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Anti-Concurrent Causation Clause

Policy language that allows your insurance company to deny a claim if any excluded cause contributed to the loss — even when a covered event like hail or wind was also involved.

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What an Anti-Concurrent Causation (ACC) Clause Is

An anti-concurrent causation (ACC) clause is policy language that allows your insurance company to deny a claim if an excluded cause — such as wear and tear or poor maintenance — contributed to the loss, even when a covered cause like hail or wind was also involved.

In simple terms: if both covered and non-covered causes are present, the carrier may deny the entire claim.

How an ACC Clause Works in Practice

Without an ACC clause, insurance companies typically cover the storm-related portion of damage and apply depreciation.

With an ACC clause, the carrier may argue:

  • An excluded condition contributed to the damage
  • Therefore, the entire claim is excluded

This makes ACC clauses especially impactful on older roofs where some wear is expected.

How to Identify an ACC Clause in Your Policy

ACC clauses are usually found in the exclusions section and often include language like:

  • “We do not insure for loss caused directly or indirectly…”
  • “Regardless of any other cause or event that contributes…”
  • “Concurrently or in any sequence…”

These phrases signal that an ACC clause may apply.

ACC Clauses and Colorado Law

Colorado recognizes the efficient proximate cause doctrine, which may allow coverage if a covered event was the dominant cause of the loss.

However:

  • This is not automatic
  • Outcomes depend on facts and policy language
  • Courts have upheld ACC clauses in certain cases

ACC disputes are often legal, not just technical.

ACC Clauses on Older Colorado Roofs

Older roofs often have some level of wear, which carriers may use to support ACC denials.

This makes documentation critical:

  • Clear storm damage evidence
  • Before-and-after condition records
  • Separation of wear vs. storm impact

What to Do If Your Carrier Invokes an ACC Clause

  • Request a written denial
  • Review the exact policy language
  • Get a professional inspection focused on causation
  • Determine if the issue is coverage or value
  • Consider appraisal if applicable
  • Consult an attorney for complex disputes

How ACC Clauses Differ From Standard Exclusions

A standard exclusion removes specific types of damage from coverage.

An ACC clause goes further:

  • It uses any excluded factor to eliminate the entire claim
  • Even if a covered cause is the primary driver

This makes ACC clauses far more impactful than typical exclusions.

Common ACC Clause Questions

Do all policies include an ACC clause?

No — but many do. You must review your specific policy.

Can an ACC clause deny any hail claim on an older roof?

Not automatically. Strong causation evidence can challenge this position.

Can I prevent an ACC denial?

Pre-storm documentation helps establish clear before-and-after conditions.

Can I remove an ACC clause?

No — but you may be able to choose a policy without one when purchasing coverage.

How Claim Advocacy Helps With ACC Clause Denials

  • Causation documentation — separating storm damage from wear
  • Policy review — analyzing applicability of ACC language
  • Denial strategy — choosing reinspection, appraisal, or escalation
  • Legal referral — when attorney involvement is needed

Anti-concurrent causation clauses are one of the most aggressive tools used to deny roof claims — but they are not always the final word. A detailed review of your policy and damage documentation can often reveal opportunities to challenge the denial.

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📧 gerald@winik.io

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