Sometimes, standing up for someone isn’t just about a roof—it’s about protecting memories

The following is a Case Study for Colorado Springs Homeowners: Insurance Coverage for Rotted Roof Decking

Life doesn’t always make things easy, especially for Mrs. Close, a 93-year-old widow living alone in the home she shared with her late husband.

The Scene

Mrs. Close is 93 years old, living alone in the home she and her late husband built together. Her husband had always been her rock—the one who handled contractors, repairs, and all the complicated things that come with owning a home. Since his passing, she’s done her best to keep things as he left them, including leaving up the Christmas tree they last decorated together. She didn’t have the heart to take it down.

After a severe hailstorm battered her roof, Mrs. Close filed an insurance claim, hoping to take care of the repairs quickly. But when the adjuster told her part of the decking wouldn’t be covered because it wasn’t considered “storm-related,” she was left feeling confused and overwhelmed. That repair alone would cost her over $10,000—money her husband had carefully saved to ensure her comfort and security.

Not knowing where to turn, Mrs. Close reached out to me.

The Challenge

Mrs. Close’s situation presented unique challenges:

1. Her insurance company was pushing back on covering the decking, calling it a pre-existing issue rather than storm damage.
2. She was on a fixed income, and the out-of-pocket cost was a significant financial strain.
3. Mrs. Close needed someone who could advocate for her without adding stress to her already heavy burden.

My Step-by-Step Approach (Solution)

Step-by-Step Approach:

1. Thorough Inspection:
   I conducted a detailed inspection of the roof and decking, gathering photographic evidence and detailed reports to build her case.
2. Evidence-Based Advocacy:
   Using the evidence I gathered, I submitted a formal appeal to the insurance company, demonstrating how the hailstorm had directly contributed to the damage.
3. Persistent Follow-Up:
   The insurance company initially pushed back, but I refused to accept their denial. After multiple rounds of discussions, providing expert opinions, and consistent follow-ups, they agreed to revisit the claim.
4. Full Coverage Secured:
   I didn’t stop until they approved the decking replacement, ensuring that Mrs. Close wouldn’t have to dip into her savings for repairs.
5. Efficient Roof Replacement:
   Once the claim was resolved, the Petrali team moved quickly to replace her roof and decking, restoring her home to its former safety and comfort.

The Outcome

In the end, Mrs. Close’s roof was repaired with no additional out-of-pocket costs. The $10,000 decking replacement, initially denied by the insurance company, was fully covered. When the job was done, she told me how grateful she was—not just for the roof, but for the peace of mind that her husband’s nest egg was still intact.

My Perspective:
For Mrs. Close, this wasn’t just about fixing a roof—it was about preserving the life she and her husband built together. Being able to step in, fight for her, and deliver a solution that honored her husband’s legacy was deeply rewarding.

“If you’re struggling with an insurance claim or facing mounting costs you can’t shoulder alone, let me fight for you like I did for Mrs. Close. Contact me today today, and let’s secure your peace of mind.”

“My 90 year old mother needed her roof replaced due to hail damage. Gerald was excellent in explaining to her what was needed. He also was very patient in working with a variety of family members who wanted to assist her with the process. He explained the process to all of us!!! He expedited the schedule to avoid the expected rain and the crew members worked very hard against the clock to get it done. He contacted the insurance company for us and connected us to an excellent gutter replacement company. To satisfy all of us was quite an achievement!”

Linda Parker,
Homeowners Daughter