How to: Storm Damage Insurance Claim Process for Roof Repair

Has your roof been damaged by a storm? Whether it’s hail or wind roof damage, the insurance claim process is often marred by misunderstandings, leading to confusion for homeowners. In this article, we will debunk three common insurance hail claim myths and provide practical guidance to ensure a smooth roof repair process and make sure you get the best quality roof repair.

Myth 1: Do We Need 3 Estimates? Roof Storm Damage Estimates vs. Roofer Interviews

After filing a hail damage claim, insurance companies typically send an adjuster to inspect your property and verify the extent of the damage. The adjuster will provide you with necessary paperwork and an initial check to initiate the repair process. It is common for insurance adjusters to advise homeowners to obtain three “roof estimates” from different roofing companies to fix the hail damage. However, this advice can be misleading and may lead to unnecessary complications.

The truth is, the insurance adjuster’s main goal is to ensure the insurance company pays the fair amount for the repairs. They may suggest getting multiple estimates to help homeowners find the best price. However, the insurance company has already set a predetermined amount based on their assessment, which is what they will pay.

To simplify the process, homeowners should seek three “roofer interviews” instead of estimates. During these interviews, share your insurance paperwork with the roofing companies so they can assess the scope of work and offer insights. Remember, the insurance company will withhold a portion of the payout until the work is completed, so any difference between the initial amount and the actual repair cost will be adjusted within the remaining balance.

Example: Suppose your insurance claim amount is $20,000, and your deductible is $1,000. The insurance company will initially provide you with $11,000 as the actual cash value. After deducting the $1,000 deductible and $8,000 in recoverable depreciation, the remaining $8,000 will be paid upon the completion of the repairs. In this scenario, obtaining three roof estimates won’t impact the insurance payout, so focus on choosing a reputable roofing contractor through interviews.

Myth 2: Only Pay for the Roof Repair Deductible

Another common misconception is comparing insurance claims to making a regular purchase, where getting multiple quotes is the norm. With insurance claims, the deductible is the only amount you need to pay. This is fundamentally different from purchasing goods or services.

An insurance claim’s essence is to restore your property to its pre-damage condition, and the insurance company has already assessed the cost to achieve that. Therefore, obtaining multiple bids from roofing companies won’t change the predetermined payout amount by the insurance company.

Example: If your insurance claim is $20,000 and your deductible is $1,000, you are responsible for the $1,000, and the insurance company will cover the remaining $19,000 for the repair. This allows you to restore your entire property without incurring additional costs beyond the deductible.

Myth 3: Should I Choose the Lowest Roof Repair Bid ?

Hailstorms often attract roofing companies, some of which are fly-by-night operators or out-of-state “storm chasers.” While it may be tempting to choose the lowest bid, doing so can lead to problems in the long run.

Homeowners should be cautious when considering the lowest bid, as some contractors may compromise on the quality of materials or workmanship to cut costs. Additionally, some might leave out essential repairs that are covered in the insurance claim to present a lower bid.

Example: If the lowest bid for your $19,000 insurance claim comes in at $18,000, there is a $1,000 surplus. However, the homeowner does not get to keep this amount; it goes back to the insurance company. Choosing the lower bid might result in using subpar materials, which could lead to future roof issues and expensive repairs.

Instead, it is advisable to choose a roofing contractor that provides a bid matching the insurance claim amount. This ensures you receive the standard rate for materials and labor, without any compromises in quality. The roofing company will invoice the insurance amount, and you will only pay your deductible.

During the selection process for roofing contractors, it is crucial to ensure that you are at ease with the residential roofing company you ultimately choose. Verify that they are local, possess appropriate licenses and insurance, and offer a minimum of a 1-year workmanship warranty. It is also important to obtain a clear and comprehensible contract that aligns with the details in your insurance claim paperwork. Conduct a thorough review of their credentials through sources such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Angie’s List, and Google, focusing on their customer reviews and ratings. Refrain from succumbing to high-pressure sales tactics and take the necessary time to make an informed decision.

Conclusion:

Navigating the hail and wind storm damage insurance claim process for roof repair can be straightforward if homeowners understand the realities behind common myths. By seeking “roofer interviews” instead of estimates, understanding the purpose of the deductible, and avoiding the temptation of the lowest bid, homeowners can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth and successful roof repair process. At 616 Roofs, we possess the expertise and experience to guide you through the entire insurance claim process, providing top-quality repair services for your property.

We also provide ideas for modernizing your roof so it’s less likely to sustain future damage, or turn your roof repair into a renovation!