Leaking Skylight Covered By Insurance

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Post on Nov 10, 2024

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Leaking Skylight: Covered by Insurance? A Guide to Filing a Claim

A leaking skylight can be a major headache, causing water damage to your home and potentially leading to mold growth. If you're facing this issue, you might be wondering: is a leaking skylight covered by insurance? The answer isn't always straightforward, but this guide will help you understand the factors involved and navigate the claims process.

What Your Insurance Policy Says

The first step is to carefully review your homeowner's insurance policy. Look for sections related to:

• Perils Covered: Your policy will list specific events covered, such as windstorms, hail, and falling objects. If your skylight leak was caused by a covered peril, you're more likely to have a claim.
• Exclusions: Similarly, your policy will list events that are not covered, such as wear and tear, negligence, or lack of maintenance. If the leak is due to a pre-existing condition or lack of proper maintenance, your claim might be denied.

Common Causes of Skylight Leaks and Coverage

Here are some common reasons for a skylight leak and whether they're usually covered by insurance:

Covered:

• Windstorms: Strong winds can damage the skylight itself or its flashing, leading to leaks.
• Hail: Large hail can crack or break the skylight, allowing water to enter.
• Falling Objects: Branches, debris, or even a tree falling on your roof can damage the skylight.
• Manufacturing Defect: If the skylight is faulty from the start, it may be covered under the manufacturer's warranty.

Potentially Covered (depending on policy):

• Wear and Tear: While typically excluded, some policies may cover leaks due to gradual wear and tear if it's sudden and unexpected.
• Neglect: If the leak is due to a lack of regular maintenance, your claim might be partially or fully denied.

Unlikely to Be Covered:

• Improper Installation: If the skylight was poorly installed, this is usually considered a pre-existing condition and not covered.

Filing a Claim

If you believe your skylight leak is covered by insurance, here are the steps to take:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the leak immediately and follow their procedures for filing a claim.
2. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the leak, damaged areas, and any related repairs.
3. Keep Records: Save all receipts for repairs and any other related expenses.
4. Be Cooperative: Work closely with the insurance adjuster to ensure a smooth claims process.

Tips for Preventing Skylight Leaks

While you can't always prevent natural disasters, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of leaks:

• Regular Inspections: Check your skylight regularly for cracks, damage, and leaks.
• Maintenance: Clean and inspect the flashing around the skylight to ensure it's properly sealed.
• Proper Installation: If you're installing a new skylight, ensure it's done by a qualified professional.

In Conclusion

Determining whether a leaking skylight is covered by insurance depends on your policy and the cause of the leak. By understanding your policy, documenting the damage, and taking preventive measures, you can navigate the claims process effectively and minimize potential problems down the line.