Posted on November 30, 2021
ICHQ | Site Author
When toxic mold, such as the dreaded black mold, takes root in a home, it often reflects a construction flaw, a defective or poorly maintained HVAC system, or another kind of foundational defect. If mold in your home leaves you or a family member unwell, a lawsuit is likely your best strategy for obtaining the compensation that you need to reach your fullest recovery, which makes moving forward with purpose paramount. If you’ve been harmed by mold in your home, the most important step you can take to help ensure that you win your mold damage case is by consulting with a dedicated insurance claims lawyer – who has considerable experience pursuing these highly technical and complicated cases – early in the process.
The Mayo Clinic Weighs In
The Mayo Clinic reports that mold can lead to serious allergic reactions, including all of the following:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Restricted breathing and other symptoms related to asthma
Mold can also lead to infections of the skin or mucous membranes in those who are susceptible. If these symptoms plague you, it may be a sign of a serious mold allergy, and your home may be the culprit. Some of the factors that the Mayo Clinic identifies as either leading to or exacerbating mold allergies include:
- A home with high humidity (which can be linked to faulty ventilation)
- A home that has been exposed to excess moisture, such as damage caused by pipes that leak, flooding, water seepage during heavy rains, and other sources of moisture-related damage
- A house with poor ventilation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) forwards important facts about mold and shares them with the public because mold can have such varied effects on people and because there are no accepted standards regarding how much mold is too much mold, every situation must be taken on a case-by-case basis. If you believe that you or a family member has been harmed by mold in your home, it’s time to seek medical attention.
Structural Damage
It’s important to note that mold that is left unchecked can also cause considerable and costly structural damage to your home, which should be addressed sooner rather than later.
The Steps You Can Take
If you’ve been harmed by mold in your home that was caused by your contractor’s negligence, that was kept from you at the time of purchase, or that is the result of any other party’s negligence, obtaining the compensation to which you are entitled is critical. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to help ensure this happens, including:
- Seek the medical attention you need
- Consult with an experienced insurance claims attorney
- Carefully document the signs of mold in your home
- Carefully document the health implications you and your family members experience
- Carefully document any mold-related structural damage to your home
These steps are the building blocks to your strongest mold damage case.
You Need an Experienced Insurance Claims Lawyer on Your Side
If you or someone in your family has been harmed by mold in your home (and/or if your house has suffered structural damage as a result of mold) and if this mold is the result of another party’s negligence, the accomplished insurance claims lawyers at Insurance Claim HQ have the legal insight, experience, and technical savvy that you need. We are here to help, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information today.
FAQ
What damages can I collect on?
In your mold damage claim, you can seek damages for your medical expenses, lost earnings, and the related pain and suffering endured by your family (in addition to any property damage to your home).
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
In most states, you will have only a year to file a lawsuit against the insurance company covering your claim (if it refuses to negotiate with you in good faith).
How do I know if mold is the culprit?
Mold can often be seen and smelled, so you may become aware of its presence early on. Further, if you and/or any of your family members are exhibiting symptoms common to mold allergies, not only do you need medical attention, but a doctor can also help confirm your suspicions.
