We all know that having a roof over our head is a need, and yet, it is often something that we don’t think about or appreciate until we don’t have it. Sometimes, small creatures like bats or squirrels can cause major damage to your roof. Other times, major natural disasters like storms with wind, hail, and rain, can render your roof useless. Our Austin roofing company is here to help you know how and when to file a homeowner’s insurance claim to help offset the costs incurred with a roof replacement.
Roofing companies should have experience working with insurance agencies to give your timely repairs or replacement to your old or damaged roof. However, if any steps are missed in the process or you are not familiar with the roofing coverage in your policy, your Austin roofing team may not be able to give you the best service they can. Here are some ways to make sure the roofing companies you are looking at to work with your insurance will be able to get your new roof fully covered.
1. Discover and Document Damage
The first step to getting your new roof covered by insurance is having thorough documentation of interior and exterior damage. Are shingles ripped off? Is there hail damage? What about water damage from indoor leaks due to roof damage? You will want to get as up close and personal as you can to all the compromised areas. Take detailed photographs from all angles to the best of your ability. Also, document the date, time, and manner in which the damage occurred. Your insurance company will use this information to help the adjuster document and cover your claim.
2. Know Your Policy Provisions
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover your roof, but some may only cover repairs versus replacement. It is important to know how your policy works before you have roofing damage. Take the time to make yourself familiar with time stipulations as well. Many insurance companies require that you report roof damage within a certain timeframe, or it nullifies any coverage of expenses that you may incur.
3. Scammer Alert
Be aware that scammers are all over when it comes to insurance claims, especially after a major natural disaster. Roofing companies that come door to door promising a new roof covered by insurance or employ high pressure sales tactics requiring you to sign for your new roof now, should leave you on high alert. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is.
4. Be Aware of Loopholes
Always make sure that you know what you are signing. Some less than reputable companies will have contingency contracts buried within free estimates and inspection reports that have you agreeing to them completing your repairs, even if that is not what you had in mind. Always know your policy and what you are signing to avoid new roof nightmares. When in doubt, double check it out.
