As tough as roofs are, they are still very susceptible to damage. Roofs are face-up to the elements, and they get bombarded by Mother Nature daily. From severe sudden storms to wear and tear over time, damage happens. This is why roof damage insurance is so important. Not all insurance packages are the same, of course. You have to know what to expect.
At Beyond Exteriors, we specialize in exterior solutions like roofs, and also help our clients navigate roof insurance claims. Every policy is different, but there are common principles that dictate what roof damage is covered. Our goal is to provide you with the information necessary to make the claims process as smooth as possible.
How Homeowners Insurance Typically Covers Roof Damage
Homeowners insurance is generally designed to protect you from sudden, accidental circumstances such as hailstorms, hurricanes, etc. This also applies directly to your roof. When filing roof insurance claims, your policy should typically cover the cost of repairs or replacement if the damage is caused by an “act of nature” or a qualifying event.
The key for homeowners here is recognizing the difference between damage that is sudden and damage that is the result of long-term neglect. Insurance companies are famous for leaning on the latter, attempting to deny claims due to your neglect. Therefore, it’s important you know what you’re dealing with.
Factors That Influence Whether a Claim Is Approved
Several factors will work to influence the approval of your claim. Insurance companies will send an adjuster to evaluate the situation, and they will base their decision on policy language and their own inspection of the damage.
- Wind and storm damage
- Hail damage
- Fire damage
- Falling trees or objects
- Basically, any act of nature
Roof Damage That Is Not Typically Covered
It is just as important to understand what roof damage is not covered by your policy. Trust us when we say that the adjuster sent out is looking for reasons not to approve your claim, so you must understand which damages will not be covered.
- Wear and tear from age
- Rot, mold, or improper ventilation
- Poor installation or faulty workmanship
- Neglect or lack of maintenance
- Anything deemed human-caused
If you suspect storm roof damage coverage might apply, contacting a professional roofing contractor like Beyond Exteriors for a pre-claim inspection will give you a better picture of the cause of damage. Essentially, we will let you know whether your claim has teeth.
What to Ask Your Insurance Company After Roof Damage
Once you’ve identified the roof damage and are ready to file a claim, communicating with your insurance provider is important. Having your policy details and a list of specific questions prepared will streamline the process. Here are some questions you should be asking.
Is this damage covered under my policy?
This is the most direct and important question to confirm coverage. Specifically, ask if the cause of the damage is a covered clause under your specific policy.
What is my deductible and out-of-pocket cost?
Your deductible is the amount you must pay before the insurance company ponies up its share. Understanding this figure helps you budget for the necessary repair or replacement.
Do I have ACV or RCV coverage?
This is a critical question for roof damage insurance. ACV (Actual Cash Value) equals the roof’s value minus depreciation. This will leave you with a larger out-of-pocket expense. RCV (Replacement Cost Value) pays the full cost of a new roof, minus your deductible.
Should I get multiple roofing estimates?
While the insurance company will send an adjuster to estimate the damage, getting a second opinion is important. Receiving an independent, detailed estimate from a reputable roofing company helps ensure the scope of the claim accurately covers all necessary work.
Is there a deadline for filing a claim?
Many policies have strict timeframes for reporting damage, and they’re non-negotiable. You must confirm this deadline immediately to ensure your claim is processed.
Need Help Navigating Roof Damage and Insurance? Work with Beyond Exteriors!
Dealing with roof insurance claims can feel overwhelming, especially when you are worried about the security of your home. Understanding what roof damage is covered is the first step in the process. The most important, however, may be having an experienced professional on your side to ensure a fair resolution.
At Beyond Exteriors, we provide detailed, insurance-focused inspections and work with adjusters to confirm that all necessary repairs are included. Our experience with local adjusters and their requirements enables us to document storm-related roof damage coverage issues accurately. Aside from roofing, Beyond Exteriors also provides a broad range of exterior services, including gutter replacement, siding installation, and window replacements. We are here to restore your home’s integrity and value.
Contact Beyond Exteriors today for more information about room damage insurance and how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
An insurance claim with roof damage is a lot more involved than taking care of the roof damage itself. Luckily, we handle both aspects of the situation at Beyond Exteriors. Here are some answers to some of the most common questions we receive.
