As an independent adjuster in the state of Florida, the bioaerosol and mold claims that I have reviewed and handled have led me to believe that there is a need for further discussion and understanding of the issue. Florida, like other states, is experiencing a mold explosion. Like Texas and California, it seems that Florida is becoming a significant battleground for bioaerosol-related claims, a situation exacerbated by Florida's sub-tropical environment.

As the problem grows, insurance companies and independents are scrambling to understand the new discipline. A number of different mold certifications are floating around of which the claim community is taking advantage. This is a good sign, and we can add this to the diverse experience and training that we must posses in order to survive in the world of claims.

The mold issue is driven by "poor scientific investigative methods and preconceived assumptions, with judgment clouded by economic opportunity by many IAQ inspectors, the media, lawyers, and laboratories," wrote Richard Cussen, a certified industrial hygienist, in the November 2002 issue of Indoor Environment Connections. What can we reasonably do to understand, investigate, and conclude bioaerosol claims?