Spring and summer storms can strike with little warning, pulling shingles from your roof and sending debris through neighborhoods that can cause everything from minor issues to significant damage. Your first instinct will be to call your insurance company, but you may want to consider getting an estimate first.
Roof damage, repairs and the insurance process can be complicated. Depending on the damage to your roof and the coverage and deductible you have on your homeowner’s policy, you may want to choose replacement rather than repair, or you may not want to file a claim. Understanding your options is the key to making the best decision.
How your roofing insurance policy works
Your insurance carrier will consider both the damage and the age of your roof when determining your settlement. Typically, a roof that is more than 10 years old will get you a depreciated value on repair or replacement of a damaged roof. The ultimate reimbursement you receive will be less your deductible.
Frequently, insurance companies will hold back your payment until specific paperwork is received or until repair work is completed. They do this to ensure that work is done completely and according to specifications and that you have paid your deductible.
Why you should get an estimate
A damage inspection and estimate from a professional roofing company may be your best assurance of getting a thorough and fair repair along with maximum and timely compensation from your insurance carrier. Many insurance companies are quite strict in the protocol you must follow to report, record and claim damage. Choose a professional roofer who has worked with insurance companies and understands the process.
Getting an objective estimate ahead of time also benefits you. Your insurance company will send an inspector to assess the damage and verify your claim, so your objective estimate provides you information for comparison and questioning.
Finally, depending on what repairs will be needed to get your roof back in good working order, you may be able to pass on the claim and simply work with your roofer to take care of it. While filing a claim on your homeowner’s insurance will not cause your premium to go up, the process can be a hassle, so if the repair is less than your deductible you may prefer to forego the process and just get the work done.
If you experience storm damage to your roof, don’t assume your insurance company will provide you the best options. Contact Dan Faith Construction for expert guidance on your roof damage estimate, your insurance claim and your roof repair or replacement. Click here for more information on roof replacement and storm damage repairs, as well as our restoration and exterior services.