subject: Keeping your claim coverage "in-tact" after a storm [print this page] Keeping your claim coverage "in-tact" after a storm
Please use this reference and validation document as a guide and checklist to make sure the proper steps are taken and even the simplest procedures followed after any type of storm.
These simple actions taken on your part irrespective of a roofing contractor or insurance adjustor, will help you greater protect your property (building roof) by instructing you on how to legitimately comply with your policies Loss Conditions and Provisions and prepare the details required by your insurance company regardless of damage or claim or property status.
The duties following loss conditions lists the insured responsibilities after a loss, including:
Giving prompt notice of claim to the insurance company or agent: Because most Insured's are not familiar with a roofing system and actual or potential damage after a storm, usually a notice is not given to the Insurance Company. A routine inspection is not helpful after a storm. Some of the most costly and significant damage that can result in a claim is non-visible to the eye or standard inspection methods. Make sure that more advanced inspection technology is used when conducting an inspection. This should happen "promptly" after a storm. Not doing so could be considered a breach of your coverage "duties."
Protecting the property from further damage: This is where most companies get caught. Inspection by a roofing company and the process of filing a claim (if there is actual damage) does not constitute "protecting the property from further damage." As a matter of fact most companies or roofing contractors are not aware of this clauses' critical application and are not prepared to get you in compliance with this specific "duty".
Completing a detailed proof of loss (an official inventory of the damages): This is also difficult to prepare properly. Companies, contractors and even the insurance adjusters rarely have the background, skill and/or specific equipment needed to uncover the most hidden forms of damage. Those not visible to even the most stringent traditional inspections. This often leads the Insured to NOT provide notice. This creates significant challenges if damage is later discovered and a claim attempted. Many times this means a denial of claim and can even mean a loss of coverage.
Making the property available for inspection by the company: Because the Insured is usually not aware of damage (most generally not visible) they assume there is no need to notify the Insurance Company. The result of which can be a loss of coverage on attempted future claims.
Submitting to examination under oath if required: Following many storms Insurers will call the Insured and ask them if they were affected. In the event that the Insured does not conduct proper examination of the property for damage, the result can be denial of future claims as the Insured would comment that they were not affected. In the event damage is later discovered, those comments combined with current testimony may be submitted as evidence in the resolution process.
Assisting the insurer as required during the claim investigation procedure: It is important for the Insured to have prepared the appropriate documentation and property condition declarations to assist the claims investigation process. Most times this has not been done by either the Insured or the roofing contractor. If there is a loss of coverage in whole or part, the required repairs or replacement becomes the financial obligation of the Insured.
It is imperative that each of these items be addressed with strict attention to detail by professionals trained in each respective field. Failure to do so may result in a legal forfeiture of your claim to compensation for damages. Should you wish to utilize our complimentary expertise and immense specialized resources in addressing these matters, contact us at: www.castroroofing.com
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