Replacing a roof is a significant expense, but if your roof is damaged due to a covered peril, your homeowners insurance policy might cover the cost.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get your insurance company to pay for a roof replacement.
Understanding Your Policy
Know Your Coverage: Start by thoroughly reviewing your homeowners insurance policy. Most standard policies cover roof damage caused by specific perils such as fire, wind, hail, and certain types of water damage. Wear and tear or damage due to lack of maintenance is typically not covered.
Deductibles: Be aware of your deductible amount. This is the portion of the claim you are responsible for paying. For example, if your deductible is $1,000 and the roof replacement costs $10,000, the insurance company will cover $9,000.
Exclusions: Understand the exclusions in your policy. Some policies may exclude certain types of roofs or have specific exclusions for roofs over a certain age.
Documenting the Damage
Immediate Action: If your roof is damaged, take immediate action to prevent further damage. This might include temporary repairs or covering holes with tarps. Document these actions and any expenses, as they may be reimbursable.
Photographic Evidence: Take clear, detailed photographs of the damage from multiple angles. Ensure you capture all visible damage, including close-ups and wider shots that show the context of the damage.
Professional Inspection: Hire a professional roofing contractor to inspect the damage. They can provide a detailed report and an estimate for the repair or replacement cost. Their expertise can also help in identifying damage that might not be visible to the untrained eye.
Filing the Claim
Contact Your Insurer: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurers have a specific window in which you must file a claim after the damage occurs.
Provide Documentation: Submit all necessary documentation, including photos, the contractor’s inspection report, repair estimates, and any receipts for temporary repairs. The more detailed your documentation, the stronger your claim.
Fill Out Claim Forms: Complete any claim forms provided by your insurance company. Be thorough and honest in your descriptions of the damage and how it occurred.
Working with the Adjuster
Adjuster Inspection: Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Be present during the inspection to point out all areas of damage and provide any additional information or documentation the adjuster may need.
Contractor Involvement: If possible, have your roofing contractor present during the adjuster’s inspection. They can discuss the extent of the damage and the necessary repairs, which can help in getting a fair assessment.
Detailed Estimate: Ensure the adjuster’s report matches the damage noted by your contractor. If there are discrepancies, discuss them with the adjuster. Sometimes having a detailed, professional estimate can support your case.
Negotiating and Following Up
Negotiation: If the initial offer from the insurance company is lower than expected, don’t hesitate to negotiate. Provide additional documentation or expert opinions to support your claim.
Supplemental Claims: If additional damage is discovered during the repair process, file a supplemental claim. Notify your insurance company immediately and provide the necessary documentation.
Stay Organized: Keep detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, including emails, phone calls, and letters. Document the date, time, and the names of the representatives you speak with.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Denied Claims: If your claim is denied, request a written explanation. Review your policy to ensure the denial is justified. If you believe the denial is unfair, you can appeal the decision. Provide any additional evidence or seek the assistance of a public adjuster or an attorney specializing in insurance claims.
Partial Payments: Sometimes, insurance companies may offer partial payment, arguing that only part of the damage is covered. In such cases, negotiate by providing additional documentation or expert opinions.
Old Roofs: For older roofs, insurance companies may only cover the depreciated value, not the full replacement cost. If your policy includes replacement cost coverage, you should receive enough to replace the roof. Otherwise, consider negotiating for a higher payout or exploring policy upgrades in the future.