Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Water Damage Odor Removal?
websitebuilder • May 7, 2024
Water damage can be a devastating experience for homeowners particularly in areas with high humidity such as Florida. Beyond the immediate damage to your property, water intrusion can lead to lingering odors that can be unpleasant and even pose health risks. In the aftermath of a water damage event, one of the questions that often arises is: "Does my homeowner's insurance cover the cost of removing these odors?"
Short Answer: Check with your insurance company to confirm in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises after the fact.
Understanding Water Damage and Odors
Water damage creates a damp environment ideal for the growth of mold and mildew. These organisms thrive on moisture and organic materials like wood, drywall, and carpeting. As they grow, mold and mildew release musty odors that can permeate your home.
Health Risks Associated with Water Damage Odors
While unpleasant, water damage odors can also pose health risks. For individuals with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, exposure to mold spores and other contaminants can trigger symptoms like:
● Respiratory irritation: Coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing.
● Eye irritation: Redness, watering, and itching.
● Skin irritation: Itching, rashes, and burning sensations.
● Headaches and fatigue: These symptoms are more common with prolonged exposure.
● In severe cases: Chronic exposure to mold and other water damage byproducts can lead to more serious health problems.
Homeowner's Insurance Coverage for Water Damage
Most standard homeowner's insurance policies offer coverage for water damage, but the extent of coverage can vary depending on the specific policy details and the cause of the water damage, which is why we recommend that each client confirmed with their insurance. Two clients can have the respective policy with the same insurance company and although they may appear the same on the surface, the devils in in the details. One may be covered for X, while the other is not covered for the same.
Here's a breakdown of what homeowner's insurance typically covers for water damage:
- Dwelling Coverage: This covers repairs to the structure of your home damaged by water, including walls, floors, and ceilings.
- Personal Property Coverage: This covers the cost of replacing or repairing damaged belongings due to water damage.
Odor Removal Coverage: A Complex Issue
The question of whether homeowner's insurance covers water damage odor removal can be complex. Here are some factors influencing coverage:
- Policy Wording: Carefully review your homeowner's insurance policy to understand the specific language regarding water damage coverage. Look for terms like "mold remediation" or "deodorization." If unsure, contact your insurance agent for clarification.
- Cause of Water Damage: Some policies may exclude coverage for odor removal if the water damage was caused by a specifically excluded event, such as sewer backups or floods (unless you have additional flood insurance).
- Severity of the Odor: Minor or temporary odors might not be covered, while significant odors requiring professional remediation may be covered.
Common Exclusions in Water Damage Coverage
Here are some common exclusions to be aware of:
- Flooding: Standard homeowner's insurance typically doesn't cover flood damage, and this might include odor removal associated with floodwater. Flood insurance is a separate policy that may offer coverage for flood-related water damage and odor removal.
- Sewer Backups: Sewage backups are often excluded from basic homeowner's insurance coverage, and this could include the cost of odor removal after a sewage backup event. Some insurers offer additional coverage for sewer backups for an extra premium.
- Neglect or Maintenance Issues: If the water damage resulted from a lack of proper maintenance (e.g., clogged gutters), your insurance company might deny coverage for repairs and odor removal.
- Cosmetic Issues: Purely cosmetic odor removal, not associated with a health risk, might not be covered by your insurance.
Tips Regarding Your Claim for Water Damage Odor Removal
If you experience water damage and suspect odor issues, the following steps should be considered:
- Document Everything: Take pictures and videos of the water damage and notes regarding the lingering odors. Keep receipts for any related expenses incurred.
- Contact Your Insurance Company Promptly: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the water damage event. They are likely to send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine coverage.
- Be Proactive in Addressing the Source: Work with a qualified water damage restoration company like PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville to identify and address the source of the water damage and mitigate loss, including secondary damage, such as mold growth.
- Obtain Estimates for Odor Removal: Get quotes from reputable odor removal companies before finalizing your claim with your insurance provider.
- Negotiate Your Claim: Review your policy coverage prior to calling your insurance to maximize the productivity of the call.
- Work with a Reputable Water Damage Restoration Company: A professional restoration company like PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville can work directly with your insurance company to document the damage, negotiate your claim, and ensure proper odor removal techniques are implemented.
Benefits of Working with PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville for Water Damage Odor Removal
When faced with water damage and lingering odors, PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville is your trusted partner for a complete and successful restoration process. Here's why we stand out:
- 24/7 Emergency Response: We understand the urgency of water damage emergencies and offer 24/7 emergency response services to minimize further damage and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
- Experienced and Certified Technicians: Our team comprises highly trained and certified technicians equipped with advanced equipment and expertise to identify the source of the odor and implement effective deodorization techniques.
- Advanced Odor Removal Methods: We utilize a variety of state-of-the-art deodorization methods, including air scrubbing, hydroxyl generation, and ozone treatment, to eliminate odors safely and effectively.
- Insurance Claim Assistance: Our team can assist you with navigating the insurance claim process for water damage odor removal, alleviating stress and ensuring you receive the coverage you deserve.
- Focus on Health and Safety: We prioritize your health and well-being. Our odor removal procedures not only eliminate unpleasant smells but also address potential health hazards associated with mold and mildew.
- Commitment to Transparency: We keep you informed throughout the restoration process, providing clear communication and updates on the progress of odor removal.
Don't Let Water Damage Odors Linger
Water damage odors can be a nuisance and a potential health risk. By understanding your homeowner's insurance coverage, taking proactive steps to minimize damage, and working with a reputable water damage restoration company like PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville, you can effectively address water damage odor removal and restore your home to a safe and healthy environment.
Contact PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville Today!
If you've experienced water damage and are concerned about lingering odors, don't hesitate to contact PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville. We offer a free consultation to assess your situation and discuss the best course of action for odor removal.
Call us at 352-722-3790 to schedule a consultation.
Remember, PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville is here to help you every step of the way, from water damage mitigation to complete odor removal and restoration, ensuring your home is safe, healthy, and comfortable for you and your family.
EXAMINATION: Individuals seeking licensure as a Mold Remediator must first take and pass a department approved exam for mold remediation. For information about the examination, visit the Examination Information webpage. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE : A copy of a transcript is required demonstrating an Associate of Arts degree or higher in microbiology, engineering, architecture, industrial hygiene or occupational safety or related field of science from an accredited institution. The applicant must also demonstrate a minimum of 1 year of documented field experience in a field related to mold remediation; or a high school diploma and 4 years of documented field experience in a field related to mold remediation. This is not a complete listing of educational and experience requirements. Please see the application instructions page for complete information. FINGERPRINTS: An applicant must have a background check as part of the licensing process. You must submit your fingerprints using a Livescan Service Provider registered with FDLE immediately after submitting your application for licensure. It may take up to five days for your fingerprint results to be received by the Department after they are submitted to the Florida Department of Law enforcement (FDLE). Please note that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement requires that an application for licensure should precede the submission of your fingerprints. To learn more about fingerprinting, please visit our Fingerprinting webpage . INSURANCE: Applicants for a Mold Remediator license are required to attest that they have obtained general liability insurance in the amount of no less than $1 million dollars as determined by statute. FEE: Pay the required fee as provided in the application. If applying online, you can pay with a credit card or electronic check. If mailing your application, please include a check payable to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Military veterans, their spouses and Florida National Guard members may be eligible for a fee waiver, fee reimbursement, and/or fee discount. Please visit our DBPR Military Services page for more information. APPLICATION: Complete the application by clicking on the "Online Services" link or the "Printable Application" link at the bottom of the page. NOTICE FOR APPLICANTS SUBMITTING FINGERPRINTS WHERE CRIMINAL RECORD RESULTS WILL BE USED FOR LICENSING PURPOSES PUDDLES Restoration Phone: (352) 722-3790 Email: Info@PUDDLESrestoration.com Website: www.PUDDLESrestoration.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puddlesrestoration Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puddlesrestoration/ Licenses & Certifications : • FL Licensed Mold Assessor • FL Licensed Mold Remediator • IICRC Odor Control Technician (OCT) • IICRC Applied Structural Drying (ASD) • IICRC Water Damage Restoration (WRT) • IICRC Health and Safety Technician (HST) • IICRC Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) • IICRC Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) • IICRC Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) • IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) • IICRC Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Firm
In the State of Florida, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licenses and regulates mold assessors and mold remediators. To become licensed, individuals need to meet specific education and experience requirements, pass an approved examination, and undergo a criminal background check. Licensing Requirements: Requires specific education (e.g., Associate's degree in a related field) and documented field experience, or a high school diploma with more experience. Mold Remediator: Requires the same educational and experience qualifications as a mold assessor, plus passing a department-approved exam. Examination: Both mold assessors and remediators must pass a state-approved examination. Background Check: A criminal background check is part of the licensing process. Fees: Application and licensing fees apply, and are non-refundable. PUDDLES Restoration Phone: (352) 722-3790 Email: Info@PUDDLESrestoration.com Website: www.PUDDLESrestoration.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puddlesrestoration Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puddlesrestoration/ Licenses & Certifications : • FL Licensed Mold Assessor • FL Licensed Mold Remediator • IICRC Odor Control Technician (OCT) • IICRC Applied Structural Drying (ASD) • IICRC Water Damage Restoration (WRT) • IICRC Health and Safety Technician (HST) • IICRC Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) • IICRC Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) • IICRC Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) • IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) • IICRC Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Firm
Two referral partners (Ref Ptnrs A & B) called us to perform an emergency water damage inspection b/c they were told that houses Y & Z were wet. Ref Ptnr A had one business day left for the inspection period. Ref Ptnr B was accused of causing water to get under ¾ inch solid glued-down wood flooring (these were really nice floors), and the contractor started removing the floor. Fortunately, Ref Ptnr B was able to convince the contractor to STOP removing any more flooring by saying, “My guy is licensed and certified and has the correct equipment to determine if the floor is wet, and he [ PUDDLES ] will be here by 7:00 AM tomorrow to inspect the floor.” CONCLUSION: Neither house Y or Z was wet. If the floors had read wet: Ref Ptnr A’s real estate deal would have failed, and Ref Ptnr B would have incurred 10X what he was paid to fix the floor. Our followers know that green is good when using a Protimeter MMS3 moisture meter, but to be safe, we also used a FLIR infrared camera and a Tramex CMEX5 Moisture meter to inspect the ensuite master bathroom-tiled floor.
Slow Leaks vs Fast Leaks Gainesville, FL 32601 We are often asked which is worse: Slow Leaks or Fast Leaks?
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
What Happened A contractor in Gainesville, FL stopped his team from “removing” the “mold problem” by, as they suggested, "spraying it with bleach." The contractor insisted that the mold remediation be done correctly and called PUDDLES . Upon completion of the work, PUDDLES insisted that the client retain an independent company to conduct a post remediation verification test to confirm that the mold remediation was done correctly. We were "lucky" to pass a PRV with a gaping hole in the floor.
What Happened The gaps between the ceiling drywall and the light fixtures allowed dirty air from the attic to mix with the air conditioner air, resulting in mold growth in the ceiling. CAN’T YOU JUST WIPE IT [MOLD] OFF! PUDDLES: No We get that a lot for mold removal, except it is usually said as a statement rather than a question. CALLER: Why not? PUDDLES: For many reasons: (1) the lab results confirmed it is mold, (2) it is on drywall, (3) the affected material is a popcorn ceiling, (3) …, (4) …, but more importantly, we don’t do that -- “wipe off drywall.” CALLER: But I was told you can. PUDDLES: You can, but we don’t; and we understand if you wish to call another company who would do that. No hard feelings. CALLER: Two days later: Caller agrees to us removing the affected material starting at 6:30 AM the next business day. Typically, the mold you cannot see is worse than the mold you can see. The same thing applied here.
Not calling PUDDLES will cost you more $$$$. Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. In this case, both the homeowner and their public adjuster chose a different (cheaper) company. That company never showed, never called, never emailed, never text; they did nothing. What Happened Hurricane Helene happened in Gainesville, FL.
Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages, which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. What Happened Severe winds in Gainesville, FL bent numerous shingles allowing water penetration when it rains.
