Home insurance companies typically have instructions and guidelines for their Roof Hail Damage adjusters. The guidelines detail just how to adjust various types of roof losses. It is very helpful for the policyholder to be aware of some of the guidelines before tackling his or her hail damage claim with the home insurance company. The sample State Farm operation guide below is for adjusters. It is intended to provide direction on handling roof claims that involve damage from wind and hail.
“Damage occurs to roof coverings when water shedding ability or the life expectancy of the material is reduced. . . . ….
Granular Loss: Granular loss occurs naturally and is inherent to composition roofing products as a result of weathering. The general rule is we will not pay for granular loss, since it does not affect the watertight integrity of the roof. Granules serve two main functions on asphalt roofing, block ultraviolet light from the asphalt and provide color to the roof. . . . Hail can cause actual damage to composition roofing in conjunction with heavy granular loss. Where there is excessive granular loss accompanying actual roof damage caused by hail, and it affects the integrity and utility of the roof, consider payment for granular loss. . . .
Wind: Wind damage to asphalt shingles occurs when a portion of the shingle is blown off the roof, or the shingle is bent backwards and a fracture forms through the matting material. If the wind caused the seals to break, it may require hand sealing.
Unsealed Shingles: . . . It is important to note any unsealed shingles that may be observed during the inspection. The claim handler should consider whether the breakage of the bond was caused by accidental direct physical loss, which may include, looking for evidence of tearing on the shingle below or by observing residue underneath the shingle from the sealant. “
State Farm’s admission that “damage” includes a reduction in the life expectancy of the material is very important to remember. In other words, minor roof damage caused by wind or hail often reduces the life expectancy of roofing materials, specifically your asphalt shingles. Those working with adjusters regarding the recent San Antonio hail claims must remember this principal when asking the insurance adjuster whether the winds and hail from the spring hail storms caused “damage” to the home and its roofing materials.
If your insurance company is not paying you the full amount of your hail or roof damage claim or has denied your claim, please contact us today 1-888-724-HAIL (4245). We have experience dealing with insurance companies, and we would love to help you get the money you deserve.
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