How does my homeowner’s insurance policy protect my home’s roof? The roof is one of the fundamental structures of a property. In Florida, it’s common for shelters to sustain damage due to wind, hail, falling trees or objects, excessive sun, and the passage of time, leading to insurance claims.
I want to point out that understanding what aspects your homeowner’s insurance policy covers is crucial for making an effective claim. Typically, a standard homeowner’s insurance policy covers damages related to wind (storms and hurricanes), hail damage, water damage (leaks and water entry resulting from covered risks), and damage caused by impacts, such as a tree falling onto the house’s roof. It also covers debris or other objects propelled by a storm or anything whose impact damages the roof.
However, it’s essential to understand that insurance contracts often have exclusions. For instance, roofs are not protected against gradual deterioration or lack of maintenance. This means that if you have a leak caused by the gradual decline of the top, lack of care, or the aging of the structure, the insurance company will not cover the claim.
Most insurance providers also won’t cover pre-existing problems or those arising from structural deficiencies. If your property’s roof is damaged due to poor installation, shoddy repairs, or inadequate maintenance, the insurance company may not cover the damage in case of a claim.
That said, it’s important to remember that any repairs on your home’s roof must comply with the 2007 Florida Building Code and its subsequent versions. You may need to obtain a permit from local authorities before undertaking any roof improvements, and the contractor must be licensed appropriately. By meeting these conditions, you should be able to file a claim if your roof sustains damage.
In summary, having homeowner’s insurance is not enough; as a property owner, you must maintain your roof, prevent deterioration, replace damaged shingles promptly, remove any unwanted vegetation that may grow on the top, and apply anti-moss treatments when necessary. How does my homeowner’s insurance policy protect my home’s roof?
Give us a call today for a comprehensive assessment! (305) 267-7138. You can also get a free quote here.
