A pool screen enclosure not only adds aesthetic appeal to your outdoor space but also offers protection from debris, insects, and the elements. However, like any other part of your property, accidents and unexpected events can occur. The question that often arises is whether pool screen enclosures are covered by insurance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the intricacies of insurance coverage for pool screen enclosures, helping you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Homeowners insurance is designed to provide financial protection in the event of damage or loss to your property, its contents, and other structures on your land. These structures typically include detached garages, sheds, and even fences. However, coverage for additional structures like pool screen enclosures can vary depending on your policy and the circumstances of the damage.
The coverage for a pool screen enclosure depends on the type of homeowners insurance you have and the specific events that lead to the damage. There are two primary types of coverage that could potentially apply:
If your homeowner’s insurance policy covers "dwelling" or "other structures," your pool screen enclosure might fall under this category. Dwelling coverage typically includes structures that are attached to your home or other structures on your property. However, whether your pool screen enclosure is considered "attached" can vary based on factors like how it's constructed and how it's connected to your home.
If your policy includes coverage for "other structures," your pool screen enclosure might be covered under this provision. Other structures coverage typically applies to structures that are not physically attached to your home, like sheds and detached garages.
The specific events that lead to damage can also influence whether your pool screen enclosure is covered by insurance. Here are some common scenarios and how they might be covered:
Damage caused by severe weather conditions like storms, hail, or wind might be covered by your homeowners insurance policy. However, insurance companies might have specific guidelines for determining the extent of coverage based on the cause of the damage.
If accidental damage occurs due to an event like a fallen tree or a vehicle collision, your homeowners’ insurance might cover the repairs or replacement of the pool screen enclosure. Again, policy specifics and deductible amounts play a role in the coverage you receive.
Homeowners’ insurance typically does not cover damage that occurs due to regular wear and tear. If your pool screen enclosure deteriorates over time without a specific event causing the damage, insurance might not cover the repairs.
If damage occurs as a result of negligence or lack of maintenance, such as allowing trees to grow into the enclosure, insurance might not cover the repairs.
If your pool screen enclosure sustains damage that you believe is covered by your homeowners’ insurance, follow these steps to file a claim:
Inform your insurance company about the damage as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and provide you with the necessary forms.
Take clear photos of the damage to your pool screen enclosure. Documenting the extent of the damage is crucial for the claims process.
Your insurance company may require documentation such as the original construction cost of the enclosure, receipts for any improvements, and estimates for repairs or replacement.
An adjuster from your insurance company will likely visit your property to assess the damage and determine the coverage amount.
Carefully review your homeowners’ insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is excluded. If you have questions, don't hesitate to contact your insurance provider for clarification.
Be aware of coverage limits and deductibles that might apply to other structures. Your coverage might be subject to certain limitations or a deductible that you'll need to pay before the insurance coverage kicks in.
If your pool screen enclosure is an upgraded or high-value structure, you might need to consider adding it as scheduled personal property to your policy for more comprehensive coverage.
Taking good care of your pool screen enclosure through regular maintenance can prevent potential issues and reduce the likelihood of denied claims due to negligence.
Whether your pool screen enclosure is covered by insurance depends on several factors, including your policy's coverage provisions, the cause of the damage, and the type of structure it is classified as. It's essential to understand your homeowners’ insurance policy and its terms to make informed decisions about how to protect your property adequately. Remember to review your policy, document any damage, and communicate with your insurance provider promptly if you believe you have a valid claim. By staying informed and prepared, you can navigate the complexities of insurance coverage for your pool screen enclosure with confidence. Looking to get a screen enclosure added to your home? Give us a call today at Lafferty Aluminum and Screening to get your project off the ground! (321)652-1078
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Lafferty did an excellent job on our unconventional screening project. The office staff was responsive and friendly. From consultation to installation, all of our questions and concerns were addressed.
"Lafferty did an excellent job installing our pool screens. The are prompt and keep you well informed concerning the job! I would definitely hire Lafferty Screens again!!"
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"Friendly service, professional attitude of employee, polite and they cleaned up as they worked. We had our pool enclosed redone after hurricane damage and now it looks great. Thanks"
"Lafferty did a fantastic job from start to finish on the patio pavers and aluminum screening. They completed the project on time, and perhaps even a little ahead of schedule!"
"I couldn't be happier with the work performed by Lafferty. They replaced my original screen house in February in a professional and timely manner. I would highly recommend them for your screen enclosure needs."
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