Does Your Business Need a Mold Management Plan?

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Does Your Business Need a Mold Management Plan?

As a business owner, you have planned for every possible emergency. You purchased general liability insurance to deal with the unexpected, too. But a mold management plan? Is it necessary? Can it help with mold insurance claims?
It is, and it can. Get ready to add it to your emergency toolbox. By having a mold management plan, you are protecting the investment you have in your Delray Beach, FL, company. You are also demonstrating to your insurance carrier that you have been proactive in minimizing any mold-related insurance claims.

A Mold-Resistant Building Helps Your Claims
Part of your mold management plan should be making your business mold-resistant. Controlling moisture is the key:

• Fix leaks promptly.
• Regulate humidity.
• Ventilate damp areas.
• Limit the use of carpeting.
• Clean up quickly after flooding.

Many mold insurance claims hinge on prevention and diligence. As such, you and your staff must stay ahead of mold by keeping things dry. If you find small areas of mold, mold remediation should begin immediately to prevent spores from spreading. Mold grows on common materials found in virtually any business: paper products, food, carpet and clothing.
Other areas to check are those that are not out in the open, such as above the ceiling tiles, inside drywalled areas and around pipes. Document your actions to control the moisture on your property. If necessary, hire a mold removal company to help. Your willingness to keep your property in good condition is important.

Does Commercial Liability Insurance Pay for Mold Damage?
The short answer is "maybe." That said, having such a policy should still be the first step in your mold management plan. Understanding that policy is next. Liability policies vary depending on many factors, so it's imperative to read your policy carefully and/or discuss it with your agent in detail before making a mold claim.
Having a mold management plan for your company — including both prevention and solid liability insurance in case of any loss — will strengthen any mold insurance claims you may have in the future. It strongly suggests that any damage isn't due to negligence on your part, which can be invaluable as you seek reimbursement.