Hurricane damage INSURANCE claims

Roof tarping is a commonly accepted temporary repair. “Loose lay” is a term some mitigation contractors are using to reference brand new membrane roof material laid loosely on the roof and secured with rocks. While this may work, it’s extremely expensive and it could burn through your policy limits while not even providing a permanent solution. Another term is “shrink wrapping” where again, the fix can cost more than the actual repair, diminishing your policy limits.

Tile roofs can appear unscathed after a storm but wind uplift tests can provide evidence unseen to the naked eye. Wind can cause the tiles to jiggle up and down or “chatter.” Even though the tiles themselves look fine, their repetitive movement can put small tears and punctures in the underlayment and loosen the fasteners, reducing the ability of the tile to resist future uplift events and remain water tight. Consider hiring a public adjuster or damage expert to perform the appropriate tests.

There are several reasons for this. First, the new fastener will not have the same holding capacity as the original fastener. Water tightness of the underlayment will be compromised where the original fastener was placed. Sealing the fastener hole is not putting the roof back into the position it was prior to the damage occurring. Lastly, installing a larger diameter fastener may not be possible without modifying the tile, which would invalidate the Florida Product Approval.

The high wind blowing over the roof creates a low pressure in accordance with Bernoulli’s principle. This difference of pressure causes an upward thrust and the roof is lifted up. This is why C3 Group recommends that a licensed structural engineer inspect properties to determine if the pressure build up caused more severe damage than meets the eye. The insurance company may provide one of their choice. However, if you have professional fees coverage under your policy, you may be able to use this additional coverage toward hiring one of your choice. Make sure they are a licensed STRUCTURAL engineer (not forensic).

The answer to whether or not wind can affect the performance of a window can be complicated and a proper inspection is essential. Furthermore, the effect of wind forces needs to be considered in context with other factors, such as window maintenance, material properties and possible issues in the original manufacturing. Consider hiring a public adjuster or damage expert to obtain the correct inspections.

At C3 Group, we hire expert industrial hygienists on every water and fire-related loss to inspect, assess and resolve any health and safety issues.

Who do you trust, your contractor or your insurance adjuster? If you have an active claim and you have a large dispute between the amount paid by insurance and what your contractor is stating, it’s a good idea to contact a public adjuster, who can assist you in disputing the claim.

If you have a claim denial or a partially denied claim, it is a good idea to have a licensed public adjuster or attorney review the file to provide a secondary coverage opinion. Our team can review your claim for free.

A qualified restoration contractor can provide an estimate and guide you through the residential claims process. However, if you own or manage a commercial property, policies become more complex and require more detailed reviews of coverage. Oftentimes, insurance companies will require detailed estimates written in a software program, Xactimate. And unfortunately, the vast majority of commercial property claims are underpaid. Our team is certified in Xactimate and includes one of only 48 Xactimate Certified Trainers in the nation. We also have the insurance knowledge and industry expertise you need to ensure your claim is filed accurately, negotiated professionally and paid fairly.