Your home’s roof helps preserve the structural integrity of your property, and even relatively minor damage can lead to serious consequences. The state of Texas, for example, sees some major hailstorms and windstorms, and the roofs can take the brunt of it. Whether or not the damage to your roof is covered by your insurance policy depends on several important factors that you’re well advised to acquaint yourself with.
If you have questions or concerns about roof damage, one of the most important steps you can take is to reach out for the skilled legal guidance of an experienced roof damage attorney at Moore Law Firm.
Where You Live Matters
For example, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) reports that whether or not your homeowners’ policy will cover storm damage that’s caused by windstorms, including hurricanes and hail, depends on where you live in the state. If you live anywhere in the Lone Star State other than along the coast, your homeowners’ policy very likely covers hail and wind damage to your roof – in the same way that it covers lightning and fire. You may, however, have a different deductible when it comes to damage that’s caused by either wind or hail.
Wind and Hail Roof Damage Insurance
Some states, such as Texas, don’t require homeowners to carry wind and hail roof damage insurance coverage. If you are on the coast, however, your mortgage lender will almost certainly require it. Whether you’re covered through your homeowners’ policy or you carry an additional policy, you should know that you’re generally covered for damages caused by acts of nature, such as hail or wind.
Disqualifying Factors
If your roof has damage that you attribute to hail or high winds, you should know that there are certain factors that can disqualify roof coverage, including each of the following:
- When the insurance company attributes most of the damage to wear and tear on your roof over time
- When the bulk of the damage is believed to have been caused by pests, such as rodents or other animals
- When the cause of the damage is associated with improper or inadequate roof maintenance or repairs
- When the damage was caused by flooding or an earthquake – unless you purchased additional coverage that specifically addresses these disasters
- When there is preexisting damage that was caused by an earlier claim
The Insurance Company Handling Your Claim
You purchased an insurance policy specifically to protect you in the event that your roof was damaged in a storm, and the language in your policy may lead you to believe that you’re well covered. The fact is, however, that the insurance company is motivated by profits, which means that it will do what it can to settle your claim for as little as it can get away with.
Insurance companies often delay claims, request duplicative or unnecessary information to overburden you, or even deny your claim outright. Further, even if an insurer seems cooperative, they might be working behind the scenes to undervalue your property damage to minimize what they pay you. If you accept less than you need, it can cause significant financial stress moving forward.
Your Roof Damage Lawyer’s Role
Fortunately, your knowledgeable roof damage attorney at Moore Law Firm will spare no effort in their pursuit of the compensation that you’re owed, including handling each of the following:
- Carefully analyze your policy to determine your coverage limits, any exclusions that may apply, and all applicable laws – in protection of your rights
- Clearly demonstrating the degree to which your roof has been damaged, which will be accomplished in conjunction with professional roof inspectors
- Gathering the evidence necessary to build a strong claim that the insurance company will have difficulty refuting, including photos and videos of the damage, relevant weather reports, repair estimates, and beyond
- Skillfully negotiating with the insurance company for a fair settlement that covers your legal damages in their entirety
- Appealing any disputes that are based on wrongful claim denials or underpayment
- Carefully prepare to resolve your case in court – in the event that the insurance company isn’t interested in negotiations that uphold your rights
Having a seasoned roof damage lawyer backing you up can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim and in your ability to protect your home.
It’s Time to Consult with an Experienced Roof Damage Attorney Today
The capable roof damage lawyers at Moore Law Firm – proudly serving the residents of the Rio Grande Valley – have an impressive track record of successfully resolving even the most challenging claims, and we’re here for you, too. If your home’s roof was damaged by hail, wind, or anything else, we encourage you to contact us online or call (504) 840-5529 to schedule a free consultation and learn more today.