You might not have any claims dealing with ice damming on your desk right now. However, winter will be here before we know it.

According to the 2000 census, there are over 1.8 million housing units in Colorado. There are approximately 465,000 multifamily homes in Colorado.

With this large amount of residences in Colorado,the avenue for insurance claim loss due to the failure of water fed lines is proportional. In order to minimize the losses associated with the introduction of water lines in the home the current design, construction, and maintenance of the residential units needs to be carefully reviewed. 

The Problem:

Have you ever seen an enclosed balcony, deck or elevated exterior walkway with a concrete topping slab or other surface that was leaking or had subsequent structural concerns due to the water entry?  Unfortunately, these problems are all too common, but can be easily avoided if some very simple measures are taken in the design and/or construction process.

Article written by The USDA Colorado State Office Rural Development.

The purpose of this Architectural Technical Guide (ATG) is to disseminate information regarding current requirements for the investigation, abatement, and post abatement certification of mold found in construction components in existing single family residences and multi-family housing projects. Mold problems in Rural Development financed properties are presently viewed by the real estate industry as a likely time bomb for future litigation. This ATG is intended to provide educational information on the subject as well as suggested policy.

Article provided by The Tri-County Health Department.

Moisture management in and around a residence is an important part of homeowner maintenance. In order to maintain the structural integrity of your home, reduce maintenance problems, enhance your home's durability and value, and reduce the potential for mold growth, you need to understand the moisture control systems of your home and your own important role in maintaining those systems. In addition, excessive moisture in your home may cause mold growth, which can cause adverse heath effects, especially if the residents are allergic to mold.

Does it seem like the news regarding mold problems is growing at an alarming rate everyday? What has changed over the last 20 years to increase this phenomenon?

A relatively small leak in a mechanical system can cause tremendous damage when not discovered quickly. Claims of this nature seem to go hand in hand with a second or vacation home, homes under construction (builders risk) or when the insured is away for an extended period. During a mechanical failure, water flowing at a rate of 8 to 16 ounces per minute can result in a discharge of 90 to 180 gallons per day, or over 1,000 gallons a week.

Do you often evaluate claims involving mold or fungus growth? The causes vary, but numerous varieties of mold or fungus can emit toxic substances, making it a serious health issue.