It can be expensive to replace a roof that has been damaged by wind or hail, which is why many homeowners will rely on their insurance company to cover all or part of the expense. With all of the severe weather that Texas can receive in a single year, there’s a good chance that you will have to file a claim on your homeowner’s insurance because of storm damage. In many cases, this process can be complicated and even confusing.
Here are some common questions people ask about roofing insurance claims.
Are there any signs of roof damage I should look for after a fire or storm?
The damage to your roof will vary based on the severity of the storm or fire. It can be something simple (such as missing shingles), or it can be more severe (such as entire sections that have caved in. A roofing contractor will do a thorough assessment so he or she can identify any areas with surface damage as well as any damage that may not be as noticeable. If you think your roof has been damaged by a storm or fire, you should contact a licensed professional instead of trying to make that determination yourself.
How should I document any roof damage after a storm or fire?
Insurance companies may ask for photos or videos of the damage, which you can send via email or through an app offered by your insurance provider. You should also take careful notes to avoid any confusion later on. Be sure to document the damage during the daylight hours if it’s possible, and have all the necessary documentation available when you contact the insurance company. You also don’t want to put yourself or anyone else in danger while you’re documenting the damage.
What do insurance adjusters look for when they inspect roof damage?
To get your insurance company to cover roof damage, the adjuster will have to identify any signs of damage that have been caused by a fire, storm, or some other natural disaster that’s listed on your policy. The inspector may look for other signs of damage (such as curling or cracked shingles, exposed underlayment, or missing roof components).
Will my roofing contractor be there during the adjuster’s inspection?
Once the roofing contractor has finished inspecting your roof, you can contact the insurance company to schedule a time for the adjuster to do an inspection. Your contractor can meet with this person to verify the cause of any damage and to coordinate any details about the repair process.
How much will it cost to replace my roof?
The cost of your roof replacement will depend on a number of factors. Some of them will include the following:
- The extent of the damage.
- The type of work that needs to be done.
- How much of the expenses your insurance company will cover.
The roofing contractor will give you an estimate that’s based on all of the costs related to materials and labor.
Will my insurance premiums increase after I file a claim?
Your homeowner’s insurance premiums will most likely be the same after you file a claim, but there are some claims (such as heavy storm damage) that will cause your rates to go up. Filing multiple claims in a single year can also cause your premiums to go up, but this type of rate increase isn’t related to you filing a claim for a roof replacement.
Can I get more than one roof repair estimate?
You can get multiple roof repair estimates, but it’s not always necessary. You just need to make sure the contractor will charge the same or less than what the insurance company estimated. It will only pay for the actual repairs based on the job’s fair or average market price, regardless of how much the contractor charges.
Can I challenge a claim if it has been denied?
There are two ways that you can challenge a claim that has been denied. You can hire a public homeowner’s insurance adjuster to inspect the roof and file a statement. You can also hire an attorney to file a claim or even a lawsuit against the insurance company. Neither option will guarantee that the insurance company will reverse its decision, but it may give you more of an advantage when you appeal.
If your roof has been damaged in a fire or storm and are looking for one of the best roofers in Corpus Christi to help you with an insurance claim, be sure to reach out to Bayfront Roofing.
