Filing a roof insurance claim can be stressful, especially if you’re dealing with the aftermath of a storm or other unexpected damage. Many homeowners make common mistakes that can delay their claim or reduce their payout, making the process even more challenging.
Don’t let this happen to you. Read on to discover the top five mistakes homeowners make during the roof insurance claims process and how to avoid them.
At Werner Roofing, we’re here to help you every step of the way and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Proper documentation is one of the major keys to a successful roof insurance claim. Insurance adjusters need clear evidence of the damage to process the claim accurately, and many homeowners don’t photograph or videotape the damage thoroughly or keep records of the incident that caused it.
To set yourself up for success, take multiple photos and videos from various angles as soon as you notice the damage. Note the date and time of the event and any changes to your home’s exterior, such as leaks or water damage. Be sure to keep any receipts from immediate, temporary repairs you have to make and keep reports and estimates from contractors.
Another frequent mistake homeowners make is filing an insurance claim for a roof that’s too old to be covered by insurance. Many policies have age restrictions on roof coverage, especially for roofs over 20 years old. Insurance companies can assess how much wear and tear a roof has gone through and deny your claim if it’s nearing the end of its expected lifespan.
We always recommend checking for any age limitations in your policy before filing a claim. If you think your roof is nearing the end of its life, Werner Roofing can help assess its condition and recommend the best course of action.
Don’t hire a contractor who is unfamiliar with the insurance process. This can lead to miscommunication and potential issues with the claim. An experienced roofing contractor can accurately asses the damage, provide adequate documentation, and help you file a legitimate claim.
Always hire a reputable, licensed contractor with experience working with insurance companies. If you don’t have a go-to contractor, ask your neighbors for references or call and vet them yourself. Our roofing professionals help homeowners all across West Michigan navigate insurance claims so you can get the payout you deserve.
Many homeowners file claims without fully understanding what their insurance policy actually covers. It’s important to note that some policies only cover actual cash value (ACV) rather than replacement cost value (RCV), which can significantly impact the payout amount. Plus, many policies exclude coverage for damage caused by pests or neglect.
To avoid frustration and surprises, review your policy carefully and pay close attention to roof coverage details, deductibles, and exclusions before filing a claim. If something needs to be clarified, ask your insurance provider for an explanation.
Some homeowners ask for a full roof replacement when only partial repairs are necessary. It’s possible this doesn’t align with the designated insurance coverage, leading to delays or disputes with the insurance company. Unless the damage is extremely widespread, most insurance companies will be hesitant to approve a full replacement.
Before requesting a complete replacement, have a professional roofing contractor assess the damage to determine if a repair or partial replacement is the best option. Our team can provide a thorough inspection so you can understand what’s necessary.
Navigating the roofing insurance claims process can be tricky, but avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure you receive the correct payout. Werner Roofing is always here to assist you with every step of the process, from inspections to repairs.
If you’re experiencing roof damage, contact Werner Roofing for a free inspection today. We’ll confidently guide you through the insurance process.
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