Nobody likes dealing with roof damage, but when a storm rips through and leaves your shingles looking like a bad haircut, you might wonder: will my insurance cover this mess? The good news is, yes, you can get insurance to pay for roof replacement if your roof is qualified and you follow the right steps. Thinking about qualification of roof coverage? We have explained below.
Insurance companies aren’t just handing out checks for fun. They need proof, documentation, and the right process to be followed. If you skip a step, you might be stuck paying out of pocket. Follow this step by step guide and get that roof fixed without unnecessary headaches.
What Disqualifies Your Roof From an Insurance Claim?
Why might your claim get denied? Well, Not every roof issue qualifies for insurance coverage, and some common disqualifications include:
- Old Age: If your roof is over 20 years old, most insurance companies will only pay for a small portion (if anything at all). Older roofs are considered normal wear and tear, not damage.
- Neglect: If you haven’t maintained your roof like missing shingles, ignored leaks, or moss growing like a jungle, insurance might reject your claim bro.
- Pre-existing Damage: If the roof was already damaged before you got insurance, they won’t cover it.
- Improper Installation: Did a cheap contractor do a bad job? Insurance won’t pay to fix mistakes from poor workmanship.
- Excluded Events: Some policies exclude certain natural disasters like earthquakes or floods. If your policy doesn’t cover it, tough luck.
Knowing these disqualifiers can save you time and frustration when filing your claim.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get Insurance to Pay for a Roof Replacement
Now that you know what might disqualify your roof, let’s go through the exact steps to maximize your chances of getting that claim approved.
Step 1: Review Your Insurance Policy for Roof Coverage
Don’t assume you’re covered, instead grab that policy and read it. Look for terms like Replacement Cost Value (RCV) and Actual Cash Value (ACV). If you have an ACV policy, the insurance will only cover the roof’s depreciated value, which may not be enough for a full replacement. RCV policies, on the other hand, cover the full cost of replacing your roof.
Note: Don’t forget to check for exclusions. Some policies don’t cover wind or hail damage unless you specifically added it.
Step 2: Assess Your Roof
Before calling your insurance company, take a good look at your roof. Walk around your home and check for missing shingles, leaks, dents, or other visible signs of damage. If you can safely do so, take photos from different angles.
Not sure what to look for? Check your gutters, siding, and outdoor furniture for signs of hail or debris impact. If your car got dented in the storm, there’s a good chance your roof took a hit too.
Step 3: Document Your Roof Damage
Insurance companies love evidence. Take clear, time-stamped photos and videos of your roof before and after the damage. If possible, find any old photos showing your roof in good condition. This helps prove the damage wasn’t pre-existing.
Write down any details about the storm like when it happened, what type of damage occurred, and any other relevant information.
Tip: If your neighbors had similar damage and got insurance approval, that’s useful information to mention.
Step 4: Meet The Right Roofing Professionals & Do Background Checks
Hiring a professional roofing contractor can make or break your claim. A good contractor knows how to assess damage, provide detailed reports, and communicate with insurance adjusters.
Be careful, though some shady roofers may offer to “cover” your deductible or inflate costs. Insurance companies are cracking down on this, and it could land you in legal trouble.
Make sure the contractor is licensed, insured, and has experience working with insurance claims. A professional will:
- Inspect your roof thoroughly
- Provide a detailed damage report
- Estimate the cost of repairs
- Help communicate with your insurance company
Step 5: File and Fulfill Your Insurance Claim
Now it’s time to file that claim. Contact your insurance company and provide all the necessary details:
- Your policy number
- Date and cause of the damage
- Photos and documentation
- Contractor’s damage report
Be present during the inspection and have your contractor there too. The adjuster might overlook some damage, but a contractor can advocate for you and point out areas that need fixing.
If your claim is approved, you’ll receive a payout based on your policy type. If it’s denied, don’t panic, you can appeal the decision. Ask for a re-inspection or provide additional evidence to strengthen your case.
Final Thoughts
Getting insurance to pay for roof replacement isn’t always straightforward, but with the right steps, it’s absolutely possible. Read your policy, document everything, work with a trusted roofer, and don’t be afraid to push back if your claim is denied.
So when damage happens, make sure your insurance does its part in covering the costs. Follow this guide, and you’ll be well on your way to getting that roof replaced without breaking the bank.