Author, Jack Marrs, Associate Account Executive, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
Leaky roofs can be a major headache for commercial property owners, often leading to significant damage and costly repairs. Understanding how insurance policies respond to these situations is crucial in navigating the claims process.
When is a Leaky Roof Covered?
Insurance policies typically cover leaky roofs under certain conditions. The key factor is whether the leak resulted from an unexpected and accidental event, such as a storm causing direct damage to the roof. For instance, if a storm creates a hole or crack in your roof, allowing water to penetrate and cause damage, your insurance policy will likely cover the repairs.
When is a Leaky Roof Not Covered?
On the other hand, if the leak is due to a lack of maintenance or general wear and tear over time, the insurance carrier will typically deny the claim. Routine maintenance and upkeep are the property owner's responsibility, and insurance policies are not designed to cover damages resulting from negligence or normal wear and tear. Also, the age of the roof can determine if the claim will not be covered.
According to the Raizner Slania lawfirm, “In most cases, roof damage on a roof that is 20 years old or older, which accounts for the lifespan of most shingle roofs, will not be covered. A roof on a commercial property can also be deemed too old if one of the lower layers is 20 years old and a new layer was simply added to it rather than the whole roof being replaced.”
Ensuring That Your Claim is Covered
To ensure that your insurance claim for a leaky roof is covered, it is important to document the cause of the damage. If a storm has caused the damage, take photos of the roof and any other affected areas. These photos can serve as evidence when you file your claim. Additionally, maintaining your roof regularly and addressing minor issues before they worsen can help you avoid the claim being denied. Keep records of any maintenance work and inspections conducted on your roof as these documents will be helpful if you need to prove that the damage was not due to lack of upkeep/maintenance.
Remember, if a storm directly causes the damage that leads to a leak, your insurance policy will likely cover the repairs. However, if the leak is due to poor maintenance or normal wear and tear, your insurance policy will most likely deny the claim. By staying up to date with roof maintenance and documenting any storm related damage, you can feel confident your claim will be covered.
To discuss your organization’s potential exposure to property claims, contact me at (619) 486-6569 or jmarrs@ranchomesa.com.