As a homeowner, your roof is one of the most important components of your house. If it is defective or gets damaged in a storm, it can also become the bane of your existence. The good news is that homeowner’s insurance policies cover many roof-related issues. The bad news? They do not cover all roof-related issues, and insurance companies in Florida frequently deny homeowners’ roof-related coverage claims.
Answers to FAQs about Roof-Related Homeowner’s Insurance Claims
Q: Does My Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Cover Damage to My Roof?
Generally speaking, yes. Standard homeowner’s insurance policies cover roof damage resulting from storms, fires and certain other causes. However, hurricane, windstorm and other types of damage are usually covered under separate policies. As a homeowner in Broward County, it is important to make sure that you have adequate insurance protection for your home in the event of a major weather event.
Q: What About Water Damage Caused by a Leaky Roof?
Damage caused by a leaky roof may be covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy. The key question is usually: How soon did you discover the leak after it began?
If you filed a claim for the leak promptly after it started, you are more likely to be covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you delayed, there is a greater chance that your insurance company will try to deny your claim. However, this issue is far from clear cut, and it is important to understand any exceptions that might apply (especially if you do not live in South Florida year-round).
Q: Is There Anything Else that Isn’t Covered?
Along with long-term leaks, homeowner’s insurance companies will typically deny claims based upon roof defects. If the company that built your home used faulty materials or provided shoddy workmanship, your insurance company will most likely claim that the damage to your roof is excluded from coverage under your homeowner’s policy. In this scenario, you may need to pursue a claim against the builder.
Q: How Do I Protect My Rights Under My Homeowner’s Insurance Policy?
If your house sustained roof damage and you need to file a claim under your homeowner’s insurance policy, it will typically be in your best interests to hire legal representation. An experienced property damage attorney will be able to effectively deal with the insurance company on your behalf, and can hire a public adjuster to help prove that you are entitled to coverage under your policy.
Learn more about hiring an attorney for your homeowner’s insurance claim.
Q: What If My Insurance Company is Acting in Bad Faith?
Unfortunately, many insurance companies deny homeowners’ roof-related claims in bad faith, hoping to avoid liability for what should be a covered claim. If your insurer is engaging in bad-faith insurance practices, you will need to hire an experienced attorney to help you protect your rights.
Saavedra Goodwin | A Fort Lauderdale Insurance Claim Law Firm
At Saavedra Goodwin, we represent homeowners in insurance coverage claims and in cases involving insurance bad faith. If your roof has been damaged and you need to seek coverage under your homeowner’s insurance policy, we encourage you to contact us for an initial consultation. To speak with an attorney about your rights, call (954) 928-9568 or request an appointment online today.
