Apart from the health and safety hazards of cold, freezing temperatures and frightening snowstorms, winter weather can be tremendously damaging to your home. It is crucial to think about the effects of common winter problems, such as collapsed roofs and flooded basements, and know whether your homeowner’s insurance policy will have you covered. Local roof and siding contractors discuss what you need to know in this article.
Snow Damage
Snow and ice are two of the leading causes of home exterior damage in the winter. For instance, the additional weight of snow buildup on top of a roof can prompt the structure to sag and collapse, especially when the roof is already old and frail or has been previously damaged. When the homeowner fails to remove snow from the roof and it inevitably melts, the water can seep into cracks and holes in the roofing system and refreeze, causing bigger and more expensive damage.
What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?
According to a trusted siding and door replacement contractor, your homeowner’s insurance policy covers residential property damage, but only those that result directly from winter weather events. Some examples include roof collapse due to accumulation of snow, fallen trees on homes, wind damage during a blizzard and displacement due to a sweeping power outage.
What Is Not Covered?
A critical factor that can significantly affect the scope of damage your insurance policy covers is homeowner negligence. This pertains to the neglect of standard care and maintenance that allows your home to withstand winter weather. For example, if your roof, attic and interior walls are damaged due to melting snow seeping through the roofing system and the claims adjuster determines that the roof is in poor condition or improperly installed, there is a great chance that you will end up footing the bill on your own.
Polk Contracting, Inc. is a leading insurance restoration and window and door contractor in Abingdon, Bel Air, MD and the surrounding communities. Our top-rated team is committed to providing the comfort and efficiency you need through industry-leading products and outstanding customer service. Call us today at (410) 994-2801 or fill out our contact form to request a free, no-obligation estimate. We proudly serve homeowners in all of Harford, Cecil and Baltimore Counties.
