Dealing with expensive repairs is one of the most frustrating aspects of homeownership. If your frisco roof is leaking, potential damages can cost thousands and result in repairs that extend far beyond your roof. For example, the leaks can cause water damage to your valuables. In this article, we discuss how you can find out if your homeowners insurance covers roof repairs so you can get your home back to normal and save money in the process.
Does homeowners insurance cover leaking roofs?
Your homeowners insurance may cover repairs for the leaking roof if the damage was from a fallen tree, wind, fire, vandalism or hail. However, the cover doesn’t extend to damages caused by negligence, wet rot, wear and tear, shrinking, bulging, vermin, birds, rodents and insects. In most cases, your insurer will send a representative to do an inspection on the leak before paying out.
Your insurance won’t pay for the leak if it has been going on for a while so it is important to report a claim as soon as you notice the leak. This also minimizes the damage.
Most insurers will appoint a qualified and approved contractor to undertake repairs of the roof. This will save you money as insurance companies get corporate quotes that are much more discounted than individual quotes. They also do quality work.
However, before filing a claim, it is important to have an idea of how much deductible you will be charged by the insurance. There is no need to file a claim if the deductible will be more than the cost of repair.
How can you spot leaks?
It is not easy to spot a roof leak, especially if the roof is sloped. Water could get in at one part of the roof then trickle down to another before being noticed. The leak only becomes apparent when it starts staining the ceiling or the walls.
Finding the source of the leak is the first step you should take. Look for any raised nail, cracks near vent pipes or the base of the chimney, misaligned shingles or a misplaced gutter.
You can also check the attic for any moisture, molds or wet wood when it rains. Attics may have a musty smell if there is a leak. Growth of molds can prevent you from stopping a leak early enough so always clear them as soon as you notice them.
On a dry day, you can use a garden hose to find the source of the leak and fix it before the rains come. This will save you from water damage especially when the rains in Frisco start to pick up. You can also look out for discoloration on the rafters or wood sheathing. The discoloration is usually caused by water and it may be from a leak.
If you are unsure of how to go about it, you can contact us for an expert assessment of your home roofing.
What to do when you find a leak?
Notice a roof leak and don’t know what to do about it? These steps will save you from the pain of a leaking roof:
The first step after discovering a roof leak is to try and minimize the water damage. Move any valuable away from the leaking water. You can contain the water by putting a container below the leak. If you are unable to contain it, give us a call and we’ll be at your doorstep in the shortest time possible.
Take out the carpets or furniture that may have gotten in contact with the water to dry. This prevents them from rotting or damaging.
You can then contact your insurance to see if you qualify for repairs or compensation from the damage. This is especially necessary if the damage is heavy and repairs may cost a lot.
Ensure that the leak is fixed by a professional, that way you will avoid the hustle and risks that come with a DIY job. If you have questions or would like to receive a free inspection, give us a call today.
Make routine assessments of your Frisco home to ensure potential leaks are taken care of before they become a disaster. Trim the tree branches around the house, check the chimneys and vents for cracks and keep the gutters and downspouts clean always.
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