Homeownership brings joy and stability, but it also comes with the responsibility of protecting your property from unforeseen damages. Unfortunately, bad weather strikes, accidents happen, and sometimes homeowners are faced with needing emergency renovations like a roof replacement.

Paying for renovations out of pocket can be expensive, which is why in dire situations, homeowner’s insurance plays a crucial role in safeguarding your budget and providing financial support in times of need.

Sadly, the world of navigating insurance claims that will cover the damage is complex. So, let’s explore the most common situations where you, as a homeowner, can file a claim to protect your assets.

Severe Weather Events

Mother Nature can wreak havoc on your home, especially during severe weather events. If your property sustains damage from hurricanes, tornadoes, hailstorms, or heavy winds, it is usually advisable to file an insurance claim.

Common problems like roof damage can easily lead to roof leaks that quickly become mold infestations and structural problems. Filing a claim as soon as possible can help you get the issue under control before expenses truly rack up.

Assess the extent of the damage and consult your insurance policy to determine coverage for weather-related incidents. If you need help determining the extent of your damages, our roofers can perform a drone inspection that ensures you don’t overlooks roof damage that recent storms have caused.

Fire and Smoke Damage

Fires can cause devastating damage to homes, leaving homeowners grappling with loss and destruction. If your property experiences fire damage, regardless of the cause, filing an insurance claim is crucial.

Fire can compromise the structure of your home, destroy personal belongings, and lead to the need for extensive repairs. Additionally, smoke damage can be pervasive and require professional remediation. Document the damage, including photographs and detailed descriptions, to support your claim.

Keep in mind that while most fire and smoke situations are covered under standard homeowner insurance policies, your home may not be covered if the insurance company deems it “vacant.” This definition varies from agency to agency, so you’ll have to check with your insurance provider regarding the circumstances surrounding your situation.

Water Damage

Water damage is a common concern for homeowners and can arise from various sources, including burst pipes, plumbing issues, roof leaks, or natural disasters.

If the damage is significant and beyond what you can reasonably handle on your own, filing an insurance claim is recommended. Water damage can lead to mold growth, structural deterioration, and damage to personal property, all of which can be costly to repair.

Is everything covered under water damage? Sadly, like all insurance issues the answer is no.

If your water damage stems from a burst pipe inside the home that isn’t due to neglect, you’re likely covered. However, if the damage came from an outside source like a flood, flood insurance beyond standard homeowner’s insurance is needed to cover repairs like flooring issues or full-on renovations.

Theft and Vandalism

Burglaries and acts of vandalism can leave homeowners feeling violated and their properties damaged. If you have experienced a break-in or malicious damage to your home, promptly file a police report and notify your insurance provider.

Homeowner’s insurance typically covers theft and vandalism, allowing you to recoup the losses and repair the damages. Document any stolen or damaged items and provide evidence such as photographs, receipts, or appraisals to support your claim.

Keep in mind that the aforementioned vacancy rule for coverage also applies to theft and vandalism claims.

Got Homeowners Insurance?

Knowing when to file a homeowner’s insurance claim for damages is vital to keeping your house feeling like a home.

From severe weather events to petty vandalism, your home is exposed to external elements that could lead to unexpected and sometimes expensive renovations and repairs.

Whether you have coverage or need help navigating the insurance claims process, the experienced roofers at Shepherd Roofing & Renovations help you get your home repaired and back on track in the DFW Metroplex.

Contact us to learn more about our decades of experience and how our services can make your home beautiful from the inside out.