Living in the Nashville area, residents are all too familiar with elemental threats that could potentially damage their homes. A hailstorm, in particular, can cause significant damage to GAF roofing and James Hardie siding. Among the many concerns ceaselessly beating against their minds like hailstones upon a rooftop, one question stands out: does insurance cover your roof after a hailstorm?
Homeowners Insurance Coverage in Middle Tennessee
Generally speaking, most homeowners’ insurance policies offer roof damage coverage. This coverage usually encompasses unpreventable and unexpected incidents like fire, vandalism, and, yes, even hailstorms. It’s important to note, however, that specific coverage depends on your individual policy and potential exclusions it might have. Make sure you confirm if your roof is covered by insurance after a hailstorm.
GAF Roofing and James Hardie Siding are specifically engineered to endure extreme weather conditions prevalent in Middle Tennessee. However, having an insurance policy that covers hailstorm incidences can give you peace of mind.
The Policy Depreciation Clause
An important factor to consider when insuring your Nashville home is whether your policy includes an Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV). ACV policies account for depreciation and will only pay out the current market value of your damaged roof at the time of the incident. In contrast, an RCV policy ensures the complete replacement of your damaged roof regardless of age or condition. Therefore, understanding the depreciation clause is essential to know if roof replacements are covered by insurance after a hailstorm.
Potential Exclusions and Limitations
In areas prone to hailstorms, like Nashville and broader Middle Tennessee, some insurers may exclude hail from their standard policies or charge much higher premiums for this coverage. They could also impose a separate wind and hail deductible, typically higher than your general deductible. It’s critical to understand your policy wording and consult your agent about potential loopholes or limitations. By doing so, you can ascertain if your roof will be covered by insurance after a hailstorm.
Filing a Claim After a Hailstorm
Immediately after a hailstorm, inspect your home’s exterior, roofing, and siding, paying close attention to potential signs of damage. Note that hiring a professional may be worthwhile to spot less apparent damages. This thorough inspection helps ensure your roof is properly assessed for insurance purposes after a hailstorm.
Once detected, contact your insurance company promptly to file a claim. They’ll send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the claim payout. Always keep detailed records of all communications and maintain receipts of any immediate repairs you have to undertake.
If a hailstorm damaged your roof, contact DominionX today for a quote on repairs or replacements.
