Ambiguities in the policy must be read in favor of the insured, and exclusions must be narrowly read. (ALM Media archives) Ambiguities in the policy must be read in favor of the insured, and exclusions must be narrowly read. (ALM Media archives)

Analysis brought to you by the experts at FC&S Online, the recognized authority on insurance coverage interpretation and analysis for the P&C industry. To find out more — or to have YOUR coverage question answered — visit the National Underwriter website, or contact the editors via Twitter: @FCSbulletins.

Question: I know of the exclusions for mold, rot, deterioration, etc.  However, I do not think that is what this is. I was just reading this article about algae, lichen and moss, and it talks about how algae, lichen or moss "eat" the limestone from shingles.  This is not deterioration, per se. Looking at a standard homeowners' policy, I could not locate an exclusion. Also, it states in the policy they pay for risk of direct physical loss; no mention of the words, "Sudden" or "Accidental."  

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