People living in the ocean lined communities of Sarasota County, FL are all too familiar with rising tides and intense storms.

The threat of flooding and water damage from severe weather poses an imminent threat to your property, particularly during hurricane season.

But many homeowners lack the strong coverage necessary to protect their property after losses. That may be because policy types and coverage needs can be confusing.

Flood Insurance

It may come as a surprise that flood insurance is generally not a standard aspect of a homeowners insurance policy. Another surprising fact is people that suffer losses due a natural disaster will not receive aid from the federal government.

You could qualify for a disaster loan. But you will need to pay that money back with interest. Given Sarasota County is a seaside community, it may be wise to update your policy to include flood insurance.

flood insurance venice

Water Damage and Mold

Many standard homeowners policies do not cover sudden water damage problems. These can range from flooding to a hole in the roof to a sewer pipe backing up into your home.

Once this moisture gets in, it could start dangerous mold growths.

Mold requires warmth, moisture and a good source. Construction materials meet the bill. Because mold growths are a water-related issue, be sure that you have adequate coverage.

Remediation can be tremendously expensive.

Common types of mold and their related symptoms

An integral part of mold remediation is identifying the mold type. This allows you, the homeowner, and the professional involved, to gauge the health risks associated with any mold that’s present as well as how to best remove it.

There are more than 1.5 million species of mold in the world and only 100,000 have actually been identified. While that number seems daunting, here are the types of mold you’re more likely to find in the home:

  • Aspergillus: An allergenic mold often found in AC systems and on foods.
  • Cladosporium: A blackish substance that grows on the back of toilets, fiberglass air ducts, and painted surfaces.
  • Stachybotrys: A species of mold that thrives in highly humid areas and typically grows on cellulose material like wicker, hay, wood, paper, and cardboard. Symptoms include, burning nasal passages, nose bleeds, inflammation of the mucous membranes, fever, and fatigue.
  • Penicillin: A mold usually found on food, grains, soil, paint, wallpaper, and rotting vegetables. This may harken the (in)famous image of the old, moldy sandwich.
  • Acremonium: A very toxin-laden (and acrimonious) mold, acremonium can actually affect cognition and cause nausea, vomiting, and damage bone marrow. To add insult to injury, nearly all types emit a horrible smell.

Exposure to mold can cause respiratory problems in children and pose a serious danger to those with chronic lung diseases. if you think you or someone in your home is getting sick as a result of mold exposure, then get medical help immediately.

Conclusion

Our Shaefer Insurance Agency professionals are here to help people in the Venice, Sarasota, and surrounding communities. We’re available to answer questions and will work with you to create or update a policy to reflect your unique coverage needs.