Should I File an Insurance Claim?
I purchased my house about a year ago in upstate New York, and recently we experienced a blizzard that brought heavy snowfall and strong winds. Now that things are thawing out, I’ve noticed that my chimney appears to be significantly damaged, and this was not present just 3-4 weeks ago.
To be fair, the chimney is an older brick structure coated in concrete. While it had some minor cosmetic issues—like a little peeling concrete—there was nothing concerning before the storm.
Now, there’s a small section where both bricks and concrete are missing. I’m not a professional, so I’m unsure how this impacts the chimney’s structural integrity.
Here are my questions:
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Am I justified in filing a claim for an old chimney that wasn’t in perfect condition prior to the storm?
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If I do file a claim, will the insurance company cover the full or partial cost of necessary repairs?
This is my first year as a homeowner, and it’s also my first experience with home insurance. I’m worried that submitting a claim might lead to significantly higher renewal costs or even affect my ability to get insurance in the future.
Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
It’s understandable to be concerned about potential damage to your chimney, especially as a new homeowner. Here’s a breakdown of your questions:
Making a Claim: Generally, you can file a claim for damages if they resulted from a covered peril, which often includes storm-related damage. Since the damage seems to have occurred during a blizzard, you may have grounds to make a claim. However, insurance policies can vary, so it’s important to review your specific policy to understand what’s covered.
Coverage of Repair Costs: If you make a claim and it’s approved, the insurance company will assess the damage. Since your chimney was not in perfect condition before the storm, they may only cover the costs associated with the new damage. It’s possible they could view the existing condition as pre-existing wear and tear, which might affect how much they reimburse you.
Impact on Insurance Rates: Filing a claim could potentially impact your insurance premiums. While some companies may raise your rates after a claim, this isn’t always the case, especially if it’s a first-time claim and the damage was due to a natural disaster. Some insurers might even have a policy of not increasing rates for claims related to weather events, but this varies by provider.
Next Steps: It would be a good idea to document the damage with photos and check your policy details. After that, you can reach out to your insurance company to discuss your situation and see if they recommend filing a claim. It might also be wise to consult with a professional, like a chimney specialist or contractor, to get an assessment of the damage, both for your own understanding and for the insurance claim process.
In summary, you do have the option to make a claim, but it’s essential to understand your policy’s specifics as they relate to pre-existing conditions and storm damage. Best of luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice if needed!