Pipe leaks (sudden and gradual), mold and insurance

[Mona V.]

Landlord in WV with a rental property. Plumber found a sewage pipe leak (gradual) and a radiator pipe leak (sudden per plumber's written report) behind basement walls. Also found mold and insects as a result. Public adjuster consulted — said claim will likely be denied due to mold exclusion and gradual leak, even if radiator pipe leak was sudden. 

Concerned about CLUE report impact across my portfolio of multiple properties if I file and get denied. Should I still file with insurance and take a chance?

My deductible is 3000, not sure about the extent of damage behind walls due to mold. 

Has anyone filed a similar claim — sudden pipe + resulting mold — and what was the outcome? Was it covered? Did denial affect your other properties' premiums?"

[Richard F.]

Insurance is rough these days. Best if you can self insure on a smaller claim like this, keep the policy for a major fire or storm damage. Is the area of the leaks living space, or storage/ off limits to Tenants? Unless occupied living space, utilize your regular contractors to remove,TREAT, and restore the walls and affected area. Much less costly than the specialists., but you must use proper procedures for health and safety.