Is keeping a roof over your head draining your bank account in more ways than one? Roofing damage can cost anywhere from $200-$300 for minor repairs and up to thousands of dollars for major repairs.
Hail damage? Tree limbs? Wind damage? These common causes of roof damage can have you checking your homeowner’s insurance policy to see exactly what is covered.
Are you getting ready to make a roofing damage insurance claim? Have you checked your roof for hidden damage after a weather event?
Dealing with roofing damage can be a pain, but isn’t that why you have homeowner’s insurance? This is why we’re sharing some tips on filing a roof damage insurance claim to get the money you deserve.
Roof insurance claims are often the result of wind and hail damage (the most common claims insurance companies handle). The damage is likely to cost more than your deductible so filing a claim makes sense. Here’s how to do it.
You want to cross your Ts and dot your Is when it comes to filing an insurance claim. Follow these tips for a seamless roof damage insurance claim process.
1. Assess and Document the Damage Right Away
Did a tree fall on your home and damage your roof? Was there a storm? Whatever the damage, before covering it or doing a temporary repair, see how much damage there is and take as many pictures as you can.
If necessary, cover it with a tarp to prevent further damage to the rest of your home.
2. Contact Insurance Company ASAP
Put a call into your insurance agent. Give them as much information as you can about what caused the damage and the extent of the damage you’ve observed.
Get confirmation that the damage is covered by your policy.
3. File Your Claim Promptly
The insurance company will provide you with the paperwork or a link on their website to file your claim.
Completing the form gets the ball rolling on your claim.
4. Keep Receipts
Hold on to any receipts for expenses incurred when securing the roof from further damage.
Keep receipts from a hotel stay if your home was uninhabitable. Some policies cover that.
5. Quickly Set Up a Meeting With the Insurance Adjuster
The insurance company will send an insurance adjuster to assess the damage and take pictures.
They will work closely with the roofing company and the insurance company to determine the extent of the damage and the cost to repair it. Repairs can then begin.
Additional Advice
Some additional things to keep in mind in the event of roof damage:
- Always look for hidden damage after a storm.
- Beware of scammers after a major storm.
- Use a reputable roofing company.
- Know what your policy covers.
Do You Suspect Roof Damage?
Now that you know how to file a roof damage insurance claim, you can be confident about starting the process. Did you find this information helpful? Check out our other blog articles. We offer advice on keeping the exterior of your home looking its best to boost value.