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Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Homeowner's insurance and mold

Most standard homeowner policies typically don't cover damage caused by rust, rot, mold or fungi.

  • Insurers generally consider mold a home maintenance issue.
  • If you have mold growing in your home, check with your agent about the specific circumstances, and how coverage might apply.
  • Some insurers provide a limited amount of mold coverage and some allow you to buy additional coverage for mold by adding an endorsement.

If you’re not sure whether you have coverage for mold, check your policy or ask your agent.

Protect your home from mold damage

Once mold spores settle in your home, they need moisture to grow and digest whatever material they are growing on. Excess moisture or water build up from high humidity, flooding, or a leaky roof, provide ideal conditions for mold growth. There is no way to remove all mold spores from your home.

The following agencies offer information on what causes mold, its health effects, and how to prevent mold:

Washington State Department of Health
Office of Environmental Health, Safety, & Toxicology
PO Box 47825
Olympia WA 98504-7825

Phone: 360-236-3385
Toll-free: 1-877-485-7316

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 10
1200 Sixth Ave.
Seattle WA  98101

Phone: 206-553-1200
Toll-free: 1-800-424-4372



Updated 12/23/2011

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Need more help? Call our FREE Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900
or Email us at cap@oic.wa.gov.