If you own a home, then you know how important homeowners insurance is for protecting you and your household. Our Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney sweeps often get asked by our customers if their chimney system is covered under their homeowners insurance policy – and what that coverage entails.
This question is one of the harder ones to answer since coverage can vary so much from one policy to the next. That said, the team at Wolfman Fireplace & Chimney is happy to offer the knowledge we do have in regards to chimney repair coverage – as well as what you can do to make sure you’re chimney repair needs are covered.
Factors That Affect Insurance Coverage
If your home has a fireplace or wood-burning stove, then your chimney is essential in ensuring the effectiveness of that system and the safety of your home and family. Your chimney helps to channel smoke and harmful gases out of your home, keeping the air cleaner and safer.
However, like any other part of your home, your chimney can suffer wear and tear over time – which can then lead to the need for costly repairs. All this tends to leave homeowners wondering if insurance would cover the cost of these expenses. The answer depends on several factors, including the cause of the damage, the type of insurance policy you have, and the extent of the damage.
✓ Cause of the Damage
The cause of the damage to your chimney can have a significant impact on whether or not your insurance will cover the repairs. If the damage was caused by a covered event, such as a fire, lightning, or a windstorm, your insurance policy is likely to cover the cost of repairs.
However, if the damage was caused by neglect or lack of maintenance, your insurance policy is less likely to shell out the dough. This is why we recommend scheduling regular inspections and cleanings with Wolfman Chimney & Fireplace every year.
✓ Type of Insurance Policy
The type of insurance policy you have can also affect whether or not your chimney repairs are covered. If you have a standard homeowners insurance policy, your chimney may be covered if the damage was caused by a covered event such as a severe weather storm. However, if you have a basic policy that only covers specific types of events or losses, your chimney repairs may not be covered.
We always recommend that you reach out to your insurance agent to get a thorough understanding of what exactly your specific policy will cover and what limitations it may have.
✓ Extent of the Damage
The extent of the damage to your chimney can also affect whether or not your insurance will cover the repairs. If the damage is minor, your insurance company may not cover the repairs or may only cover a portion of the cost. However, if the damage is significant and poses a threat to the structural integrity of your home, your insurance company is more likely to cover the cost of repairs.
This is also where the amount of your deductible and the cost of the repairs come into play. Having a thorough understanding of your policy’s coverage and deductible will help you make an informed decision when determining the best route to take when it comes to any repairs your chimney may need.
Insurance & Chimney Repairs FAQs
Q: What should I do if my chimney is damaged?
A: If your chimney is damaged, you should call the certified chimney sweeps at Wolfman Chimney & Fireplace to assess the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. We can also help walk you through the process of contacting your insurance company.
Q: Will my insurance company pay for chimney repairs if the damage was caused by a fire?
A: Typically, if the damage was caused by a covered peril, such as a fire, your insurance company is likely to cover the cost of repairs.
Q: Can I prevent chimney damage?
A: Yes, the best way to prevent chimney damage is by having your chimney inspected and swept (cleaned) regularly, using your fireplace or stove correctly, and keeping your chimney free of debris.
Q: What should I do if my insurance company denies my claim for chimney repairs?
A: If your insurance company denies your claim for chimney repairs, you should review your policy to verify that the damage is not excluded. If you believe that your claim was denied unfairly, you can appeal the decision or seek legal advice.
Contact Us for Chimney Repairs
If you find yourself needing chimney repairs, contact the crew here at Wolfman Chimney & Fireplace to assess the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. Our knowledgeable and expertly trained chimney sweeps will be there every step of the way to get your chimney repaired correctly and in tip-top shape, so you and your family can get back to enjoying your fireplace with ease.
Call 830-620-9130 or schedule online now to get started.
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