After a storm in Philadelphia, it is likely that your roof will appear fine; however, there could be unseen damage that may result in costly repairs. If you do not identify these less apparent indicators, you are at risk for leaks, mold, etc.
Let’s go through some of the less obvious indicators and how being proactive will help safeguard your investment as a landlord.
Why Subtle Roof Damage Isn’t Always Obvious?
Hidden roof damage is difficult to find because the shingles often look fine, but usually the failure beneath them is the main reason for the leaks. Wind may cause the waterproof underlayment to fail or the sheathing to loosen without damaging the surface materials.
Hail will break the matting in a shingle but will not create an obvious hole. This allows water to enter between the layers, gradually degrading insulation, wood framing, and interior finishes before there is a stain on the ceiling.
The result is that repairs that are supposed to be minor become very expensive reconstructions. Therefore, it’s important for landlords to be proactive about roof maintenance to maximize rental income and tenant satisfaction.
Subtle Warning Signs of Roof Damage (Exterior Damage, Interior Damage)
Early detection plays a role in repairing roof damage to avoid incurring more costs. This means looking deeper, not just taking a quick glance, at specific areas inside and outside your property.
Exterior Damage
Start outside first. Gutters are one place to look for black “sand” (asphalt granules) that indicates your shingles have thinned down from weathering. Look at all the metal flashings around chimneys, skylights, and vents for slight bends, separations in seams, etc.
The underside of eaves/soffit areas and the top of eave/fascia board should be checked for dents, stains indicating moisture, peeling paint, etc. Lastly, check the roof penetrations for evidence of failing seals, i.e., a crack in the rubber boot around a plumbing vent lets water into the house.
Interior Damage
Inside your property also matters. Check in your attic for small water marks on top of the decked area or rafters around vents or chimneys. Look to see if you can see daylight shining through some points.
On the lower levels of your home, be aware of any new, single areas of mold/mildew growing on your ceiling, or higher than normal on your wall away from plumbing fixtures.
Be aware of any bubbles in paint or peeling of wallpaper that have no obvious cause (usually indicates that water is leaking into your wall space).
How Can Property Managers Help Evaluate and Document Damage?
The role of a property manager is to turn this stress into a structured process. For example, Bay Property Management Group Philadelphia can coordinate with roof inspectors since they are proactive in maintaining the property.
With a professional property manager, you can have a system that catches these damages before they escalate into more expensive ones. Here are more ways property managers can help:
1. Conducting a Systematic Initial Inspection
After a storm, we do a preliminary assessment that includes a comprehensive checklist for signs of damage on the inside and outside of your home. We are doing this very intentionally and with a lot of detail, so we don’t miss anything and can determine if there is anything significant enough to warrant the services of a specialty contractor.
2. Professional Photo & Video Documentation
We take detailed photographs and video recordings of all possible storm-related issues. This includes the overall view as a reference point and closer views of specific damage, such as granules missing from shingles or damaged flashing.
These images and videos provide visual documentation that is critical in providing irrefutable evidence to both you and your insurance adjuster as to the condition of your roof after the storm.
3. Coordinating with Certified Roofing Contractors
To obtain an informed, expert view of a property’s condition, we arrange for a detailed assessment by a reputable and competent roofing professional who is certified in that area.
Our staff will provide the roofing inspector access to the roof, provide them with details of our initial review, and ensure the entire area of the home where there are concerns is inspected.
The final report generated by the inspector will include the technical details required to evaluate the extent of repair requirements (minor wear vs. storm-related) and all other repair needs.
4. Compiling a Detailed Report for You
You will be given an overall report which includes our opinions, the contractor’s findings, and photographs of all damage. The report will clearly describe the damage, outline what existed prior to the storm versus what was damaged by the storm, and provide recommendations for repairs to address your priorities.
5. Assisting with the Insurance Claims Process
We will assist in the claims process. By providing all of the necessary documentation organized as well as a detailed report and contractor’s estimate, we will create a clear and concise argument for coverage that is supported by evidence.
We will also assist with communication and requests for additional information from the insurance carrier as needed and/or provide assistance with expediting the claims process to reach a reasonable and fair resolution.
Conclusion
Protect your rental property in Philadelphia from expensive storm damage by recognizing early warning signs. Take advantage of an added layer of protection for your Philadelphia rental when you work with a proactive property management company.
Such a proactive approach will provide you with expert evaluation, documentation, and repair, thus protecting your property’s value as well as your peace of mind for years to come. Be on the lookout for these signs of storm damage; it is essential to take action now to protect your investment.
