Ice & Winter Storm Claims: What To Do

Usually yes — sudden water intrusion caused by an ice dam is typically covered, though removal of the ice dam itself may not be. We identify which parts of the loss qualify.

The key difference lies in the cause and timing of the damage. A covered ice dam claim involves sudden damage directly resulting from a specific storm event, which insurance policies typically protect against. In contrast, "wear and tear" refers to gradual deterioration over time, such as long-term roof neglect, which insurance carriers usually exclude from coverage. At Cleveland Claims, we understand that carriers sometimes deny ice dam claims by attributing the damage to wear and tear instead of the storm. To support your claim, we carefully document the storm event and the resulting roof damage, providing clear evidence that the loss was sudden and covered under your policy. This thorough approach increases the likelihood of a successful claim resolution for our clients.

We inspect for structural stress, roof deflection, and related interior damage (like ceiling staining or collapse) and tie it to a specific storm date and snowfall event.

Take clear photos of the damage and the conditions that caused it (ice along the eaves, snow on the roof). Keep the heat on throughout the home. Arrange safe temporary mitigation, like tarping or professional ice dam steaming, and do NOT chip at ice yourself, since that can damage shingles. Keep every receipt, and contact us before you accept any settlement offer, because winter storm claims are often undervalued on the first estimate.

Usually not the removal itself, but the water damage an ice dam causes inside your home typically is. Professional ice dam steaming to prevent further damage may be reimbursable as mitigation, so keep the receipt.

It depends. Many policies exclude freeze damage if the home was left unheated or wasn't reasonably maintained while vacant. Utility bills and thermostat records showing the heat was on can make the difference.

Often, yes, but don't wait. Many policies require prompt notice. Tie the damage to a specific storm date with photos and weather reports, since adjusters inspecting in spring won't see the snow and ice.