The most readily available information about roofing is how to install it, increase its longevity, or how to repair it. But what process do you follow on the administrative side when something goes wrong? We don’t think about this until it’s too late, but it is important to know how roofing insurance claims are handled and what should you do. This article will give a brief step-by-step overview of what to expect during the roofing insurance claim process.
Step 1: Safety First
Your safety is most important. Depending on the damage to your roof, only return to your home when it is safe to do so.
Step 2: Document Everything
Try and collect as much evidence of the damage as possible to ensure that you have proof of what happened. Avoid throwing damaged roofing material and other household items away. This step can be combined with calling in the roofing contractors, (discussed later) as they will be able to point out some important things you may have missed.
Step 3: Involve The Professionals
It may be tempting to handle insurance claims yourself or even attempt to fix your roof yourself, it is not advisable to do so. There are many technicalities when it comes to insurance claims. The insurance companies are aware of these, but most of us are not. It is always best to use reliable professionals to guarantee that you get the best possible claim. Contact a quality roofing company to inspect the damage and enlist the help of a high-quality property loss attorney to help handle the insurance claim.
It is important to contact the insurance company promptly to notify them that you wish to make a claim. The insurance company will investigate the damage to your roof, but having an attorney and roofing company on your side will help avoid any problems within the process. It is important that you make sure that the insurance company representative investigates the full extent of the damages.
Step 4: Don’t Delay
A damaged roof can happen for a variety of reasons. There are two main reasons you should not delay your insurance claim. One, the insurance company may have a prompt notice requirement which requires you to notify them as soon as possible after the loss. Two, the sooner you contact them, the sooner they will be able to settle your insurance claim and fix your roof.
You don’t need to have massive damage to your roof to file an insurance claim. If you have any damage to your roof, it is acceptable to contact your insurance provider.
Step 5: Have Representation At The Adjuster Meeting
Many insurance companies will try and confuse property owners with technical roofing terminology. On the other hand, property owners may try to self-diagnose the damage. This might lead to a valid claim becoming invalid. A way to prevent this from happening is to have an expert, (roofing contractor and/or property loss attorney) with you at the adjuster meeting. Insurance companies will often have their own evaluators to try and determine the damage. It is important that the reports by your contractor and the insurance company, line up.
Step 6: Final Report
Once the insurance company and your contractor come to an agreement on the damage, a final report will be compiled that will outline roof repairs and replacements. What is covered by the insurance is largely dependent on which policy you have, but as mentioned earlier, making smart use of qualified professionals can help you achieve the best outcome.
For more information on insurance claims and roof repairs, contact ABC Roofing Corp at (954) 344-4622.
