FOLLOWUP FROM A HURRICANE, CHECK FOR MOLD

After a hurricane, tornado or other storm, homeowners know how important it is to take a careful look at their homes and property for damage and needed repairs. One thing that's often overlooked, is the growth of mold.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.CDC.gov) notes that mold may be present when a home has a lot of excess moisture after a storm. If left untreated, it could turn into a health risk for you and your family.

Two ways to recognize mold are sight and smell. Check the walls and ceiling for discoloration or mold growth, and be aware of any musty or earthy smell in your home.

The CDC offers the following tips to keep your home safe:

Remove any porous items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and cannot be thoroughly dried out. These items include carpeting, upholstery, wallpaper, drywall and insulation materials.
If you uncover mold growth, be sure to remove it as well as fix any water problems that may be causing mold.
To remove mold, use soap and water or a bleach solution of one cup bleach mixed with one cup of water.
If you use bleach, be sure to open windows and doors and wear non-porous gloves. Do not mix it with ammonia or any other cleaning products, as doing so can create toxic fumes.
Keeping the humidity level in your house below 50 percent, and using an air-conditioner or dehumidifier during humid months.

As additional steps, the CDC recommends drying and disinfecting all wet materials in your house, and that you wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing during cleanup. Taking these extra safety precautions will help to keep you and your family safe.

Your homeowners insurance has limited coverage for mold, subject to a specific dollar limit and several policy exclusions. Please contact our office with any questions about policy coverage.

Posted 12:00 PM

No Comments