Like other homeowner insurance claims, your home may not be properly habitable or functional and you may need to live somewhere else until some or all repairs can be made. This is often covered by the Additional Living Expense (otherwise known as ALE) provision of most policies. In many instances, insurance companies never advise you of this coverage and right under your policy which is one of many examples of how we have seen clients treated unfairly.
Insurance Companies May Try to Limit Coverage
Because roof damage costs insurance companies every year, some companies try to limit claims on certain types of damages. Some companies have limited what damages clients can claim. If your policy has changed, your coverage may be limited. For instance, in recent years, insurance companies have limited coverage for hail damage. Some policies may not cover roofs older than ten years. Other policies have added deductibles, or may not cover certain types of shingles. It is important to read over your policy to make sure your roof and materials are covered. In other cases, your insurance company may only agree to perform a partial roof repair.
We have had claims where the insurance company sent out an adjuster who determined the cause of water damage from the roof was “normal wear and tear” which is often not covered. However, when we went to the home and/or had a public adjuster or engineer go out, there was no basis for such a determination at all. Despite the fact that the roof damage was covered and the claim should have been paid, the insurance company merely refused to pay and denied the claim causing us to have to sue on our client’s behalf. What is helpful is that once it is necessary to sue to enforce your rights under your policy of insurance, in almost all cases when we prevail, the insurance company will be obligated to pay all reasonable attorney fees and costs so it does not come out of your recovery or pocket!
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It is important to also distinguish between replacement value coverage and cash value of roof coverage. Replacement value coverage will pay for the actual cost of repairing or replacing your roof. Cash value coverage will only pay you for the value of your roof, meaning that if your roof is older, the cash value may be lower. Policies can be confusing. If your roof is damaged and you are not sure what you are entitled to receive, it may be a good idea to speak to a roof damage insurance claim lawyer in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Leader, Leader & Zucker, PLLC Attorneys at Law may be able to help you.
Need Help With a Roof Damage Claim?
Any damage to your home can create a stressful situation. You may be eager to settle with your insurance company to move forward and repair your roof. Yet, settling too soon and not asking the right questions can sometimes lead to you settling for less than you may deserve. If your insurance isn’t paying for the cost of damages, or if you feel like you’ll have to pay out of pocket to repair your damaged roof, you may want to speak to a roof damage insurance claim attorney.Leader, Leader & Zucker, PLLC Attorneys at Law take seriously the commitment that insurance companies have to the clients they serve. We fight to protect consumers’ rights in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.