Time is of the essence when it comes to filing a roof damage insurance claim. While many homeowners feel a sense of security knowing that their homeowner’s insurance will help alleviate the cost of a roof repair or replacement, the process can be confusing. Here are some helpful tips to successfully filing a roof insurance claim. If you have any questions or are in need of roof repairs, call Homewerx in Charleston, SC today!
Look For Damages Immediately After A Storm
The sooner you take action toward repairing a damaged roof, the better. Some insurance policies have rules about how long you can wait after your roof sustains damage to report it and still be covered. The most important thing when it comes to filing an insurance claim is timing. even the shortest delay could cost you your coverage.
Even if your roof doesn’t show any noticeable damage, it is still a good idea to get a professional roofer to come to inspect the roof after a heavy storm, especially one involving high winds and hail. We may be able to see signs of internal damage that you may have missed.
Take Pictures For Documentation
Your insurance company will need proof of damages in order to determine coverage eligibility. We urge you not to attempt to get up on a roof after a storm to take pictures. If the damage is visible from the ground, take pictures from multiple angles. You may even consider taking a video or taking photos with a time stamp to ensure timeliness and accuracy. If you can’t get adequate photos from the ground, call Homewerx. Our trained roofers can perform a full inspection and provide the documentation you need for a claim.
Make Temporary Repairs To Prevent Further Damage
In severe roof damage cases, you may need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your home. This could mean putting a tarp over a hole or performing other short-term fixes until it can be professionally repaired. Homewerx can help you ‘dry in’ your roof to prevent further interior damage while you are waiting on your claim to be processed. Keep detailed accounts of the services you used and add them to your roof insurance claim.
Contact Insurance Company To Understand Policy Coverage
Once you’ve assessed the damage and collected documentation, is it time to contact the claims department of your homeowner’s insurance to ensure you understand your coverage. Chances are, throughout the entire claims process you will speak to many different people, so having your claims number on hand can speed up the process and help ensure everyone is on the same page.
Another tip to help ensure a successful roof insurance claim is to know what your policy covers before you ever need it. Taking a minute to read over your specific policy before you are in the middle of an emergency will help you feel informed and confident about what to expect. Common roof insurance exclusions include:
- Having an antiquated (old) roof
- Improper installation
- Damage caused by poor home maintenance
It can be a horrible feeling to assume your insurance is going to help with roof repair costs only to find out your damage is not covered in your policy. Understanding your policy can help speed up the claims process and avoid a lapse in coverage.
Other Financing Options
If your insurance policy does not cover your needed repairs, or if it does not completely cover the repairs, you still have financing options. Homewerx offers no money down programs as well as down payment loans through trusted and insured loan companies.
Call Homewerx Today
A quick and professional repair is essential when you are faced with emergency roof damage. Homewerx has over 15 years of experience, and we are licensed, bonded and insured. We have a strong reputation in the Charleston area for restoring, repairing and replacing roofs damaged by severe weather and other common roofing issues. We are also one of the only Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors in the Charleston area.
Call today for professional roof inspections and repairs!