Roof warranties often cover material defects or workmanship issues, but they rarely include storm or hurricane damage. In fact, failing to take the right precautions before or after a storm can void the warranty altogether, leaving homeowners vulnerable to expensive repairs or even full roof replacement costs out-of-pocket.
With peak hurricane season upon us in Florida, understanding the specific terms of your roof warranty and homeowners insurance is crucial to ensure your property—and your roof warranty—are adequately protected. While warranties don’t cover natural disasters, insurance may help with damage relief. By following the specific procedures in your warranty and incorporating a few key best practices, you can help safeguard both your property and your coverage.
Pre-Storm Preparations
1. Review Your Warranty:
- Understand the terms and conditions of your No Dollar Limit or prorated warranty.
- Identify what is covered and any exclusions or limitations.
2. Inspect and Document Your Property:
- Conduct regular inspections of your property.
- Document the condition of your building components with photos, videos and written reports before the storm hits.
3. Preventive Measures:
- Take steps to safeguard your property before a storm, such as securing loose items and clearing the gutters.
- Ensure all repairs and maintenance are up to date and performed by authorized contractors.
Post-Storm Actions
1. Walk Through the Property:
- Conduct a thorough inspection of your property as soon as it is safe to do so. Focus on key areas like the roof, windows and siding.
2. Document Damage:
- Document any damage with photos, videos and written reports. Keep detailed records of all observations.
- Use the findings from your post-storm roof inspection to support any claims made through your homeowner’s insurance.
3. Contact Your Warranty Provider:
- Reach out to your warranty provider with all necessary information, including warranty documents and photos of damage. They will likely conduct a post-storm inspection at the cost of the association. This inspection report can also be utilized in your insurance claim.
- Hire your warranty provider to complete any necessary repairs caused by storm damage. The work must be completed by the warranty provider to reinstate the warranty, as a contractor cannot warranty another contractor’s work.
Navigating the unpredictable aftermath of a major storm may feel overwhelming. We’re here to help you through the process. Schedule a free consultation today to learn how to protect your community during storm season.
