This is the first blog post of many to educate homeowners about their roof, storms, and insurance policies.
Roofs are literally on every structure in existence and are constantly being damaged by storms, wind, hurricanes, hail, and other forces of nature. Roofs also come in many shapes and sizes and use a broad array of shingles – from tar to ceramic. One of the biggest issues with roofing damage is the difficulty of matching the replacement shingles that your insurance pays for and current shingles from before the damage. Insurance companies will almost always try to push you to accept a partial repair. A partial repair is when your insurance only pays to replace the damaged areas of the roof and nothing more. A majority of partial repairs look ugly and do not match the preexisting roof. Do not accept this option that may lower the value of your house when you could be entitled to the full replacement of your damaged roof.
What Is at Risk If My Roof Is Damaged?
Most people at some point experience some sort of roof damage or leak. The reality is that usually the tiny brown leak-spot on the kitchen ceiling is most likely the least of the potential damage. Roof damage can lead to devastating consequences if not addressed, such as:
- Rotting Wood
- Water Soaked Insulation
- Mold
- Insect Infestation
- Toxic Mold
- inhabitation
If you see any of these signs you may want to make a claim with your insurance provider or if you have been denied your claim, you may want to speak to an attorney. Toxic mold can be deadly and requires immediate action.
How Can I Tell If My Roof Is Damaged?
Roof damage is often caused by windstorms, hurricanes, hailstorms, and defective installation. If you believe you may have roof damage it is important for you to inspect your house for signs. Signs of a damaged roof may range from blatant missing shingles to dents in your gutters. While you inspect your roof and gutters, try to keep an eye out for these:
- Missing Shingles
- Crease Marks In Your Singles
- Holes In Pool Screens Or Window Screens
- Impact Marks, Dents, Or Dings On Gutters
- Impact Marks, Dents, Or Dings On Shingles
- Leaks Inside Of Your Home
- Water Discoloration On Ceilings
- Visible Mold
- The Smell Of Mold
If you found any or multiple of these you may be entitled to a roof repair or a new roof.
If You Think You Need a Lawyer
If you believe your home is subject to roof damage and need help during the claim process do not hesitate to contact to contact a lawyer or make a claim. The more signs of roof damage, the more important it is to have your home checked out to prevent further damage and possibly deadly mold. If you do not see visible roof defects but believe your roof is in fact defective, a lawyer can hire an engineer to test your roof.
If you liked this information go to www.DifatoLaw.com to read more. If you need to speak to a lawyer call the Difato Law Office at 904-347-5588 for a free consultation and evaluation of your home or simply fill out a free case evaluation form.
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