SERVPRO Busts Five Storm Damage Myths for Homeowners

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: SERVPRO gives details on the myths floating around about storm damage that usually leads to further losses for homeowners. SERVPRO shares the truth about storm damage in this article.

Debunking the myths about storm damage

A storm forecast is a sign to gear up and prepare for the worst-case scenarios. After the storm is past, there are damages that every homeowner needs to review and mend. But there are a lot of myths surrounding storm damage that cause homeowners immense loss simply due to misinformation. SERVPRO debunks certain myths around storm damage that can help homeowners make the right decisions at the right time when it comes to storm damage restoration.

Myth #1: No evident sign of damage means there is no damage

Fact: Once the storm is over, a visual survey of the property is the next step homeowners need to take. A roof that has not collapsed or isn’t showing visible signs of damage does not indicate it is undamaged. A minor crack, small puncture, or dent can grow bigger and cause considerable water damage if not addressed as soon as possible. The hidden signs of roof damage can be:

1. Shingle bruises

A loose roof shingle is easily spotted but a shingle bruise can be seen upon closer inspection only. Bruises are small, dark spots on the shingles where an impact of hail causes the granules to come loose.

1. Nicks & dents in soft metals

Hail can damage the roof by causing nicks and dents in the soft metals. These dents are indicators that the roof must be closely examined for shingle bruises as well.

1. Loose granules

Roofs generally lose granules over time. After a storm, roof damage is indicated by a marked increase in the number of granules that may go undetected as they will be found on the ground or in the gutters.

A professional roofing expert can detect these unnoticeable damages to the roof and save the roof from further disintegration. 

Myth #2: All storm damage is covered by roofing warranties

Fact: There is a common misconception that a new roofing system means all storm-related damage is covered in the warranty. In fact, most roofing companies and manufacturers exclude storm and hail damage from roof warranties. Even with an updated coverage, a roofing warranty will be redundant if the storm damage is undocumented and left unchecked.

Myth #3: Not filing a claim won’t raise the premium

Fact: After a storm, an insurer is likely to raise the home insurance rates whether a claim is filed or not. A property in a storm-prone area and a history of filed claims increase the likelihood of the premium going up. So a timely claim is a wise move even in case of minor damages as it allows a prompt restoration of the house. 

Myth #4: Minimal damage means there’s no need to file a claim

Fact: Even minor damage to a roof is a strong ground for insurance claims. If this minor damage is left unaddressed, there are possibilities of major roof damage which may not be covered by insurance due to negligence. 

Myth #5 Insurance company will cancel a policy if the homeowner files a claim 

Fact: If a homeowner is paying premiums on time, insurance companies cannot cancel a policy as per law. 

A professional storm damage restoration team such as SERVPRO of Westlake/Lakeway has the experience and the expertise to assess the storm damage accurately, take precise actions to correct the damage, and even advise the homeowner in matters of insurance.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lakeway / Westlake is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lakeway, Westlake, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For storm damage restoration services in Lakeway, Tx, call SERVPRO of Lakeway / Westlake today at (512) 261-4790.