When Storm Clouds Gather: Your Guide to Chimney Repair Insurance Claims in Plymouth County

Plymouth County homeowners know all too well the challenges that New England’s unpredictable weather can bring. From the heavy snowfalls of winter to the intense storms of summer, residents often face the aftermath of severe weather. Living in Plymouth, MA, means experiencing the full force of New England’s unpredictable weather. Plymouth County, MA is in a high risk hurricane zone. 44 hurricanes have been recorded in the Plymouth County, MA since 1930. When severe weather strikes your chimney, understanding your insurance coverage options can mean the difference between a manageable repair bill and a financial disaster.

Understanding What Your Insurance Actually Covers

Homeowners insurance typically covers chimney repairs if the damage is caused by a covered peril. Covered perils usually include unexpected and sudden events such as lightning strikes, fires and storm damage. The key phrase here is “sudden and unexpected.” The good news is, damage that occurs as a result of a sudden, unexpected incident will usually be covered. The not-so-good news is that any damage resulting from normal wear and tear is typically never covered.

For Plymouth County residents, this distinction becomes particularly important given the region’s harsh weather patterns. In Norfolk County and Plymouth County, MA, the harsh freeze-thaw cycles of winter are the primary adversary of chimney masonry. While the gradual deterioration from these cycles isn’t covered, sudden damage from a severe storm that causes immediate structural problems would likely qualify for coverage.

Common Covered Scenarios in Plymouth County

Several weather-related events commonly affect chimneys in Plymouth County and are typically covered by homeowners insurance:

• Lightning Strikes: The chimney (especially the chimney crown) is often the highest point of your house, and many chimneys are capped with a metal mesh of some kind. These can attract lightning, which damages the chimney.
• Storm Damage: If a tree falls on your chimney during a storm, repairing the damage is usually covered.
• Wind Damage with Impact: Wind damage alone may not be covered unless it leads to a tree falling on the chimney.
• Water Damage from Storms: If the leak stems from damage caused by a bad storm or some other outside force, insurance plans will usually help cover the repairs.

What’s Not Covered: The Fine Print

Understanding exclusions is just as important as knowing what’s covered. It’s important to note that standard homeowners insurance does not cover chimney damage resulting from neglect or normal wear and tear. Chimneys that are old, poorly maintained, or in need of upgrades or improvements before damage occurs are generally not covered by insurance policies.

Some insurance providers bundle hurricane or tornado policies separately, so damage to your chimney from these types of perils might not be covered under your standard homeowners insurance policy. Flood damage also typically requires a dedicated flood insurance policy.

The Claims Process: Your Step-by-Step Guide

When storm damage occurs, acting quickly and systematically is crucial:

1. Document Everything: Note and photograph all damage and losses. This will assist in settling claims.
2. Secure Your Property: Protect and secure damaged property to the greatest extent possible to prevent further damage and salvage what you can.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company: If your home is damaged during a hurricane, notify your insurance company or agent as soon as possible.
4. Get Professional Documentation: It’s beneficial to have a chimney professional conduct an inspection and provide documented evidence of the damage when filing your claim.

The Importance of Professional Inspections

Having a qualified chimney professional assess and document damage is essential for a successful insurance claim. Local experts who understand Plymouth County’s specific weather challenges can provide the detailed documentation insurance companies require. One of our CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps will do a comprehensive inspection, then write a full report containing all the details you’ll need to assist in filing a claim. The chimney condition report provided to you at the end of your inspection appointment will also include high-resolution images of the damage to aid in your case.

Companies like Above and Beyond Chimney Service understand these local challenges intimately. Having served Norfolk and Plymouth Counties for years, we understand the impact of coastal moisture on chimney brickwork and the specific creosote buildup patterns resulting from the types of wood commonly burned in this region. This localized knowledge allows us to personalize our cleaning and maintenance techniques for optimal effectiveness in your area.

Preventive Measures: Your Best Insurance Policy

While insurance can help with sudden damage, prevention remains your best strategy. Insurance companies place the responsibility on the homeowner to have the chimney cleaned and inspected on a regular basis and to arrange in a timely manner for needed repair work. Regular maintenance not only prevents problems but also strengthens your position when filing legitimate claims.

You should schedule chimney tuckpointing every 10 to 15 years, depending on your chimney’s condition and local weather. In harsh climates like Norfolk and Plymouth County, more frequent checks may be wise. Professional Chimney Repairs in Plymouth County, MA can identify potential issues before they become major problems that could complicate insurance claims.

Working with Your Insurance Company

Success with insurance claims often depends on clear communication and thorough documentation. Back-up your claim with written estimates. One of the biggest obstacles you might face when filing an insurance claim for chimney damage is an accusation from the insurer that you are guilty of neglecting chimney maintenance, and thus are complacent in the damages. You can protect yourself from such accusations by regularly cleaning and maintaining the chimney so that insurance providers have no grounds to attempt to deny your claim.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your claim is denied or you receive a settlement offer that seems inadequate, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. If hiring a public adjuster to assist with the claims process, be sure they are licensed with the Division of Insurance. Additionally, working with experienced local chimney professionals who understand both the technical aspects of chimney repair and the insurance claims process can be invaluable.

Above and Beyond Chimney Service exemplifies this approach. As a family owned and operated company, we have over 25 years of industry experience and are founded on strong internal values and uncompromising integrity – which means that with Above & Beyond Chimney Service, you can expect honest, ethical business practices and actions, no matter what. From our level of professionalism and cleanliness to our perfectionism, skill and dedication to education – we believe you’ll find that your experience with us goes far above and beyond your expectations!

Plymouth County’s challenging weather conditions make chimney maintenance and proper insurance coverage essential for homeowners. By understanding your policy, maintaining detailed records, and working with qualified professionals, you can navigate the insurance claims process successfully when storm damage strikes. Remember, preparation and prevention are your best allies, but when the unexpected happens, knowing your rights and options ensures you’ll weather the storm.