My husband and I have been in our house for almost one year.

by birdiesstyle » Sun Nov 21, 2010 06:16 pm

My husband and I have been in our house for almost one year. The roof needs to be replaced. We wonder if we should try to go through our insurance company. We're concerned, however, that our rates will increase if we do. Is it best to just pay the $10,000 plus ourselves?

The house was built in 1962 and has a rock roof. We've submitted no claims to our insurer as of yet.

Total Comments: 4

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2010 07:26 pm Post Subject:

Why does the roof need to be replaced? Insurance does not cover wear and tear, only sudden and accidental losses.

Posted: Sun Nov 21, 2010 11:37 pm Post Subject:

We have a couple of leaks--in the kitchen and one of the bedrooms. We've obtained three estimates from roofers (for patching as well as complete replacement). All confirm that the roof is shot.

Thanks . . . :)

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2010 12:03 am Post Subject:

Still, _why_ is the roof leaking? Did something fall on and damage it? Old, worn out roofs can leak. Wear and tear is not covered. If it's leaking in different places then it might be several separate losses (separate deductibles) if it's covered. Lastly, if the roof is leaking in a couple of spots this probably does not mean the insurance would pay for a new roof even if it was covered. Those areas could probably be repaired. If more then one loss (if covered) each cost of repair might be under your deductible.

If several areas need to be repaired, your insurance company inspects, they may (probably will) require you to replace the roof if it's old and worn out. This is regardless of these being covered losses.

Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2010 05:24 pm Post Subject:

It sounds as if you have a flat gravel built-up roof. Most likely not much has been done to the roof since the house was built. Flat roofs leak. New rubber flat roofs leak....it is difficult to keep a flat roof from leaking.

The adjuster is going to photo your interior damage...get up on the roof and see no physical damage and deny your roof claim for no direct physical damage. They may or may not cover some interior damage.

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