This week, a severe Lake Effect Snowstorm hit Western New York, dropping in excess of four feet of snow in a short amount of time. This storm has restricted travel and closed roads, leading to a temporary disruption in the operation of many area businesses. In addition, this sheer amount of snow, combined with the warmer temperatures forecasted for this weekend, has the potential to cause roofs to collapse and for buildings to suffer interior water damage caused by the backup of sudden melting snow. As large commercial buildings often have flat roofs, they are more susceptible to collapse, thereby increasing their chances of suffering additional damage after the storm has passed.

Filing a claim after a roof collapse from heavy snow

It is your responsibility as the policyholder to make sure that the insurance company has all the information and evidence to support the extent of the damage to your business. Depending on the terms of your insurance policy, you may be eligible to file a claim under some or all of the following coverage provisions:

  • Property Damage (Buildings, contents, etc.)
  • Business Interruption and Extra Expense, directly resulting from the property damage
  • Business Interruption, caused by property damage at customers' and/or suppliers' locations.

With a regional office in Springville, New York, our public adjusters are conveniently located to assist business owners with their property damage insurance claims in Buffalo, Orchard Park, West Seneca, Lancaster, Cheektowaga, Hamburg, Depew, Lackawanna, East Aurora and the surrounding areas. Let our public adjusters help with your property damage or business income insurance claim. Having a professional on your side can help to alleviate the burden of dealing directly with your insurance company, and will help you get a full and fair settlement.

For more information on how we can be of assistance, call our Western New York office today at 716.592.3080 or email us at svanuga@aiblc.com.