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Why Did I Get a Letter From My Insurance Company About My Dirty Roof?
If your roof is dirty, you could get a letter from your insurance carrier denying coverage because a black-streaked roof can lower value.
Why Did I Get a Letter From My Insurance Company About My Dirty Roof?
If your roof is dirty, you could get a letter from your insurance carrier denying coverage. That’s because a black-streaked roof can result in a lower property value and curb appeal, decrease the lifespan of the roof and home, and increase further damage. Understandably, your insurance company does not want to be held liable for something the homeowner could have prevented with regular maintenance and cleaning.
This growing trend is not uncommon. Here’s the situation: your insurance agent randomly chooses you to drive by your home for a quick visual inspection. They’re looking for unkempt roofing and siding, with stains that have originated from roof algae, mold and mildew. If they don’t like what they see, you could receive a letter in the mail warning that your coverage may be cancelled or even ineligible for renewal if you don’t do something about the roof. Those dark streaks can contain tar from asphalt shingles as well as algae, mold, lichen, and moss. If left to fester, they can eat away at the roofing materials and cause long-term problems like leaking.
Many times, the insurance company will want all issues addressed before they will provide coverage. Have you found yourself in this situation? Trust Clearview Washing to help, New Jersey’s trusted exterior maintenance company.
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How to Prevent This From Happening to You
No one knows if and when they will receive a letter in the mail from their insurance carrier. But why take the risk? Here are the things that can trigger a drive-by inspection:
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- Inquiring about a new policy
- Renewing your annual policy
- Switching your coverage amounts
- Applying for a home equity line of credit
If you receive a letter, don’t panic and assume you must replace the shingles or purchase a whole new roof. Not the case. You just need a thorough power washing by a professional to get your home clean again. Don’t shell out between $8,000 and $12,000 for a roof replacement when you can spend just $300 – $900 for a cleaning. Of course, the final price tag to you will vary by roof material, square footage and roof pitch.
Don’t attempt this job as a DIY. Not only is it dangerous, putting your life at risk -- you could do extensive damage to your shingles. Any water that gets underneath the roofing material will cause troublesome and costly leaks. And if the right equipment and chemicals aren’t used, only the surface layer will be removed, not all layers. If you fail to kill off the algae and sterilize the areas, it will grow back.
Contact Clearview Washing
It’s best just to keep your roof and siding clean so as to avoid any such letter from your insurance carrier. We can help. Just call us today for a free estimate and to book your appointment at 732-462-1187.
