As a homeowner, you have many responsibilities regarding the care of your property. You must maintain the home to ensure its value consistently grows and that it is comfortable and safe to live in. Of the many structural components of a house, the roof is one of the most important. It shields the interior from the elements and helps maintain a comfortable environment.
A full roof replacement can be incredibly expensive. Even replacing missing shingles can put a big dent in your savings. Fortunately, homeowners insurance can help cover the cost of a roof replacement or repairs.
What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?
The purpose of homeowners insurance is to protect the property owner against financial losses for covered perils. Without it, unexpected repairs could make homeownership prohibitively expensive, especially when unexpected costs hit. Depending on your policy’s coverage limits, you can get insurance to pay many of these expenses.
Types of Roof Damage Covered
The insurance company does not cover every type of roof replacement or repair. Some common circumstances that homeowners insurance covers include severe weather or storm damage, fire damage, vandalism, mischief, other natural disasters, or sudden and accidental damage.
Storm damage can include wind damage, hail, or falling trees due to windy conditions. Direct fire damage and smoke damage may also be covered. If someone vandalizes your property or destroys it through other mischievous acts, the insurance company may pay for these costs. Lastly, sudden and accidental events can encompass burst water pipes or falling trees.
What is Typically Not Covered?
Insurance does not cover roof replacement due to aging, pest damage, poor maintenance, or improper installation. These issues are considered normal wear and tear or preventable problems, which are typically excluded from homeowners insurance policies.
For example, insurance companies won’t cover the replacement of an aging roof that’s deteriorating naturally. If pests are destroying parts of the roof, insurance will not pay to have your roof replaced. If you fail to maintain the roof or it was improperly installed, most insurance policies won’t cover these costs.
Filing a Roof Damage Claim
If you believe your roof replacement or repair costs are included within your policy, then you must file an insurance claim with your carrier to receive the benefits. Here are the steps involved in filing an insurance claim.
Documenting the Damage
Your insurance agency will require evidence of the damage that you want covered. Before you start the insurance process, take photos and videos of the damage. These images can support your claim for compensation to address the repair needs.
If the roof is damaged during a storm, you should also keep records of weather events in your area. This evidence will ensure the insurance agent understands that a covered event caused the damage.
Contacting Your Insurance Company
Many insurance companies allow policyholders to file claims online. You can also complete a roofing claim by calling your carrier’s claims number or visiting an office in person. To submit a claim, you must provide policy details, describe the damage, schedule a roof inspection so the company can assess the damage, and attach any documents that serve as evidence.
Meeting with the Insurance Adjuster
Your claim will be assigned to an insurance adjuster, who will investigate it and determine the roof coverage amount. When the adjuster arrives for the inspection, provide easy access to your roof so they can assess it closely.
Answer their questions honestly and accurately to avoid potential insurance fraud. Keep records of this meeting and what was discussed in case the claims process is delayed.
How to Negotiate with the Insurance Company
You may need to negotiate with the insurance company to receive replacement or repair coverage. Sometimes, the adjuster’s first offer is low, so here are a few tips to help you get insurance to pay the majority of the costs.
Understand the Roof Insurance Claim Evaluation Process
During an insurance claim, the agency assesses the damage, estimates the repair expenses, and determines coverage. You must understand this process to identify areas where the insurance agent underestimates the cost of repairs.
Disputing a Claim Denial or Low Settlement Offer
Disputes with insurance companies are very common. Policyholders often feel they receive low offers or outright denials that are unfair. If this happens for your roof replacement claim, you can request an additional inspection, provide more evidence of the extent of the damage, or negotiate for a better settlement.
Seek Professional Help
Whether you need a minor roof repair or a total roof replacement, you should seek professional assistance throughout the claims process.
Public adjusters who don’t work for the insurance company can help you get a fair assessment. Restoration contractors can ensure the roof replacement is professionally done and help with repair estimates. Lastly, you may need an attorney if you are dealing with insurance company disputes.
Working With a Restoration Company
Selecting the right roofing company is essential when you need a new roof. You should search for a reputable roofing company with many positive reviews and references. The more expertise they have in handling roof replacement coverage, the more likely you will have a successful claim. Check the licensing of your roofing contractor before hiring them.
Contractor’s Role During the Claims Process
The roofing company can also help with your insurance claim. They will document the damage to the roof, meet with the adjuster, provide an estimate for the replacement cost, and even negotiate on your behalf.
Preventing Future Roof Damage
If you want to avoid paying for a new roof yourself, you can take steps to prevent future roof damage. Here are some home maintenance tips to preserve your roof for as long as possible.
Regular Roof Maintenance
Routine maintenance can be the difference between replacing a roof early and enjoying a roof that lasts decades. Regular roof inspections and cleaning can prevent damage and extend the life of your roof.
Proper Installation and Repairs
Whether you are having a new roof installed or investing in small repairs, always rely on professionals. Proper installation and professional repairs are more likely to extend your roof’s lifetime.
Contact a Reliable Restoration Company Now!
PacWest Restoration is a reputable contractor that specializes in roof repairs and replacements. Our team can handle any roofing project and help you navigate the claims process to obtain the most coverage. Call us today at 503-746-6545 or complete the online form.
