Top Reasons Why Roof Claims Are Denied

Roof claims are a common occurrence for homeowners with insurance policies. And it's easy to understand why - the roof is an essential component of your home that needs continuous repair or replacement over time. But even if you have a policy that covers the cost of repairing or replacing your roof, you could still end up with your claim being denied. If you're wondering why this happens, read on to discover the top reasons why roof claims are denied.

1. Age of the Roof

One of the most common reasons why roof claims are denied is because of the age of the roof. Most insurance companies only cover roofs that are up to 20 years old, which means if your roof is older than that, you may not get any compensation if it is damaged. Furthermore, the insurance company may only pay for the actual cash value of your roof, which is its value minus the depreciation of the roof over time.

2. Lack of Maintenance

Insurance companies expect homeowners to maintain their roofs regularly. If the damage to your roof is due to a lack of maintenance, the insurance company might deny your claim. Examples of issues that can arise from neglect include leaks due to clogged gutters, mold due to trapped moisture and structural damage from pests like termites.

3. Pre-existing Conditions

If there were pre-existing issues with your roof before you signed up for the insurance policy, you might have trouble getting a claim approved. For example, if the roof had pre-existing hail damage, it might not be covered under your policy. Hence, you should get a professional roof inspection before signing up for an insurance policy to avoid such complications.

4. Acts of Nature

Natural disasters such as flood, fire or hurricane can cause extensive damage to the roof. However, the insurance company will only approve the claim if they can prove that the damage happened as a result of an "act of nature." Claims are often challenged if the damage was due to the homeowner's negligence or improper installation.

5. Incorrect Workmanship

Finally, if your roof has ever been repaired or installed incorrectly, your claim may be denied. Insurance companies expect homeowners to hire professional contractors to work on their roofs. Ensure you engage qualified, certified, and insured professionals to maintain and replace your roof to avoid any unnecessary roadblocks during your claims process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the top reasons why roof claims are denied boil down to homeowners neglecting their roofs and their insurance policies. Always take proactive measures to maintain your roof, hire reputable certified contractors for repairs and replacements. If you're looking for insurance loss adjuster in South Florida and need help with your roof damage claim, reach out to Five Star Claims Adjusting for a free inspection of your roof damage. Knowing the reasons why claims are denied sets you up for a much more successful process in the future. Have confidence in speaking to the insurance company and keep accurate records of repair and maintenance for your roof.