When your roof springs a leak, sometimes you know about it right away ‘ as when there is water dripping on your head in the living room. Other times, there are no visible signs of a leak and damage slowly spreads in the interior of your home without your knowledge. In either scenario, roof leaks require prompt repair but can be costly. When you are filing a roof leak insurance claim to pay for the roof damage, it is important to understand the coverages of your homeowners insurance policy and what to do if your claim is denied.
Homeowners policies and roof leaks
Homeowners often ask if their homeowners insurance policy will cover roof leaks and any resulting damage. And the answer to this question is that it depends upon the cause of the leak. If a hurricane, windstorm, hail damage, tornado, or other weather-related event damaged your roof, your homeowners insurance policy will likely cover roof repair or replacement. If a tree comes crashing down onto your roof and causes damage, your homeowners insurance policy will cover the costs of the damage. If, on the other hand, the roof was not properly maintained and wear and tear was the cause of your roof leak, then your homeowners insurance policy will not cover the cost of replacement or repair.
Know the terms of your insurance policy
When it comes to insurance, it is important as a policyholder to read over your homeowners insurance policy so you fully understand the coverages that are provided and any deductibles that must be satisfied. Review the homeowners policy declaration page to see what perils are covered or excluded. And consult your insurance provider if you have questions regarding your policy and, whenever possible, obtain written responses to your questions.
Don’t wait to file your claim
The statute of limitations for property damage claims ‘ the legal timeframe for filing a claim in the civil courts ‘ is four years in the state of Florida. If you do not file your claim within four years of the roof damage or within four years of learning that there was damage to your roof, then you have lost your opportunity to recover any compensation for your roof damage.
Questions regarding your roof leak insurance claim? Let us help
When reviewing your homeowners insurance policy, it is not always easy to determine what damages are covered and what damages are not. Let us help. The experienced disaster recovery attorneys at Ged Lawyers, LLP are knowledgeable in all aspects of insurance claims and skillfully navigate the complexities of the claims process to recover compensation for your property damage. Contact a member of our team today ‘ we are happy to answer your questions and discuss how we can help; we can be reached at 844-443-3529 or online.
