Understanding Insurance Claims: Why Exterior Cladding Inspections Matter
Many homeowners assume their insurance policy will fully protect them when exterior damage occurs. In reality, insurance claims related to exterior cladding and water damage are frequently denied.
Based on years of experience, most denials are not caused by insurer negligence—but by insufficient coverage, improper exterior cladding installation, or long-term maintenance issues. Understanding how exterior systems affect insurance claims is critical to protecting your property.
Exterior & Building Inspections by Met Exteriors
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Why Exterior Damage Insurance Claims Are Often Denied
Insurance policies are designed to cover sudden and accidental damage, not issues that develop gradually over time. Many exterior cladding failures fall into the long-term category.
Common reasons exterior-related claims are denied include:
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Long-term water intrusion behind exterior cladding
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Seepage through walls, parapets, and building envelopes
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Improper flashing, detailing, or transitions
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Lack of routine exterior maintenance
From an insurance standpoint, these conditions are considered preventable, not insurable events.
Insurance Bureau of Canada – Water Damage & Home Insurance
https://www.ibc.ca/insurance-basics/home/water-damage
Flat Roof Homes and Scupper Drainage Issues
Flat roof homes require precise design, expert installation, and effective drainage. One of the most common causes of exterior damage is improper scupper drainage.
When scuppers are:
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Incorrectly sized
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Poorly sloped
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Improperly sealed
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Blocked or poorly maintained
Water can back up and penetrate the building envelope, leading to damage behind exterior cladding and parapet walls—damage insurers often classify as gradual and deny coverage for.
Understanding EIFS Issues in Alberta
https://metexteriors.com/understanding-eifs-issues-in-alberta/
Buying a Flat Roof Home: What Homeowners Should Know
If you are purchasing a flat roof home, it is essential to confirm that both the roof system and exterior cladding were installed by experienced professionals.
A proper exterior inspection should confirm:
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Correct scupper placement and drainage design
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Proper roof slope and waterproofing
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Proper flashing and metal detailing
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Exterior cladding installed to local building codes
Commercial Exterior Inspection Services
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Improper Metal Caps and Water Intrusion
Poorly installed metal caps on parapet walls, chimneys, and exterior transitions are a major source of water intrusion. When metal caps fail, water enters behind the exterior cladding system.
Over time, this can cause:
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Cladding deterioration
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Damage to wall assemblies
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Interior water intrusion
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Freeze-thaw damage in cold climates
National Research Council Canada – Building Envelope Moisture Control
https://nrc.canada.ca/en/research-development/products-services/technical-advisory-services/building-envelope
Why Proper Insurance Coverage Matters
Homeowners should review their insurance policies carefully to understand how exterior cladding and moisture-related damage are treated.
Important steps include:
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Reviewing policies regularly
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Asking about exclusions for seepage and long-term moisture
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Ensuring coverage aligns with the home’s roof type and cladding system
Government of Canada – Home Insurance Basics
https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/insurance/home.html
The Importance of Exterior Cladding Inspections
A professional exterior cladding inspection is essential before buying, building, or renovating a home. Many serious deficiencies are hidden and not visible during a basic walkthrough.
Exterior inspections help identify:
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Improper installation
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Drainage and waterproofing failures
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Code compliance issues
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Early signs of moisture intrusion
Brick Work and Block Work Services
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Protecting Your Exterior Investment
To reduce the risk of denied insurance claims and unexpected repair costs:
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Understand your insurance policy
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Ensure proper coverage for exterior systems
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Invest in professional exterior inspections
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Choose reputable, experienced contractors