INSURANCE CLAIMS
Check out the answers to some of my clients’ most common insurance questions below. If there’s something we’ve missed, just get in touch and we’ll do our best to help you.
Everything you need to know
When is the best time to file a claim?
It's a great idea to reach out to a trusted roofing contractor before you start the claims process. You can typically file a claim for any named storm up to 2 years after- this is because sometimes the damage isn't immediately visible, and may take some time before a homeowner begins to notice the effects the storm's damage caused.
If your roof is leaking, we can provide a temporary repair by means of tarping to prevent further damage, but we advise you not make any major replacements or repairs until your claim in properly filed. Starting repairs without proper photos, documentation, or a claim filed may ruin your chances of maximizing your claim.
It is your insurance company's duty to restore your roof back to working order.
Reaching out to us before the claims process allows us to be there every step of the way as your advocate. We can walk you through the initial phone call, how to answer all their questions, meet with your field adjuster to make sure they correctly identify and document all damage (things they might miss if we were not out their pointing it out), as well as negotiate for you to ensure you receive everything you are entitled to. That's what you pay a premium for.
Why is my insurance company asking me to provide multiple estimates?
They can request this, but please understand it is not mandatory. In fact, it is illegal for them to ask you to find another roofer who will do your roof for cheaper than what they "want" to pay for a claim. Make sure you get what you are entitled to, and do not short change yourself with a low-ball roofing estimate. You'll likely get stuck with a poor quality job that will only cause headaches in the future.
You are allowed to use the roofing company you want, and do not need to provide multiple estimates.
How exactly do you help with insurance claims?
Dealing with insurance can be tricky, and they speak a "language" that we are also fluent in-- so we are able to get you everything you are entitled to.
From what you need to say in your initial phone call to make the claim, to meeting your adjuster and making sure they document every bit of damage, to creating an itemized scope of work utilizing the exact same software your insurance company uses (which makes it hard for them to negotiate lower), to documenting your damage exactly how they need to see it. Having a knowledgeable and trustworthy roofing contractor on your side can make a world of difference in the insurance world.
My insurance didn't pay enough to repair my roof damages. What now?
Unfortunately, this is something we often hear when our customers call us for the first time. But, rest assured, we can successfully negotiate with insurance to pay for all damages. Most of our customer have seen significant increases in their estimates after working with us.
Adjusters are not roofing professionals. They often leave out very important aspects of your roofing system, or miss damages that a licensed roofing contractor can spot and identify. We often ask for second inspections with your field adjuster so we can be present and represent you. We provide better documentation for the desk adjuster, and continue following up until we believe what they are paying is fair.
Please do not accept less than you are entitled to-- this is what you pay your premiums for!
How long does the claims process take?
We've seen turn around as quick as two to three weeks, and some take six months. It all depends on the time of the year, your roof assessment, how much back and forth we need to do with your insurance company... and ultimately, who you're insured with. But, we will keep you updated every step of the process.