How To File Roof Damage Insurance Claim

Dealing with roof damage can be quite a daunting task, especially after a storm rages through your area. The process of filing a claim with your insurance company can feel like navigating through an unnerving storm of paperwork and technical jargon. But worry not, with over 30 years of expertise, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has been a beacon of transparent advice to homeowners grappling with roof damage and insurance claims. In this guide, we break down the steps you should take to file a roof damage insurance claim, aiming to make the process as smooth as sailing through calm waters.

Step 1: Assess and Document the Visible Damage

The maiden step in filing a roof damage insurance claim is ensuring you have a substantial claim. This doesn't guarantee claim approval but helps in determining if it’s worthwhile to initiate the process.

Wind Damage:

• Look for missing, creased, or sliding shingles while inspecting your property.

Hail Damage:

• Check for collateral damage on ground-level objects to deduce if your roof was impacted.
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• Inspect for dents in downspouts, dings on your garage door, holes in window screens, and other visible signs of damage on painted wood or shutters.
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Documenting the damage is crucial. Capture clear photos and jot down notes about the damage from a safe vantage point on the ground.

Step 2: Review Your Insurance Policy

Delve into your insurance policy to ascertain the coverage for roof damage. Most homeowner insurance policies cover damage caused by hail, wind, or fallen trees from storms.

Insurance Policy Types:

• Actual Cash Value (ACV) Policy: This policy provides a payout for the depreciated value of your roof.
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• Replacement Cost Value (RCV) Policy: This policy covers the cost to replace your roof with a brand-new version.
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Understanding your policy type is vital as it directly impacts the payout you’ll receive.

Step 3: Initiate the Claim Process

Contact your insurance company to kick-start the claim process. Relay all relevant information regarding the damage. Your insurance company may dispatch an adjuster or advise you to find a roofing contractor for an inspection.

Tip:

• Have a trusted roofing contractor ready for professional advice and guidance.

Step 4: Schedule a Storm Damage Roof Inspection

Both your insurance adjuster and roofing contractor should conduct thorough inspections.

Inspection Process:

• Marking areas with visible damage using chalk for easy identification.
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• Capturing photographs of all marked areas and any collateral damage.
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• Documenting findings for submission to the insurance company.
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Having your roofing contractor present during the adjuster inspection ensures a fair assessment of the damage.

Step 5: Obtain a Quote for the Scope of Work

After claim approval, you’ll receive a payout based on your policy type. Obtain a quote from your roofing contractor delineating the scope of work needed to restore your roof.

Supplementing Your Claim:

• If the initial payout is inadequate, supplement your claim to cover additional costs, ensuring a quality repair or replacement.

Finding a Reputable Roofing Contractor

The roofing contractor you hire plays a pivotal role in the insurance claim process. A reputable contractor not only provides an accurate assessment and quote but also acts as a valuable ally in liaising with the insurance company to ensure a fair settlement.

Key Considerations:

• Ensure your contractor is licensed and has a solid track record.
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• Be wary of contractors insisting on large upfront payments.
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• Avoid falling for roof repair scams that proliferate after large storms.

Conclusion

The journey of filing a roof damage insurance claim might seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance and a reputable roofing contractor by your side, it can be a smooth process. The key is to stay informed, document the damage meticulously, and choose a trustworthy contractor to navigate through the storm of insurance claims. This is why The Metal Roofers have insurance adjuster experienced experts on staff ready to help you fight for your claim.

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