Now is the Time to Assess Winter Property Damage

After the winter we have endured in Connecticut, spring’s warmer temperatures will be a welcome relief – but they also may lead to property damage as lots of snow and ice begin to melt.

State officials are urging residents to keep watch for indoor leaks caused by ice dams or snow on roofs as they begin to melt, and to start now researching reputable contractors to repair any damages.

We couldn’t agree more that now is the time to begin looking for a qualified company to handle repairs, and to review your insurance policy so you know what you’ll need in order to file a claim. These things are equally important to homeowners and owners of commercial property.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and state Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Jonathan Harris are urging property owners to:

• Inspect their roof visually, by walking around outside and looking in the attic if it’s accessible.
• Look for signs of water or leaks on ceilings and walls and in buildings’ lower levels.
• Make sure the ground is cleared of snow around gutter downspouts.
• Find a reputable and registered roofer if repairs are needed. They may be busy, but working with someone with roof expertise is worth the wait.
• Make sure anyone they consider is registered with the Department of Consumer Protection. Contractors, by law, must print their state registration number on their contracts, business cards, vehicles and all advertising.
• Verify a contractor’s registration online here.
• Make sure anyone hired carries liability insurance and has an insurance certificate to prove it. Also, if a company has employees doing repair work, it should provide evidence of worker’s compensation insurance.
• Avoid contractors who offer to handle any insurance claim or promise there will be no deductible on a claim.
• Get a detailed written contract with all terms, conditions, start date and end date.

“When there’s a problem inside your home, you want it fixed quickly, so do your homework now,” Harris said in a statement.  “Don’t wait until there’s a problem and then react.  Steer clear of any contractors who go door-to-door, call, post notices on bulletin boards or utility poles, or advertise online unless you check them out thoroughly first.  Act now to avoid being scammed or taken advantage.”

If you have any questions, you can contact the Department of Consumer Protection at [email protected] or at 1-800-842-2649. Insurance questions can be directed to the Connecticut Insurance Department at [email protected] or 1-800-203-3447.