When it comes to property insurance claims, understanding the distinction between deferred maintenance and storm-damaged property is crucial. Insurance policies typically cover sudden and accidental damage caused by storms, but they often exclude damage resulting from long-term neglect or gradual deterioration. Let’s delve into this topic and shed light on what insurance companies cover and what they don’t so you can be better informed and prepared when you experience property damage.
Take rotten wood, for example. While an insurance company may pay to replace a roof damaged by a storm, they may not cover the replacement of the underlying roof decking if it has rotted over time. This is because rot is considered a result of deferred maintenance rather than sudden and accidental damage from the storm. There are rare instances when a policy may provide additional coverage for wood rot, so it’s important to review your specific policy terms and know your policy.
Mold is another issue that highlights the significance of property maintenance. If mold growth is attributed to a storm-related incident, insurance companies will likely cover the costs of remediation. But, if the mold is a consequence of long-term moisture buildup or neglect, you may be responsible for the expenses. This serves as a reminder of the importance of regular property maintenance to avoid such complications during insurance claims.
Ultimately, maintaining your property is essential not only for its overall well-being but also to ensure that you are adequately covered by insurance. By proactively addressing maintenance issues and promptly repairing any damages, you can reduce the risk of potential exclusions and unexpected out-of-pocket expenses when filing an insurance claim. Centennial Roofing is here for all of your roofing needs, from maintenance issues, repairs, or property damage from storms, we have you covered.
