FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida. Roof damage, when left unfixed, can lead to more costs down the line. In addition to being more-costly going forward, if you fail to address a leaky roof or make repairs when they are needed, your insurance company may later reject a claim, claiming that your failure to mitigate your damages made the problem worse. Additionally, if your roof has suffered damage after a storm, you may need to take certain measures to secure your home from water damage. For example, you may be required to put up a tarp to prevent leakage. However, you do not want to make actual repairs before putting the insurance company on notice and giving them an opportunity to inspect. In many instances, if they do not respond promptly and/or cannot get someone out to inspect quickly enough, it is generally a good practice to put them on notice that you are commencing repairs on a particular date and if they want to inspect, they need to come before that day. It is advisable to give them a reasonable amount of time and to video and/or photograph the roof and the damage, in instances that they have not inspected, in some cases. These decisions can vary from case to case and you should speak to a knowledgeable attorney experienced in property claims.
Because of these liabilities, it is important to check your roof frequently and to fix problems when you notice them. Most people look for damage after a major storm, but your roof can experience damage at any point, so it is important to keep on the lookout for problems before they become a liability. Here are five signs of roof damage:
- Spotting on your ceiling. If the ceiling inside your home is discolored, this could be a sign of a roof leak. According to Popular Mechanics, the place directly above the discoloration may not be the location where the leak can be found. Sometimes water travels through paneling and other material. You may need to check the whole roof to identify the problem.
- Cracking or cupping shingles. If your shingles appear cracked or if they are cupping or deforming, it may be time to replace them. Deterioration of your shingles can make your roof more vulnerable during a storm or may put you at risk of a leak.
- Missing shingles. It goes without saying, but missing shingles indicate that it might be time to give your roof an update.
- Check your attic. Sometimes leaks may not be immediately noted because your attic gets the leaking first. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, you should give your attic a visit after a storm or when performing a regular roof inspection.
- Peeling wall paper. Another sign that moisture is getting into your home is when wall paper peels. Again, the damage may not be directly above the place where you first notice the dampness.
If you notice damage to your roof after a storm, your homeowner’s insurance may be able to cover all or some of your repairs. It is important to make a timely claim and to take steps to protect your home from further water damage, especially if there is a leak or hole in your roof.
Leader & Leader, P.A. are roof damage claim insurance lawyers in Fort Lauderdale, Florida who may be able to help you make a claim. Sometimes roof companies may try to limit coverage by claiming that your roof is too old, that your shingles are not covered, or your deductible may be preventatively high. If you find yourself facing problems with an insurance claim, or if your roof was damaged in a storm, consider reaching out to Leader & Leader, P.A. Visit us at https://leader-law.com. We can speak to adjusters, review your policy, and help you understand your rights under the law.
Leader & Leader, P.A.
633 South Andrews Ave.
Suite 201
Fort Lauderdale, FL33301
Phone: 954-523-2020
