Florida is one state that relies heavily on the structural integrity of their roofs. With a constant threat from gale force winds and hurricane damage, a Florida roof must be strong, sturdy and dependable. However, sometimes even the strongest roof stands no chance against Mother Nature and is damaged or destroyed following a catastrophic event. This is an ever-present possibility in the Orlando area and every precaution should be taken to mitigate any problems that may arise. The most efficient manner of risk management is to have a homeowner’s insurance policy that covers roof damage. With a policy, you can file a claim, assess the damage and use the requisite payout to cover the costs of repairs.
With the huge financial drain that a damaged roof can potentially cause, having a strong backup plan is essential. An insurance policy should allow you to be confident in the fact that your house and roof are protected, should anything happen. When providers refuse or delay payment, you are immediately put into an extremely difficult financial predicament that will also likely affect your well-being due to the nature of the damage in question.
If your insurance coverage has been delayed, disputed or denied, it may be in your best interest to demand what is rightfully yours by hiring a qualified insurance claims attorney to argue on your behalf. Our attorneys at Hale, Hale & Jacobson will be able to identify the exact reason for the insurance company’s denial or delay and develop a case that proves they are liable for the aforementioned damage.
Factors in a Roof Damage Claim
There are many things that you need to look at while assessing roof damage. Knowing the details of the roof damage can lead to a more accurate valuation, along with an ability to refute the low-ball claim that the insurance company offered. Some of the most important things to consider when filing a roof insurance claim include:
Evidence of the insured peril (i.e. natural disaster that caused the damage).
The age and condition of the roof.
The type of roof system involved. Was the roof made up of asphalt shingle, built-up flat roof, ceramic or metal tile roof, sheet metal, reinforced thermoplastic membrane, etc?
Maintenance records (are these available?)
Building codes (specific rules may dictate the payout).
As for the process of documenting the claim, make sure that you document everything and check damaged areas multiple times. This thorough approach could provide evidence of damage beyond what you previously thought. You also want to have a copy of your insurance policy and a general understanding of what the coverage entails. Knowing your rights is vital in getting the best payout for your Orlando roof claim.
Evidence of Damage in a Roof Claim
The most important aspect of the insurance claim is the actual damage involved. It is extremely important to take pictures and document any resulting damage on your roof. The earlier you are able to document, the more accurate the claim will be. Some of the more common types of roof damage include:
Uplifted roof membrane
Missing or broken shingles
Gouge marks and holes created by flying debris
Buffeting of the roof (a strike with telling force)
Leaks
Missing or broken roof sheathing
Broken roof trusses
Damage of roof equipment (i.e. air conditioner)
Separation or uplifting of nails