Can You File an Insurance Claim for Roof Storm Damage?

Storms can wreak havoc on a roof, lifting shingles and sending branches crashing down on top of your home. Homeowner’s insurance often covers the cost of such damage, but many homeowners are unsure whether filing a claim is the best choice. When it comes to major damage, you’ll be better off filing a claim. If your damage is minor, you may have other alternatives. A roofer can help you determine the extent of the damage and advise you on whether or not a claim is appropriate.

Does the Insurance Company Cover Storm Damage?

The answer to this question depends on the insurance policy, the extent of the damage, and the type of natural disaster. Some policies exclude coverage for damage resulting from specific types of natural disasters. Other policies might offer add-on riders to cover such damage. Still others cover most roof damage. You’ll need to read your policy to determine if your damage is covered.

Since most insurers place roof damage under dwelling coverage, so check there first. You can also contact your insurance agent to review the policy. If they cover your situation, some limitations might apply as far as eligibility and coverage amounts and limits.

How Do You File a Claim?

Begin by assessing the damage outside and inside. Next, photograph and record video of the damaged areas, and jot down the date the incident occurred. If you have a photo of the home or roof before the damage, add that to the evidence pile.

Next, contact the insurance company to file a claim. You might be able to do this over the phone, and your agent will complete the forms. Many insurers also offer claim forms online, simplifying the process. Once you file, your insurer will send an adjuster out to survey the area. Leave everything as it is so that the adjuster can document the damage accordingly. If you need to begin clean-up efforts or move items for safety before the adjuster arrives, document and photograph everything you do. If the adjuster or roofer gives you any documents, save them along with your documentation. Keep up with email communications and invoices, and write down important information that the roofer or adjuster says.

While we’re on the subject, calling Big Rock KangaROOF in Little Rock, AR for roof repair after a storm prevents the roof from developing water damage and mold. A roofer will assess the damage and do what is necessary to satisfy insurance requirements. The company is also your witness to insurance claims. The roofer can describe what caused the damage, the severity, and the repairs or replacements needed to solve the issue. Documents provided to support claims increase your chances of securing compensation.

Getting approved or denied by the insurance company takes around ten days. The exact date depends on how busy they are with other claims, the severity of the damage, and how quickly you filed the claim. If you are approved, expect a check within a month or two. The amount you get depends on the deductible. Contact us again to make repairs or replace the roof.

If you get a rejection letter, you can appeal. An adjuster not associated with the insurance company will review your case to determine if the insurance company was correct or incorrect. Some reasons for denial are filing too many claims, waiting too long to file, owner negligence, and old age.

Why Should You File an Insurance Claim?

A storm often destroys multiple roofs in a geographic area, so many people could file claims simultaneously. Insurers then categorize the claims as a catastrophic event and act accordingly. When you call to file your claim, the insurance company will initiate the claims process.

Another reason to file a claim promptly is the statute of limitations. Most insurance policies carry a time limit of one to two years to file a claim before it is automatically denied.

At Big Rock KangaROOF, we know how to handle storm damage because we specialize in it. Our team has seen the damage firsthand because we live in an area where storms are second nature. While our company has been in operation for over a decade, we stand apart from the pack by having a third-generation contractor as an owner. The owner knows both sides of the aisle, ensuring you get quality roof repair while also helping you get coverage from the insurance company. We also offer regular roof inspections, repairs, and replacements for commercial and residential properties. Contact Big Rock KangaROOF for more information on storm damage, insurance claims, and roofing services in Little Rock, AR.