Homeowners Hail Damage Sends Many Scurrying for Insurance Coverage
Twin Cities, MN (PRWEB) August 27, 2013 -- Twin Cities roof inspectors are finding very few homes were able to escape unscathed if found in the path of the metro's August 6th hail storm. Metro building contractors are working overtime to repair hail damage to area roofs, according to Capstone Bros.
"The Twin Cities hail storm blasted apart roof tiles and shingles. Homeowners who haven't already filed an insurance claim are scurrying to find someone to get repairs done as some home builders are simply swamped with work," says Jenna Thuening, owner of Home Destination.
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry warns homeowners with hail damage by stating: "Homeowners should not sign anything until they have read it carefully and understand the document. In almost every case, the document a contractor asks the homeowner to sign is a legally binding contract, regardless of what the salesperson says."
Home Destination offer the following routine home maintenance tasks every homeowner can do to protect their home's roof:
1) Obtain a Home Inspection: Have a home inspection to check for improper installation of roof vents, sky lights, flues, gutters and chimneys to be sure they are functioning as they are meant to and not weakening your roof.
2) Overhanging Branches Can Damage Roofs: By trimming tree limbs that come in contact with the roof, a homeowner can prevent potential damage to the roof's shingles from high winds. Branches can scratch the shingles, damaging them or loosening them and creating new vulnerabilities.
3) Rodent Roof Damage: It is easy to notice a hail storm that may damage roofs, rodent damage will need a vigilant eye. Nearby low branches may be the perfect access to squirrels and other rodents to get on the roof. They often gnaw at roofing materials and siding.
4) Remove Leaves And Moss: Homeowners can extend the life of their roof by keeping leaves and moss off. Scheduling this routine job in to a home maintenance plan will go help keep a roof damage-free and reduce roof repair jobs before they start.
5) Clean Openings And Apply Roof Patches: Inspect all roof surfaces for punctures, cracks, or seam separations. Before applying a compatible patching compound or sealant, clean well to avoid trapping any decay or moisture inside.
6) Obtain a Windstorm Policy: Most homeowner insurance policies automatically include a windstorm deductible; they can vary from 2-5%. One way to reduce potential financial strains from hail damage is for property owners is to purchase a "buy-back deductible," which is supplemental coverage.
7) Fix Aging Roof Fasteners: Plug and cover all exposed screw heads, fasteners, raised nail heads and other areas susceptible to leaking.
8) Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy: It is key to read and understand your policy to see what is and isn’t covered, and to know what your coverage you have and what limits you have. Many policies have amendments or an addendum located at the end of the document which are important to know because they effect time requirements and other important aspects of the policy.
Home Destination offers Twin City homeowners tips and guidance to care for their homes and real estate seller resources on how how to keep a home in pristine condition for sale. Call 612-396-7832 and ask Jenna Thuening for guidance.
Jenna Thuening, Home Destination, http://www.homedestination.com, 612-396-7832, [email protected]
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