Steps to Get Your Roof Repair Covered by Insurance
Commercial Roof Repair
Posted on November 27, 2019 by Anderson Industrial Roofing
Sometimes it can be very difficult to get an insurance company to pay a claim on a roof replacement. Many homeowners have been through the ordeal of a damaged roof and a reluctant insurance company. Your best friend when dealing with this problem is an experienced, professional roofing company.
Understand Your Policy
First of all, have some knowledge of your homeowner’s insurance policy such as:
- Do you have replacement coverage or repair coverage?
- What is your deductible?
- Will your policy cover your roof with the same quality materials you currently have?
These are good things to know BEFORE any problem arises. Be aware that most insurance policies cover roof damage caused by fire, vandalism and “acts of God,” such as hail and wind.
Inspect Your Roof Yourself
It is a good idea to look at your roof, and take pictures about once a year, especially once your roof is five years old. If you notice something that needs repair, have it done quickly. An insurance company will use any old damage as an excuse to deny a claim. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to prevent leaks and subsequent damage, so immediate attention is important. Once your roof is more than ten years old, a professional inspection with report would come in handy in the event of storm damage.
If your neighborhood has just suffered a severe storm, quickly inspect your roof for any harm. If you believe there is damage, call a professional roofer. Do not wait.
Damaged Roof? Report It!
Report your roof damage as quickly as possible. Some insurance policies require a claim within 30, 60 or 90 days, depending on the type of loss. The insurance company will send an adjuster out to your home to inspect the roof. If you have had a professional roofer inspect your roof prior to the insurance company, you will have the advantage of the roofing report. Many roofing companies will offer to have someone there at your home when the inspector/adjuster comes to inspect. Some insurance companies are fine with this, some may be annoyed…but your roofer is there for you, not the insurance company. A professional roofer can point out any problems areas he noticed if the inspector misses them.
Since the adjuster works for the insurance company, not for you, it is common for them to find reasons not to pay. They may blame age, previous installation, improper venting, current materials on the roof, homeowner maintenance or claim it is simply cosmetic damage. Denied claims are where a good roofing company will go to work for you, not the insurance company.
Trust Anderson Industrial Roofing to Have Your Back
So, the next time a damaging storm hits, look at your roof, get in touch with Anderson Industrial Roofing and then your insurance company. Let us be your advocate to get your roof repaired or replaced. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.