After a major storm, you may be left scrambling to find the best roofer to perform repairs and contact your roof insurance provider for the best coverage. But you don’t have to worry about figuring it all out for yourself because we’re here to help!
Check out our guide for how to handle roof insurance after a storm.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Storm Damage to Roof?
The first question you may be asking yourself after a major storm is, “Does homeowners insurance cover storm damage to my roof?”
Typically, yes, homeowners insurance will cover storm damage to your roof including:
- Wind damage
- Hail damage
- Damage from fallen objects like tree branches
- Roof leaks from storm damage
For example, if a fallen branch or damaged shingle causes a leak in your home, insurance is likely to cover repairs.
However, to get the best roof insurance coverage, you have to go about the claim process the right way.
5 Steps to Handle Roof Insurance After a Storm
1. Schedule a Roof Inspection with Experts
The first step after a major storm is to call a local roofing company for an inspection. Many roofing companies offer free inspections and roof patches to cover immediate damage and protect your home’s interior. Although you may be tempted to contact your insurance company first, remember that roofing companies are well-versed in dealing with insurance claims and can work to get you the best coverage. They can also help file the paperwork and communicate with your insurance company throughout the process.
2. Document Every Detail of Your Storm Damage
Following your roof inspection, you and your roofing company should work together to collect thorough documentation of roof damage including:
- Photos of hail, fallen branches, or stray roof shingles
- Day and time of the storm
- Photos of damage to the roof, home exterior, and home interior – up close and at a distance
You should collect this information in the days immediately following the storm. The faster you can report damages to your insurance company, the more likely your roof replacement or repair can get full coverage.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you have a detailed damage report and repair or replacement quotes from one or more roofing companies, you can contact your insurance company. Remember, you want to file a storm damage roof insurance claim soon after a storm to get the best coverage! That’s why we recommend working with a roofing company that understands the roof insurance claim process and can work quickly to get the coverage you need.
4. Negotiate with Your Insurance Company for the Best Coverage
You don’t have to accept the first claim or offer your insurance company presents – especially if it doesn’t cover all your storm damage repair. This is another part of the roof insurance claim process where having a trustworthy or knowledgeable roofing company on your side is helpful. Roofing companies deal with insurance claims all day – they know what it takes to get the best coverage for you.
5. Choose a Reliable Roofing Company for Your Roof Replacement or Repair
In the roofing industry, unfortunately, there are ‘storm chasers.’ Short-term contractors pop up after storms and then disappear without the assurance of product or workmanship warranties. When choosing the best roofing company to handle your roof replacement or repair after storm damage, ensure they are reliable and trustworthy by asking these questions:
- Are they licensed and insured to operate in your state?
- Are they backed by a great online reputation?
- Are they locally known for providing reliable service?
- Do they have a wide range of product options?
- Are their products and workmanship backed by warranties?
Trust Perimeter Roofing to Handle Your Roof Insurance Claims!
If your home has experienced major storm damage, trust Perimeter Roofing to get the best roof insurance coverage for you. Over the last two decades and across nine locations, we’ve worked with every insurance company available and replaced thousands of roofs. We know what it takes to get you the best coverage and take care of your home. So next time disaster strikes, don’t worry! The team at Perimeter Roofing is here to help!