Ice dams can cause serious roof leaks, water damage, and structural issues— leaving property owners with expensive repairs. Understanding your coverage and documenting your damage properly is key to securing a fair payout.
At FairVantage, we help homeowners and business owners navigate the claims process to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.
What Does Insurance Cover?
Many homeowners' and commercial property insurance policies cover damage caused by ice dams, including:
✅ Roof Damage – Ice dams can loosen shingles, cause water intrusion, and lead to structural roof damage.
✅ Ceiling & Wall Damage – Water leaks from ice dams can stain, weaken, or collapse ceilings and drywall.
✅ Insulation Damage – Saturated attic insulation can lose effectiveness, leading to energy loss and mold growth.
✅ Flooring & Interior Water Damage – Leaking water can ruin hardwood floors, carpets, and personal belongings.
✅ Gutter & Fascia Damage – The weight of ice dams can cause gutters to detach, bend, or break, leading to further damage.
✅ Mold & Mildew Growth – If ice dam-related water damage leads to mold growth, some policies provide limited coverage for remediation.
Common Exclusions & Limitations
🚫 Gradual Damage Exclusion – If the insurer determines the ice dam formed due to poor insulation or long-term buildup, they may deny the claim.
🚫 Preventable Damage Denial – Claims may be denied if the insurance company believes homeowners neglected maintenance or failed to clear excessive snow.
🚫 Mold Remediation Caps – Some policies limit coverage for mold growth resulting from ice dam damage.
🚫 Cosmetic Damage Exclusions – If ice dams cause shingle buckling but don’t lead to leaks, insurers may classify it as cosmetic and deny coverage.
Steps to Filing an Ice Dam Damage Claim
1️⃣ Document the Damage – Take clear photos and videos of ice dam buildup, roof leaks, ceiling stains, and any affected property.
2️⃣ Prevent Further Damage – Safely remove excess snow and use temporary solutions like roof rakes or heated cables to prevent worsening damage.
3️⃣ File Your Insurance Claim Quickly – Delays can lead to denial, so report the damage as soon as possible.
4️⃣ Request a Professional Inspection – Some insurance adjusters underestimate the extent of water damage. A FairVantage expert ensures all affected areas are documented.
5️⃣ Get Repair Estimates – Obtain estimates from licensed roofing and water damage specialists to compare against your insurer’s assessment.
6️⃣ Review the Settlement Offer – If your insurance company undervalues the damage or limits your payout, you have the right to dispute it.
How FairVantage Can Help
At FairVantage, we:
✔️ Ensure thorough documentation of all structural and interior damage.
✔️ Review your policy to maximize coverage for roof, water, and mold damage.
✔️ Negotiate with insurance adjusters to secure a fair and accurate settlement.
✔️ Assist in disputes, appraisals, and mediation if your claim is denied or underpaid.
