions section of your policy can help you understand which types of water damage may not be covered.

Insurance companies may argue that delays in discovering or reporting damage are signs of negligence. However, the reality is that water leaks and mold growth can go unnoticed, especially in hidden areas like behind walls or under floors. If you believe your claim has been unfairly denied for this reason, consulting an attorney can help you challenge the denial and provide evidence that the delay was reasonable.

If the insurance payout doesn’t cover your total repair costs, you don’t have to accept it. You can dispute the offer by providing additional evidence, such as independent repair estimates or expert evaluations. If negotiations stall, hiring a lawyer can increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement. The Murray Law Group specializes in advocating for policyholders and ensuring that insurance companies meet their obligations.

Yes, you can often file a claim for mold damage if the mold resulted from a covered water leak, as long as the water damage itself was reported and documented when it occurred. However, if the insurance company argues that the mold developed due to negligence or delayed maintenance, they may deny the claim. Having an experienced attorney to navigate these complexities can be crucial to getting your claim approved.

At The Murray Law Group, we understand the challenges homeowners face when dealing with water and mold damage claims. Our attorneys can help you by interpreting your policy, gathering evidence, negotiating with your insurance company, and if necessary, pursuing litigation to get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss the details of your claim and how we can support your recovery.