Texas experiences what feels like more than its fair share of serious storms, and they often cause roof damage. If you have a roof insurance storm damage claim, it’s important to know what’s covered and what’s not. To ensure that you receive the compensation to which you’re entitled, the most important step you can take is to retain the skilled legal guidance of an experienced Texas storm damage attorney from Moore Law Firm early in the process.
Roof Insurance Storm Damage
Texas homeowners insurance covers a wide range of losses related to roof damage in storm damage claims, but you should know that it does not cover everything. Further, your insurance provider is driven by profits, which means it will do what it can to limit your settlement to the degree possible. In other words, you will need to put considerable effort into recovering the full value of your covered losses, and a determined storm damage lawyer can help you with that.
What’s Generally Covered
Homeowners coverage in Texas typically covers damage to roofs that is caused by many of the effects of serious storms. It is important to point out, however, that every claim is specific to the unique circumstances that apply, including the parameters set by the policy itself, which makes ensuring that your coverage is comprehensive and that you are well protected paramount.
Wind Damage
Heavy winds can do serious damage to your roof, including lifting shingles off, breaking shingles, and destroying the fascia, soffit, and gutters that are key components of your roof, and the related price tag can be extremely high.
Hail Damage
A serious hailstorm can destroy roofs, and even a relatively minor hailstorm can cause serious damage. Hail damage is usually covered by homeowners policies.
Damage Caused by Lightning
Lightning can do a number on your home’s roof, and it can lead to structural damage that ultimately affects the overall value of your home. Generally, lightning leaves distinctive burn and char marks that often accompany holes and other signs of roof damage that your professional roofing contractor will have no trouble identifying.
Damage Caused by Heavy Rain
Relentless or wind-driven rain can leave your home’s roof seriously damaged, which can include water damage, leaking, and mold growth – in addition to causing structural damage. Your homeowners policy should cover the damage to your roof that’s caused by heavy rain.
What Generally Isn’t Covered
There are also several issues that your homeowners policy won’t cover, and it’s a good idea to acquaint yourself with them.
Cosmetic Damage (Revised)
Cosmetic damage usually applies to metal roofs that have been damaged by wind or hail. Insurance companies often use this endorsement to deny claims. However, the term “cosmetic damage” is frequently misused because large dents or wind-lifted metal sheet panels might appear to be only cosmetic issues at first glance, but upon closer inspection, these damages are permanent and can significantly reduce the lifespan of the roof. They can also cause the roof to leak soon after the storm, which would be covered under the policy. Importantly, if the property owner notices any interior damage or leaks, then the cosmetic exclusion is not valid. This distinction is crucial because what might be dismissed as merely aesthetic damage could actually indicate structural issues that warrant coverage.
Flood Damage (Revised)
Flood damage refers specifically to rising water—which is not classified as storm damage under the terms of insurance policies. This is an important distinction from storm damage, which creates openings in the roof or breaks windows, allowing rain water to enter the house or property and cause damages (which would be covered under a standard homeowner’s policy). Flood damage from rising water is only covered under a separate flood damage insurance policy. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, carrying this
separate flood policy is highly recommended, as your standard homeowner’s insurance will not cover damage caused by rising water.
Everyday Wear and Tear
Roofs don’t work at peak performance forever, and over time, they become less effective at doing their job. If the storm damage to your roof is determined to be more a matter of its age than the strength of the storm, your claim probably won’t be covered.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Roofs require regular maintenance to perform well, and if your roof damage is directly related to inadequate maintenance – rather than to the storm itself – your insurance provider will very likely deny your claim.
Damage Caused by Earthquakes
While Texas isn’t considered prime earthquake territory, they do happen here, and they’re becoming more frequent. Earthquakes can cause serious roof damage, and most homeowners policies don’t cover this brand of damage. If you live in an earthquake-prone area of Texas, which includes the Panhandle, West Texas, North Texas, and South-Central Texas, purchasing separate coverage might be in your best interest.
Turn to an Experienced Award Winning Texas Storm Damage Lawyer for the Help You Need
The well-respected Texas storm damage attorneys at Moore Law Firm have earned a stellar reputation for helping valued clients like you bring strong storm-related roof damage claims, which lead to fair settlements that support effective repairs or roof replacements. Your roof plays a critical role in protecting the structural integrity of your home, and roof damage should not be ignored.
If you’ve weathered a serious storm recently and believe your roof was damaged in the process, don’t hesitate to reach out by contacting us online or calling 504-840-5529 for more information about what we can do to help you today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Roof Insurance Storm Damage in Texas
Q: What types of storm damage to roofs are typically covered by Texas homeowners insurance?
A: Texas homeowners insurance generally covers roof damage caused by wind, hail, lightning, and heavy rain. These policies aim to protect against sudden and accidental damage from severe weather events common in the region.
Q: What types of roof damage are typically not covered by Texas homeowners insurance?
A: Homeowners insurance in Texas usually does not cover cosmetic damage, flood damage (which often requires a separate flood policy), damage from everyday wear and tear, damage due to lack of regular maintenance, or damage caused by earthquakes (which may also require separate coverage).
Q: If I suspect my roof has storm damage, what should I do to ensure a successful insurance claim?
A: If you suspect roof insurance storm damage, document the damage with photos and videos, contact a professional roofing contractor for an assessment, and consult with an experienced Texas storm damage attorney. Legal guidance can help ensure you receive fair compensation for covered losses.