Hurricanes can be a roof’s worst enemy. One small crack can be the catalyst for a roof torn completely clean off your property, resulting in the need for a tornado and wind insurance claim. However, you might not be so lucky if your roof has been damaged by other means. Learn more in this all-inclusive guide revealing the connection between roof damage and insurance coverage so you can know what to do and if you’re covered. To better secure your property, trust in Altieri Insurance Consultants Naples!
The Fine Line Between What Is and Isn’t Covered
Property insurance companies in Florida typically focus on roof damage caused by natural disasters. Here are some examples:
- Wind
- Water
- Hail
- Fire
- Lightning
- Ice
- Snow
Have you noticed a pattern? These are all types of weather conditions or instances caused by extreme weather. Because nobody can control the weather, insurance companies will typically lend a sympathetic hand and help you out.
Now you might be thinking, what’s not covered? As we said before, insurance companies will likely help you if your roof damage was caused by something that was out of your control. Therefore, controllable factors that insurers won’t recognize may include wear and tear from lack of regular roof maintenance.
Your Roof Damage Is Covered! What Now?
If your roof damage happens to fall into the category of accepted coverage, congratulations! That is the first step in receiving a settlement. However, here is where the real challenge begins.
Even if your roof damage is covered, you may face complications in the claim process. Many policies in Florida now have roof endorsements, meaning you will get paid only for the depreciated value of your roof. For example, if the roof is 10 years old, and the life expectancy of the roof is 20 years, insurance will only pay you 50% of the total repair cost (minus you’re your deductible).
Insurance providers might also give you a hard time gathering everything that’s needed to file a full report, or they may take their time in making you an offer which is less than ideal when it’s unsafe to stay in a property without a functioning roof. When the time comes for your insurer to present you with an offer, there’s also a good chance that the amount won’t be enough to cover the cost of damages and any income you may have lost during the wait.
Your Roof Damage Wasn’t Covered…What Should You Do?
In the case where your insurance provider denies you coverage, you must then assess the reason why. Some insurance companies are rather nit-picky about the prerequisites for receiving coverage, and a poorly-maintained roof may be the first excuse they shoot for. They may also place you at fault for having roofing made of a product or material that hasn’t been approved or if the roof was installed by an unrecognized contractor. That’s because living in Florida calls for higher standards given the climate.
Take this lesson to help you out the next time you file a roof damage claim. Have your roof inspected to confirm the quality of the material and to check for any possible vulnerabilities. If there are any flaws or small repairs needed in your roofing system, get it fixed immediately! Regular inspections and repairs are key to ensuring that your insurer can’t find any arguments to refute your claim.
You can also hire a Public Adjuster to review the damage, denial paperwork, and see if it is possible to reopen and contest the claim.
Altieri Insurance Consultants Helps With Roof Damage Claims!
When you need help navigating roof damage claims and making sure you get the correct amount from your provider, Altieri Insurance Consultants is the partner property owners rely on. Meet our team of public adjusters who can help you get your life back and prepare you for future claims with policy reviews and planning.