Commercial Roof Damage Claims Attorneys

A roof is one of the most critical components of any commercial property. When it’s compromised by storms, fire, or water intrusion, the integrity of the entire facility and the safety of everyone inside can be at risk. For businesses, a damaged roof often leads not just to costly repairs but to interrupted operations, safety concerns, and loss of inventory or equipment.

At Vishio Watkins & Forry, PLLC, we understand what’s at stake. Because all of our attorneys are former insurance defense lawyers, we know how insurers evaluate, delay, and deny claims. We use that insight to protect commercial property owners and help them recover the compensation their policies promise.

What Roof Damage Does Commercial Property Insurance Cover?

Commercial property insurance is designed to protect against sudden and accidental losses — not normal wear and tear or gradual deterioration. For roof damage, most policies define coverage based on specific perils such as wind, hail, fire, or impact.

According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), wind uplift, hail impact, and moisture intrusion are among the leading causes of commercial roof system failure.

Common Causes of Commercial Roof Damage

• Wind and Hail Damage – High winds can lift membranes or tear flashing, while hail can puncture or bruise roofing materials, shortening the roof’s lifespan. Learn more about hail damage.
• Impact Damage – Falling trees or debris during storms can cause serious structural harm.
• Fire and Lightning – Both direct damage and water used in suppression efforts can destabilize a roof.
• Snow and Ice – Excess weight and ice dams can cause sagging, leaks, or collapse.
• Vandalism and Criminal Acts – Most policies treat intentional damage as a covered risk.

Why Commercial Roof Damage Claims Become Contentious

Despite policy language, roof damage claims are among the most disputed in the commercial property insurance industry. Replacement costs can be significant, and insurers often take positions designed to reduce payouts.

Some of the most common tactics we see include:

• Arguing damage was due to “wear and tear” rather than a covered storm event.
• Authorizing only partial repairs instead of full roof replacement.
• Applying excessive depreciation to cut payouts.
• Repeatedly requesting documents to delay resolution.
• Ignoring related losses like water intrusion that damages electrical systems or inventory.

For property owners, these tactics create real pressure. You’re trying to maintain operations, protect tenants, control costs, and stay afloat. Meanwhile, your insurer is slowing down the process or minimizing the amount they owe.