Tips All Home Owners Should Know Before Filing An Insurance Claim
You knew it was going to happen eventually. A big storm rolled through and now you have roof damage to deal with. Whether you have leaks that are getting worse or visible damage that could lead to leaking, you need your roof damage addressed sooner rather than later. You’d think all you have to do is call your insurance company and file a claim, right? In theory, yes, but plenty of insurance adjusters will drag their feet. Don’t let that happen to you! Use these tips to keep your claim provider on the ball when it comes to your roof damage and repairs.
Tip#1: Complete Fiduciary Responsibility
Fiduciary Responsibility means that as a homeowner you need to take actions to mitigate any further damage to your home. For your roof, this may mean that you need to call an emergency repair service to stop water from intruding into your home, until it can be professionally repaired. Document in detail the actions you take and the repair services you receive during this period. Chances are, these are likely to be covered under your insurance policy. GoTo Roofing offers emergency tarping to reduce the amount of damage you will have.
Tip#2: Get a Claim Number
When you call to file your claim, contact your insurance company’s claims department directly, NOT your insurance agent! On subsequent calls to your insurance provider, you might talk to a different person every time. It is extremely important to make note of your claim number and to provide it each and every time you call. This ensures that no matter who it is you speak with, the person on the other end will be able to locate the correct information about your specific claim.
Tip#3: Be Familiar with Your Policy’s Coverage
In recent years, insurance providers have made changes to the coverage of wind and hail damage. Many now require the homeowner to pay a deductible that is a percentage of the total policy coverage. These percentages vary dependent on your provider and coverage, but typically range from 1% to 3% of the total coverage. This means that if your dwelling replacement coverage is $250,000 and you have a 1% deductible for wind or hail damage, you will be responsible for $2,500 of the cost to repair or replace your roof. We recommend homeowners be aware of these deductibles and have that amount set aside in an emergency fund.
Tip#4: Contact a Reputable Roofing Company
Not all roofing companies are equipped or knowledgeable enough to help you with the insurance process. Instead of dealing with insurance issues directly, find a reputable company that can help you with the claim. You’ll need a roofing company to do the job and help you with estimates anyway, they may as well deal with insurance company, on your behalf, as well. Here at GoTo Roofing, we are well versed in all things relating to insurance. With our experience, we’re less likely to get the run-around from adjusters. We can help walk you through filing a claim and ensure that we maximize the dollar amount paid to you in order to get your roof repaired with little to no money out of your own pocket.
Tip#5: Follow Up First, Then File Complaints
If you’re not getting anywhere with your insurance company, even after you have followed up with them, file a complaint about their coverage or service online, by phone, or even by email. Insurance companies are obligated to provide what they’ve promised and if you’re not getting the services you need, there are people above the insurance level that can help you out.
Whether you’re having trouble with insurance, or simply need estimates on your roof damage, the professionals at GoTo Roofing are here to help. We have over 25 years of combined roofing experience and keep up with the many changes in the industry. Each roof repair is completed as if we’re repairing our own home and we recycle materials whenever we can. Let our family-run company help your family with the roof repairs you need! To schedule your free, in-home consultation with one of our certified inspectors, click here.