Processing storm damage insurance claims is perhaps the most complicated part of dealing with the aftermath of a storm. While most of the work is done between your insurance provider and your chosen local roofers, knowing how it works can help manage your expectations and let you focus on your family’s safety and shelter. Here are some of the things you should know about storm damage insurance claims.
Document Everything
Once you have reported the situation to your insurance provider, make it a point to document everything. Take photos and videos with your smartphone while you wait for your roofing contractor to arrive. This is important in case local authorities and volunteers arrive to clear the debris and start throwing things away – undocumented claims tend to be more difficult to process.
Your Contractor is Your Best Friend
It may take some time for your insurance adjuster to arrive, and it’s often the roofing contractor who is first on the scene. In these situations, you must extend your patience: a single contractor may need to provide emergency residential roofing services first to other homeowners before coming back and addressing insurance concerns. Don’t be tempted to hire “storm chasers” or contractors you didn’t contact yourself; you may end up with more problems than actual solutions.
Insurance companies typically issue two checks for eligible claims: one for the actual cash value (ACV) or market value, then another that covers the remaining amount based on the roofing contractor’s estimate, minus deductibles. Don’t be tempted to cut corners just to save some cash from the payout money: always go for the roof exactly as your contractor quoted. Trust us, you’ll reap its benefits in the long run.
What’s Covered by Roofing Insurance
The payout amount is affected by many variables, like the roofing structure itself – material, pitch and coverage area – as well as the number of common “weak spots” like protrusions, valleys, and the kind of moisture barrier used. There’s also the building codes and other requirements to consider, but basically, it’s like this: the better quality and more compliant your roof is, the more favorable the payout will be.
Coverage can sometimes be improved by your choice of roofing options, especially when it can potentially increase your home’s value. For instance, roofs with architectural shingles, maintained by a trusted roofing contractor, stand a better chance of a higher payout compared to a neglected roof with traditional three-tab shingles.
If you would like to know more about our roofing services, including commercial roof coatings, call Empire Contractors LLC today at (513) 409-0880. To schedule a free, no-obligation quote, use our online contact form. We serve homeowners and business owners in the greater Cincinnati, OH area.