Indiana Subscriber

There is no requirement in the HO 00 03 that the cause of loss and the resulting effect follow each other within minutes, days, or even months. It is difficult to recognize that a covered cause of loss has occurred unless the physical signs of that cause manifest themselves. So, until the insured noticed the wet patches, he had no idea there was a possible covered loss.

The HO 00 03 excludes losses caused by wear and tear, marring, and deterioration. That is because these are things that will happen over time, and so are uninsurable. However, the policy adds that “any ensuing loss to property described in Coverages A and B not excluded or excepted in this policy is covered.” In other words, had the roof simply worn out, the ensuing loss—water damage to the interior—would be covered because it is not excluded. But in this instance, the roof did not wear out. An event specific as to time and place—the verifiable hailstorm—caused the damage to the roof.

Therefore, both the loss to the roof and the water damage to the ceiling and walls are covered.