Homeowners across Ocean, Monmouth, Atlantic, and Burlington County are being caught off guard. Insurance policies are being canceled over something most people overlook — a dirty roof.
Roofs are inspected by insurance companies more often than most people realize. Drive-by assessments and aerial photos are now used routinely. Black streaks, mold, and algae growth are being flagged during these reviews.
Once that growth is documented, a letter is typically sent to the homeowner. A deadline is given. The roof must be cleaned or maintained, or the policy will not be renewed.
This situation is being reported by homeowners all over the Jersey Shore and surrounding areas. It is not limited to older homes, either. Even roofs installed five or six years ago are being targeted.
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Why Are Insurance Companies So Concerned About Algae?
The black streaks seen on shingles are caused by a bacteria called Gloeocapsa magma. It thrives in humid, coastal climates — exactly what is found here in central New Jersey.
Over time, shingle granules are eaten away by this growth. That damage shortens the life of a roof significantly. Insurance providers view it as a liability. A weakened roof is more likely to fail during storms. Claims are then filed, and payouts are made.
So from their perspective, the risk is reduced by requiring maintenance. It is a bottom-line decision for them.
How Coastal Weather Makes It Worse
Moisture from the beach is carried inland for most of the year. Homes in Toms River, Brick, Point Pleasant, Manahawkin, and Long Beach Island are especially affected.
That salty, damp air feeds algae and mold growth on roofing materials faster than in drier regions.
This is the after photo of an express roof cleaning service Pisces Pressure Washing Performed in Waretown, New Jersey
How Is a Roof Properly Cleaned?
A common mistake is made by homeowners who grab a pressure washer from the hardware store. High-pressure water can void a roof warranty and cause serious damage to shingles.
Instead, a method called soft washing is recommended by shingle manufacturers. Low-pressure water is combined with specially formulated cleaning solutions. The algae, mold, and bacteria are killed at the root. The shingles are left intact and undamaged.
This is the method used by Pisces Pressure Washing on every roof cleaning job across our service area – for both residential and commercial jobs. Our technicians are trained to follow manufacturer guidelines on every project.
What Should You Do If You Receive a Letter?
First, the deadline in the letter should be noted carefully. These notices typically allow 30 to 60 days for action.
Next, a professional roof cleaning company should be contacted. The job needs to be done correctly, and proper documentation must be provided afterward. Photos and a receipt are generally requested by the insurance company as proof.
We help homeowners resolve this exact issue. Our team handles the roof cleaning using our soft washing process for your insurer.
Do Not Wait Until the Last Minute
Scheduling for New Jersey roof washing can fill up fast, especially in spring and summer. Once a cancellation notice is received, it is better to act quickly. A lapsed homeowner’s policy creates problems far beyond just the roof.
Protect Your Home and Your Policy
A soft wash roof cleaning is one of the most overlooked maintenance tasks for New Jersey homeowners. Yet it is now being tied directly to insurance eligibility. The good news is that the fix is straightforward and affordable.
Pisces Pressure Washing serves homeowners and business owners throughout Ocean County, Monmouth County, Atlantic County, and Burlington County. Every job is completed by trained technicians using safe, manufacturer-approved soft wash methods.
If a letter has been received from your insurance company — or you just want to stay ahead of the problem — give us a call today. A free quote can be provided quickly, and your policy can be protected before any deadline passes.