Upon buying a home for which the inspection showed signs of roof deterioration, the new homeowner immediately had the roof replaced. Several months later, after a heavy rain, water damage was noticed on the ceiling and wall. Further inspection revealed additional damage to silk drapery and a side chair that also had a silk covering.
The homeowner contacted his agent who requested the company have an adjuster meet with the policyholder and inspect the damage. After inspection by the adjuster, a contractor and the homeowner, it was determined that the damage was the result of the roofer improperly installing the flashing around the brick chimney. There was no damage found from any other source.
Determining what is and isn’t covered requires some review. The house was insured on an HO-3 special perils coverage form, a commonly used policy. Under this policy, the structure itself is insured for all perils subject to policy exclusions, but the contents are covered for the named perils listed in the policy.
It is not the purpose of the homeowner policy to respond to damage that should rightly be the responsibility of the craftsman. In this case, the homeowner had to contact the roofer to seek restitution. When the homeowner and roofer entered into a contract to install the new roof, there was an implied, and perhaps written, warranty that the work would be done in a skillful and professional manner.
Subject to underwriting review you may be able to add a special perils contents endorsement to your policy, which in this case would have covered the damaged contents. Give us a call if you have any questions.
Knowing the cause of the loss, the agent searched for coverage and found the following:
- Damage to the interior ceiling and wallpaper were covered since these items were part of the structure, which was insured for all perils subject to exclusions.
- The contents damage was not covered because contents coverage is subject to the named perils listed in the policy, and none applied. For coverage to apply for rain damage to contents, there must first be damage to the structure’s exterior.
- The roof flashing repair was not covered because faulty workmanship and repair are both excluded causes of loss.
Reichley Insurance Agency is committed to excellence. We pride ourselves on offering our clients reliable coverage and great service. As an independent Ohio insurance agency, we can provide you with all types of insurance coverage from the top carriers in the country. Our team of trusted agents will work with you to find a policy that meets your needs – and falls within your budget.
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The information in this article is meant as a guideline only. There is nothing in this publication that alters the coverage or interpretation of any specific policy. Because some statements are generalizations, and because different companies’ policies contain slight differences, please refer to your specific policy. Call our office before making any judgments or decisions concerning your particular situation and coverage that may or may not apply.
