Falling Leaves do not Invoke Wind/Hail Deductible

January 27, 2016

Insured has a roof with a deep valley that in the fall collected enough leaves to causing pooling water in the valley. The water then seeped under the singles causing ceiling damage inside the home. The insurance company is suggesting that it is subject to the wind/hail deductible as leaves were blown onto the roof and that the wind also contributed to the seepage. Of course the homeowner prefers the policy deductible be applied.

Illinois Subscriber

The wind/hail deductible is intended for windstorms, not incidental winds that occur on a general basis. Leaves could have also fallen directly onto the roof; leaves rarely take a straight vertical decline even on still days. The carrier is stretching; the normal deductible should be applied.