Currently, mold is a hot topic that affects many different groups of people. Because mold is such an expensive and ambiguous problem, each side has developed its own goals and biases. This has led to much conflict and drama and recent years as each side fights for its causes. This post is part 1 of a two part series. Here are a few of the players in this mold drama:
Doctors and Scientists: Doctors are now pointing the finger at mold for previously undiagnosed health problems such as headaches, sore throats, and hay fever. But while mold is definitely responsible for making people sick some of the time, the science on mold is still fuzzy and more research is needed. Additionally, other contributing factors make it difficult to pinpoint mold as the one and only cause of negative health effects; such as the species of mold and how mold affects people differently.
Insurance Companies: Because mold is a preventable problem and because mold causes such staggering losses, insurance companies are usually very stubborn about paying mold claims. The fine print of most insurance policies states that it is the homeowners’ responsibility to mitigate damages from flooding to prevent mold and that unless mold was caused by natural flooding or other Act of God, they don’t owe one penny of the millions of dollars in damages.
Lawyers: Both sides of the courtroom are responsible for stretching the truth in order to win. Since Melinda Ballard was awarded $32.6 million in a claim against her insurance company, lawyers have realized that mold equals gold. Dishonest lawyers take advantage of the fuzzy science and a lack of information around mold to convince a sympathetic jury into awarding millions for them and their clients.
The Government: Prompted by the latest research as well as the massive litigation cases over mold, federal and state governments are becoming more and more willing to pass legislation that would establish mandatory indoor air quality regulations. But the science on mold is still controversial and the concern is that the government may be too hasty to enact such laws and regulations that affect everyone.
Mold Remediators: The mold remediation industry is at the forefront of the drama and is looked upon to fix the problems that the other sides are fighting over. A reliable, trusted mold remediation company uses thorough cleaning methods with the most advanced mold-fighting technology. However, shady, uncertified remediators (sometimes backed by penny-pinching insurance companies) will use ineffective methods and shortcuts that only mask the problem.
You: If you are a home or building owner, then you are caught in the middle of the chaos. When mold threatens your home and family, it is best to take responsibility for it yourself rather than passively relying on your insurance company to fix it or your doctor to prescribe medication for your health. Take the steps to prevent leaks and immediately mitigate flooding damage when it occurs. Find a certified mold remediation company with trusted credentials and experience rather than letting another player in the drama find one for you.
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