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Most homeowners recognize the importance having snug,
dry home. Now there's a reason to put more emphasis
on keeping it dry….toxic mold. A certain form of
mold, called Stachybotrys (pronounced stakki-botris),
is appearing in more headlines. Unfortunately, the mold,
which is capable of causing illness in humans, is also
becoming a familiar topic in courtrooms.
Toxic mold, like other more common molds (such as penicillin),
is found indoors and can grow on nearly any type of
damp or wet surface including wood floors, carpeting,
tiles, drywall, paneling, insulation, etc. The only
conditions necessary for its formation is moisture,
food (organic material) and time. Besides mold's ability
to physically damage a home (staining, warping, deterioration),
the spores from this type of mold can become airborne,
making people susceptible to developing allergic or
respiratory symptoms. Research is ongoing to determine
whether mold exposure may also cause more serious health
problems.
Damage to a home or its occupants that is caused by
toxic mold is typically excluded. Insurance policies
are designed to handle accidental causes of loss and
items such as mold infestation, rusting and rotting
are seen as home maintenance issues. However, in one
notorious court case, a family in Texas was awarded
several million dollars because its insurer allegedly
mishandled a loss, creating a condition that allowed
the growth and spread of toxic mold.
Rather than be concerned over the possibility of insurance
coverage, prevention is the best course of action. Inspect
in and around your home, looking for indications of
moisture. Correct any conditions that could cause moisture
build-up such as leaky roofs or plumbing, condensation,
leaking appliances, etc. Keep your home snug and dry
and avoid a moldy problem.
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