Watkins Construction & Roofing is here to fill you in on the things to do when filing for roof damage insurance. Filing an insurance claim is never a good sign, as your roof will be damaged severely in that case. If you want to file a claim and you can’t simply avoid it, here are the guidelines that you can use to file the insurance claim and get the amount in no time.
The roof is always ignored until it is damaged to a great extent. Roof repairing or replacement projects are very sudden, and they can appear out of nowhere. Some homeowners experience desperation and frustration due to roof damage. If your roof is insured, chances are that you can get it repaired or replaced without spending any money from your pocket at all.
When to file an insurance claim
It is totally normal to be confused when you file an insurance claim, especially about the timing of filing it. After you file the claim, an inspector will come over to check the roof for damage and evaluate it based on various factors. The age of your roof is the first thing that the roof inspector will ask you about. After this, he will check the previous installation to check for any faults.
In case of faulty installation, things will go in a different direction. On the other hand, when there are clear signs of damage, and it is due to weather, he will give you the green signal to file your claim. Here is the checklist for a roof inspection.
• Raised or lifted shingles
• Missing or sunken shingles
• Cracks or damage to the chimney
• Missing fasteners or screws
• Significant and obvious damage
Things to Do When Filing for Roof Damage Insurance Claims
1. Have professionals assess the damage
The first step is to simply know what is wrong with your roof. Hiring a professional crew like Watkins is the best choice. Professionals know exactly what to look for and can work safely even if the roof is damaged. Most skilled roofing contractors will be able to provide you with a full description of the problems and all the possible solutions.
2. Find out what is covered by the insurance
The insurance policy of every home is different, and these policies can cover more damage or less damage. The only way to be sure about what the insurance covers is by calling the insurance company. You can read the insurance papers by yourself to learn how much money you get as an insurance claim.
3. Document the damage
This step is completed along with the first step in most cases. When a professional roofing company comes out to examine the roof, they will provide you with a full breakdown and photo evidence so you can present them to the insurance company. Another good idea is to add images of your roof in perfect condition for comparison. Also, you should notify the company about damage to the interior of the house as well as damage to your valuables.
4. File your claim
After gathering all the required documents, you should file your claim with your provider. To play safe, we recommend filing the claim as soon as possible because certain insurance companies require notification of the damage within a specified time of damage. They can reject your claim if you wait too long.
5. Contact a roofing contractor
You can contact the desired roofing contractor in your area but make sure that they are professional. Professional roofing contractors also help players in filing for the claim and spending the amount in the right way. Roofing companies share the complete details about repairs and how much they will cost with you and the insurance company.
6. Submit the claim
Finally, you can submit your claim once all the paperwork is completed. The claim will be reviewed by your insurance company. Include receipts for any damage to the interior of the residence, including personal possessions, to make your case strong. In some situations, you may have to move to a new location and live there, which may also be paid.
7. Receive evaluation from the adjuster
The final step is to talk to an insurance adjuster. He will evaluate the total cost of the project. Arrange a meeting where the roofing contractor is present, and he meets the adjuster.
8. Repair the roof
Finally, you can begin the work of repairing the roof after the deal is finalized with the adjuster. The process will depend on the extent of the damage and the project type.
For more information, you can reach Watkins Construction & Roofing at 601-488-3179. We service areas in Jackson, Flowood, Clinton, and Ridgeland, MS.