A leaky roof is much more than a simple headache. If they are left unattended, the damage could permeate throughout your entire home. By repairing them quickly, you prevent additional costs from accruing.
Types of Roof Damage
Before you call someone to repair your roof, it would be best to determine what kind of damage you have. Typically, damage to your roof will come from one of three sources. Consequently, it should not take long to narrow down the possibilities.
Impact Damage:
Impact damage can occur from many things. Has there been a hailstorm in your area recently? Have there been any trees that have fallen? Anything that hits the roof could damage your shingles.
Wind Damage:
Wind can also blow your shingles away. Certain areas of the country must worry about this much more than other places. If you live somewhere with high wind speeds, it could be the cause of your roof problems.
Water Damage:
Water damage is the most common type of damage done to roofs. Not only can this damage the structure of your home, but it can also encourage the growth of mold. If you suspect your home has water damage, you must fix it immediately. Leaving water damage unattended can have unexpected consequences.
Identifying Roof Leaks
How do you identify whether your roof has a leak? Locating a leak in your roof is not as challenging of an endeavor as you might guess. Thanks to the properties of water, we can follow the leak right to its source.
Venture Into the Attic:
When you live somewhere with an attic, it will be your first stop when investigating leaks. If you are lucky, you will see the leak as soon as you get into the attic. Otherwise, search around for any obvious signs of water.
Use a Garden Hose:
If there is not any water flowing in your attic, grab your garden hose. Then, spray your roof with it. While you are spraying the roof with the hose, have another person inside of the attic to check for water.
Home Insurance Coverage for Roof Damage
So, you discovered a water leak in your roof. What are you going to do about it now? Hopefully, you have good homeowners insurance. If so, there is a good chance the damage is covered by your policy. On the other hand, not all damages are covered by such policies.
Dwelling Insurance:
Dwelling insurance covers the physical property itself, including roof damage. Most policies include coverage for specific perils. These typically include things such as trees falling and hail damage. You should contact your insurance agent to discuss the details of your policy further. That way, you will know what is covered when you need to use your policy.
Personal Property Insurance:
Most homeowners do not get personal property insurance. It is not included with their homeowner’s insurance policy. Consequently, if you have damage to your personal property, it would not be covered. We recommend considering personal property insurance. If you are concerned about your things being destroyed, it will give you peace of mind.
When to Contact a Public Adjuster
After conquering the initial stages of dealing with roof damage, keep in mind that insurance companies primarily have their beneficial gains in mind, whereas a public adjuster works to get you the maximum amount you are due. Reach out to Exodus Public Adjusters for assistance with your claim.