Does homeowners insurance cover mold in Florida?

Notify the insurer promptly, protect the property from further damage, keep damaged property and repair receipts, cooperate with the investigation and prepare an inventory with bills. The insurer must acknowledge a claim communication within 7 calendar days. Unless the policy or law provides otherwise, it must begin a reasonably necessary investigation within 7 days after receiving proof-of-loss statements. If the investigation includes a physical inspection, that must occur within 30 days after receipt of those statements, and the assigned adjuster must provide their name and state license number. Insurers issuing personal-lines residential property policies must provide the Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights within 14 days after the initial claim communication. Exceptions and tolling rules apply.

Photograph or video the damage before and after any work. For an NFIP flood claim involving possible mold or moisture damage above the floodwater line, FEMA's June 2025 Claims Manual tells adjusters to consider the time between specified events, including when the building became accessible, the loss was reported, the inspection occurred, damaged materials were removed or cleaned, electrical and HVAC systems were restored, and structural drying began. Keep receipts for emergency measures, an inventory with bills, and any written communication. Keep repair records, but whether missing records affect coverage depends on the policy and claim facts.

Within 60 days after receiving notice of an initial, reopened or supplemental property claim, the insurer must pay or deny the claim or a portion of it, unless a factor beyond its control applies. It must give a written explanation of the basis for payment, denial or partial denial. Statutory interest applies to late payments of initial or supplemental claims; tolling rules and exceptions also apply. The 60-day rule covers residential coverage and certain commercial property claims involving structures or premises of 10,000 square feet or less.

It is a state document the insurer must give you within 14 days after your first communication about a claim. It lists rights including acknowledgment within 7 days; confirmation, upon written request, within 30 days after a complete proof of loss; a copy of the adjuster's detailed estimate within 7 days after the adjuster generates it; and a decision within 60 days, subject to applicable exceptions. It also advises filing claims directly with the insurer, documenting necessary emergency repairs, verifying a contractor's Florida license and requiring proof of insurance.

When it is safe, yes. Take dated photos and video before disturbing the area, and again during and after mitigation. Include wide shots and close-ups, the water source if visible, standing water, stained or swollen materials, and moisture readings if a professional shares them. Do not enter unsafe areas or delay emergency mitigation only to take pictures. If you must remove material to stop damage, photograph it first where practical. Keep the original files and back them up. Photos are records, not proof of coverage.