Water damage can end up leading to mold. Not only is mold gross and extremely dangerous to your health, but it can also discolor the ceilings, rot your ductwork and wood and create an awful odor. The best way to keep your home in top shape is to keep it dry at all times. For many homeowners' insurance policies, the source of the mold determines whether it is going to be covered or not. If the mold is the result of a broken pipe, insurance companies will often pay to repair the damage and eradicate the spores. To help minimize your chances of having to deal with mold in your home, here are a few tips you can implement today.

Address leaks quickly

Regardless of whether a pipe bursts or your toilet overflows, you need to make sure any leaks or spills are taken care of within the first 24 to 48 hours. Allowing the water to sit there and soak into everything will only end up causing more problems down the road. Mold grows in moist, damp conditions, so you want to eliminate the source of water as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth. If the problem is more than a little spill, you might need to contact your insurance company and file a claim for damages. Anything like a broken water pipe or broken toilet that overflowed and destroyed the surroundings needs to be taken care of quickly to mitigate damages.

Make sure appliances are vented properly

Appliances such as dryers and stoves should be vented properly. They create a lot of moisture and humidity when in operation. If you don't have them vented, the moisture is going to end up damaging the drywall and making the whole area damp. That dampness can lead to mold growth. Always have the fans on and proper ventilation in place when using these appliances.

Keep your indoor humidity down

The humidity inside of your home should always be controlled. If your home is more humid, you will need to use a dehumidifier to pull the excess moisture out of the area. Homes that are too damp are breeding grounds for mold. Run a dehumidifier on all floors and in your utility room where the washer and dryer are running. This will reduce the amount of moisture in the home.

By following the tips above, you can minimize the amount of mold in your home and prevent having to make an insurance claim. Contact an insurance company like Kerr Agency for more information on the coverage you may need.