Insurance Claims

If your roof is damaged by an unpreventable accident or natural disaster, you will need to file an insurance claim. The claim process can seem daunting, but most homeowner’s policies do cover damages to your roof by the wind, fire, severe storms, and “acts of God”. Every policy is different so it’s important to contact your insurance provider for accurate information.

In many cases, your insurance company will cover all or a portion of repair costs or re-roofing costs after a natural disaster or “act of God” or after an unpreventable disaster such as a fire, the wind, or hail storms. Claim inspections and inspection reports are important tools used to assess the damage and estimate the repair costs. It’s important to have them performed by a licensed and experienced contractor who you and your insurance provider trust.

If your roof is extensively damaged by unpreventable causes or a natural disaster, such as a fire, a hurricane or a tornado, your homeowner’s insurance will usually cover re-roofing. Each policy is different, though, so it’s best to contact your insurance provider for the most accurate information.

Re-roofing can be a time-consuming process, so it’s best to contact a trained professional who can help assess and document the damage. In emergency situations, roofing contractors can perform temporary repairs or cover your roof with a wrap or tarp to prevent further damage while you get things sorted out with your insurance company.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do cover roofing repairs, but the amount of coverage varies by roof type, damage type, and the age of your roof. In general, repairs due to damages from disasters such as fire and “acts of God” are usually covered. But claims for damage by the wind, rain and hail are more complicated so it’s best to contact your insurance provider for the most accurate information.

Insurance companies consider the type of and extent of damage as well as the age and type of roofing when calculating your claim. For instance, hail stones may damage a portion of the roof but not the entire roof so repair costs are covered only for that portion. Insurance claims are easier to document if you record maintenance, repairs and any damage with before and after photos.

Claim inspections are a normal part of the insurance process and typically occur as the first step to receiving a claims settlement. Claim inspections are important for the homeowner as well as the insurance agency. The insurance company needs to make sure the damage is accurately documented and described in the claim and the homeowner needs an accurate estimate of repair costs and coverage amounts.

Different insurance companies handle their inspection processes differently, so be sure to contact your insurance provider. Some companies have an inspector visit the property, take photos and get statements, and others prefer to receive an inspection and estimate from a preferred roofing contractor. Either way, the goal is the same: Get an accurate description of the damage and estimate of the repair costs.

Inspection reports are completed by roofing contractors to assess damage to your roof and to estimate repairs. Some insurance companies require homeowners to schedule an inspection from a licensed contractor. Other insurance companies arrange an inspection for homeowners or require them to be performed by specific contractors. Be sure to contact your insurance company for the most accurate information. Most inspection reports are free of cost. They are provided by roofers to support your claim and the contractor hopes to receive the work if the claim is approved. Beware of inspection reports that are disguised as contingency contracts.

You shouldn’t need to sign anything at this point in the process. If you sign a contingency contract, you must award the work to that contractor (or pay a cancellation fee) and the roofing company will act as your agent and receive all insurance payments directly. Some companies that offer contingency contracts are legitimate companies providing excellent services, but others are dishonest scammers that may take the insurance check and disappear.

Fires that cause damage, but do not completely destroy a home are called “partial loss” claims. Loss claims are important even if the fire did not reach your home but damaged the building or land next door. Damages from heat, smoke or fire retardant are not always easily apparent and damage can be hidden so it’s important to have a thorough inspection performed.

In the event of fire damage, your roof should be inspected by a licensed professional. The inspector will look for damage to the shingles or tiles from burning embers as well as damage to the roof deck from water and other fire retardants. It is also important to check the attic for any leaks caused by damage to underlayment or the deck from excessive heat.

If your roof is damaged by high winds, most homeowner’s insurance policies do cover it, but each policy is different so it’s important to contact your insurance company for specific details. Most companies consider the age, type and condition of your roof before the storm when determining the amount of your claim so it’s important to keep a record of all roof maintenance and repairs that includes before and after photos. If your roof was newer and in good repair, you will receive a higher claim than if your roof was older and needed to be replaced.

If your roof is damaged by an unpreventable incident such as fire or hail or a natural disaster or other “act of God” you will need to file an insurance claim to help pay for repair or re-roofing costs. Filing an insurance claim can seem daunting, but your insurance provider and roofing contractor will help you through the process.

Claim inspection and inspection reports are an important part of the process for homeowners and insurance providers. It’s vital that inspections and reports are completed by a professional so they accurately document the extent of the damage and estimate the costs of repair. Every insurance policy is different, so be sure to contact your provider for the most accurate information before signing any repair contracts.