Filing a roof damage claim
It is never a good feeling when you get the unfortunate news that you should file an insurance claim for roof damage. Our roof is typically something most homeowners take for granted, so when damage occurs, in most cases it is unexpected. This often leads to frustration, desperation, and uncertainty. However, filing a claim with your insurance often means that your roof will be able to be repaired or replaced without significant out-of-pocket expense by you.
When is it time to file?
It can be confusing to determine when it will be time to file a claim for roof damage as most inspectors will evaluate several different factors. The first key factors that every inspector will evaluate is your roof’s age, if the roof was installed properly the first time, and if there are clear signs of damage inside and/or out. Once they have identified that damage has occurred and can be filed for, some of the common things they will look for include:
- Lifted or raised shingles
- Sunken or missing shingles
- Cracks or damage to a chimney
- Missing screws or fasteners
- Significant and obvious damage
8 steps to take when filing for roof damage
- Have professionals asses the roof damage
The first step is to simply find out what happened and what is wrong. We recommend hiring a professional team, like our experts at Stay Dry Roofing. We know exactly what to look for and can operate safely even on a damaged roof. Most professional roofing contractors will be able to give you a detailed breakdown of what the problems are and suggested fixes for them.
2. Find out what is covered
Every homeowner’s insurance is different and the policy may cover more or less depending on your circumstance. Calling your provider right away or reviewing your paperwork when signing up will help you know what kind of issues are covered and what is not.
3. Document the damage
This step is often done around the same time as the first step. When your professional company comes out to evaluate the roof, a detailed breakdown and photo evidence is often provided because it is required by the insurance company. It is also often a good idea to include pictures of your roof prior to the damage and inform the company of any damage to the interior or your belongings.
4. File your claim with your insurance provider
Once all your documentation is together, you should file your claim to your provider as soon as possible. To be safe, we recommend you file quickly, because some insurance providers require notification of damage within a certain time frame of damage. If you wait too long, they may reject your claim!
5. Contact Stay Dry Roofing
While you can contact any professional roofing contractor, our team at Stay Dry Roofing does whatever we can to make your insurance claim process simple, even working with your insurance provider on your behalf. Once you have your company picked out, they will be able to provide a list of repairs, replacement, materials and time for you and your insurance. This will need to be passed along before the work can begin.
6. Submitting the claim
Finally, once all the paperwork is complete, you will be able to submit your claim and your insurance provider will review it. Don’t forget to include receipts for damage to the interior of the home too, including personal belongings. In some cases, you may need to live elsewhere, and this can potentially be reimbursed as well.
7. Get evaluated by an insurance adjuster
The final step before your roof can begin to get repaired or replaced is to speak with the insurance adjuster. This person will evaluate your roof plus what your contractor quoted to make sure everything matches. It is often a good idea to have your roofing contractor present, as they will be able to explain the roof damage and what needs to be done.
8. Repair the roof damage
Finally! As long as everything goes well with the adjuster, work can begin on repairing the roof damage or replacing the roof entirely. When you choose Stay Dry Roofing for this, we will work hard to respect your home and property, as we understand this is a difficult time for most people.
Speak to a professional roofing contractor today!
Have you had damage to your roof or are unsure if you need repairs or replacement? Stay Dry Roofing in Tampa, FL is the premier location for roofing needs. Our professional team has over 30 years of experience and can provide honest, accurate, and timely evaluations, quotes, and repairs. Our goal is to help you get back to living your life comfortably and we want to make this difficult time as easy as possible. Reach out to us today to begin your evaluation and inspection process!
