How Can NYC Condo / Coop Owners Stay Ahead of Severe Winter Storms?

As Winter approaches, many New York area residents who live in condos and coops may have a false sense of security. They may not realize that during harsh weather, the potential for property damage and loss is greater. Also, while it is true that their common fees, or cooperative share places greater responsibility on their management group to maintain the shared infrastructure that residents are not without obligations themselves. As storm damage insurance adjusters, United Public Adjusters & Appraisers has drawn up lists for condo and coop dwellers alike to review. This way they can be optimally prepared for the season ahead.

Condo Residents: You may have shared walls, but you own your unit and are partially responsible for its interior and exterior maintenance. Inspect your unit’s exterior and report any missing shingles, damaged gutter, leaking water spouts, cracked sidewalks, buckled siding, etc. so it can be repaired or replaced now. Inside your unit, wrap all exposed plumbing pipes. Under your kitchen and bathroom sinks, and if you have a traditional hot water heater, buy an inexpensive insulation kit and wrap it. Caulk around windows on the outside to prevent air leaks. The theory here is that if air can get into your home, so can precipitation and cause extension damage before you know it.

Coop Residents: In addition to wrapping all exposed interior plumbing as noted above, be sure to review your cooperative corporation’s bylaws as well as your homeowners’ insurance policy. If you have concerns as to who is responsible for what type of property damage, consider hiring impartial and professional storm damage insurance adjusters such as the team at United Public Adjusters & Appraisers.

At United Public Adjusters, we are far more than storm damage insurance adjusters. We strive to provide our clients with peace of mind and the highest settlement allowable. Our staff can assess and provide damage/loss estimates, offer guidance in preparing a claim submission, negotiate with your insurance company, and so much more. To face this winter confident about your property and valuables coverage, contact us now to learn more about how we can assist you at 800-718-5677.