Insurance Claims

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.
Re-roofs

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.
Repairs

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

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

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.
Fire Damage

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.
Wind Damage

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.