Roof damage can be overwhelming, whether caused by a storm, falling tree, or regular wear and tear. One of the most common questions homeowners face is whether to call their insurance company or a roofing company first. Navigating this process efficiently can save time, money, and stress.
This article will guide you through the best practices for dealing with roof damage, help you understand the roles of your roofing contractor and insurance provider, and ensure you’re making informed decisions.
TLDR – Quick Guide:
Assess the Damage: Before contacting anyone, safely inspect the roof damage to understand the extent.
Call Your Roofing Company First: A roofing contractor can provide a thorough inspection and estimate the damage for your insurance claim.
Insurance Claims Process: The roofing company’s report helps you when contacting your insurance provider. This ensures accurate claim filing.
Emergency Repairs: If immediate repairs are necessary to prevent further damage, call a roofing company ASAP. Your insurance may reimburse the cost later.
Avoid Delays: Failing to contact a roofer before insurance may slow down the claims process, as insurers often request an expert’s assessment.
Step 1: Assess the Roof Damage
Before calling anyone, the first step is to assess the roof damage—safely. If the damage is visible from the ground, take pictures of the affected areas. This documentation will be valuable when you begin the claims process or discuss repairs with a roofing contractor. If the damage is severe, stay clear of potentially hazardous areas.
For less obvious issues like leaks or missing shingles, you may not immediately notice the damage. That’s where a roofing company becomes crucial.
Why Should You Inspect First?
- Insurance Adjusters Need Proof: Insurance companies require proof of damage before approving claims.
- Prevent Further Issues: Quick inspection allows you to identify any urgent repairs, such as leaks, that could worsen if not addressed.
Accurate Cost Estimates: Knowing the scope of the damage helps you anticipate repair costs.
Step 2: Contact a Roofing Company First
It might seem logical to call your insurance company first, but in most cases, contacting a roofing company first is the smarter move. Here’s why:
Roofing Companies Offer Professional Inspections
A reputable roofing contractor will provide a thorough inspection of your roof. Their professional assessment will identify both obvious and hidden damages, which may be missed by untrained eyes. This detailed report will support your insurance claim by providing the evidence needed to prove the extent of the damage.
Most roofing companies are well-versed in working with insurance claims and know exactly what information insurers require. This ensures that your claim will be accurate and comprehensive.
Roofing Contractors Can Prioritize Urgent Repairs
If your roof has sustained damage that could lead to further issues, such as leaks or exposed underlayment, a roofing company can quickly assess the damage and recommend emergency repairs. Even if these repairs are temporary, they can prevent more costly problems down the line.
Many insurance policies will cover the cost of these temporary repairs, making it financially feasible to secure your home while the full claim is being processed.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
After receiving a professional assessment from a roofing contractor, your next step is to contact your insurance company. Use the report provided by your roofing company to file a claim. This way, you can submit an accurate description of the damage, along with cost estimates for the necessary repairs or replacement.
What to Expect When Filing an Insurance Claim
Your insurance company will likely assign an adjuster to review your claim. Having a roofing contractor’s report can help this process go smoother because it provides solid documentation of the damage.
Key details to include in your claim:
- Extent of the damage: Based on the roofing company’s report.
- Repair estimates: The cost provided by the contractor.
- Photos or videos of damage: For visual proof.
Your insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the roof in person. When this happens, it’s often beneficial to have your roofing contractor present. They can discuss their findings directly with the adjuster, helping to ensure a fair settlement.
Step 4: Schedule Repairs After the Claim Is Approved
Once your insurance claim is approved, it’s time to move forward with repairs. Most reputable roofing companies will work with you to schedule repairs as soon as possible to prevent further issues.
Many roofing contractors are accustomed to handling jobs that involve insurance claims, so they can help coordinate timelines and payments with your insurance company.
Step 5: Emergency Situations and Immediate Repairs
In situations where immediate repairs are necessary to prevent additional damage (like after a major storm), contacting a roofing company as soon as possible is critical. Roofs with large holes, missing shingles, or significant leaks need to be addressed immediately.
In these cases, many insurance policies will cover the cost of emergency repairs, even if the claim hasn’t been fully processed yet. Always keep records of any repair work done to ensure you can submit them to your insurance company later for reimbursement.
Why Failing to Contact a Roofing Company First Can Cause Delays
Many homeowners make the mistake of contacting their insurance company first, assuming that they will manage every part of the process. However, this can lead to delays:
- Lack of Detailed Inspection: Insurance adjusters may not be roofing specialists, and their inspections can miss key details. This could result in a lower payout.
- Slower Response Times: Insurance companies often request a professional roofing report, and waiting for an adjuster to arrive before involving a roofer can waste valuable time.
- Disputes Over Damage Costs: Without a roofing contractor’s estimate, insurers may provide lower-than-necessary payouts, leaving you to cover the difference.
By involving a roofing company first, you streamline the process and ensure that your claim includes all necessary information, minimizing delays.
Key Takeaways
- Start by contacting a roofing company after assessing roof damage. They will provide a professional inspection and help support your insurance claim with detailed information.
- Insurance companies require documentation, and a roofing contractor’s report provides the necessary proof of damage to ensure your claim is processed smoothly.
- Emergency repairs should be prioritized if your roof is in immediate danger of causing further damage to your home. Most insurance policies will reimburse these costs.
- Delays can occur if you contact your insurance first without consulting a roofer, as insurers may request a roofing inspection anyway.
FAQs
It’s best to call a roofing company first. They can provide a thorough inspection and report, which will be needed when filing your insurance claim. This ensures your claim is accurate and comprehensive.
Without a roofing contractor’s inspection, your insurance claim might lack crucial details, which could result in a lower payout or denial of the claim. A professional inspection ensures all damages are documented.
Most insurance policies will cover the cost of emergency repairs if they are necessary to prevent further damage to your home. Always keep receipts and records to submit with your claim.
Most insurance companies consider a roof too old for coverage when it reaches around 20 to 25 years, depending on the material. However, policies vary, so it’s important to check your specific insurance provider’s guidelines regarding roof age and coverage limits.
The roofer receives the depreciation check because it is often part of the insurance claim process, where the insurer initially pays for repairs minus depreciation. Once the work is completed, the roofer can collect the full amount, including the depreciated value, to cover the cost of materials and labor.
By following these steps, you can efficiently manage roof damage and avoid unnecessary delays in repairs or insurance claims. Always consult with a roofing company first to ensure a smooth, stress-free process.