A powerful storm blows through your neighborhood. After the clouds disperse, you go outside to assess your home. You soon discover that several shingles are loose or lying in the yard. You also observe significant amounts of tree debris on your roof. You’re hoping that your roof hasn’t been punctured. But, honestly, you can’t tell from ground level.
At this point, you have an important decision to make: “Should I call a roofer or my insurance company first?” In the past, well-meaning family members and friends have told you that you must always contact your insurance provider before reaching out to anyone, including a contractor. However, you aren’t sure if this advice is in your best interest, so you search the Internet for answers.
Should I Call A Roofer Or Insurance Company First?
8 Reasons To Involve A Roofing Contractor Immediately
1. Decide Whether Filing An Insurance Claim For Roof Damage Makes Sense
If your property insurance policy contains particular limits, you should know whether filing a claim makes sense. Submitting a claim can adversely impact your future insurability. Additionally, you have a deductible up to a certain amount, which you need to pay out-of-pocket first. A reputable roofing company can help you reach an informed decision.
2. Evaluate Any Roof Warranty To Determine If Damage Is Covered
Many construction manufacturers supply a roof warranty to protect against defects or covered perils. How do you know if your warranty covers a particular issue? How do you know if you even have a warranty? Surprisingly, many people do not even know whether they possess a warranty. An established roofer can help figure out the situation.
3. Involve A Professional Who Will Advocate On Your Behalf With The Insurer
Insurance companies operate in what best serves their interests, not yours. After all, they exist in a profit-making industry. They will quickly go out of business if they fail to prioritize managing the bottom line. A knowledgeable roofing contractor can help negotiate to ensure you receive a fair resolution when dealing with your insurance provider.
4. Mitigate Against Additional Damage To Your Structure Or Roofing System
After a storm, you reach out to your insurer. You inform them of what took place. They dispatch an adjuster to assess the situation. Then nothing happens, at least not for a while. Meanwhile, your roof has suffered tangible damage. You observe water leaking into your structure. The lesson? Don’t wait on the insurer to help mitigate against further issues.
5. Obtain A Fair & Objective Roofing Inspection From A Roofing Contractor
Knowledge is power. Why rely solely on your insurance company’s adjuster to provide an accurate picture of your roofing system’s condition? A roofing company can deliver a roof inspection and prepare a detailed report with their evidence and findings to assist you with understanding the extent of the damage. That way, you can make informed decisions.
6. Reduce The Likelihood Of Your Insurance Company Denying Your Claim
Why does an insurer accept one claim but deny another almost identical claim? Insurance companies are deciphering legitimate, well-organized claims from ones that lack authenticity or appear disheveled. A reputable roofing company can help you prepare the claim, including supporting documentation, to meet insurance standards.
7. Secure Accurate Visual & Written Documentation Of Exactly What Happened
After a storm, nothing matters more than gathering accurate information about what happened. Think of an accident scene. Before cleanup, authorities gather visual evidence and take written statements from witnesses. A roofing company acts as an authoritative party. They can comprehensively assess the situation and collect crucial documentation.
8. Understand Your Property Insurance Policy, Including What It Covers
Corporate lawyers for insurance providers write property insurance policies using language and terminology that can confuse the average layperson. How can one overcome this disadvantage? Involve a knowledgeable roofing contractor. They understand the intricacies of an insurance policy and can provide guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Storm Damage To Your Roof? Understanding The Restoration Process
Avoid climbing onto the roof after a storm. Instead, let an established roofing company use appropriate tools and equipment to assess the roof. They should also meet with your insurance adjuster and, in many cases, communicate directly with your insurance provider, with or without your presence. The roofing contractor can also ensure that insurance company disbursements take place in a timely and efficient manner. Finally, they will perform repair, restoration, or replacement work to meet the insurer’s standards.
Hiring A Knowledgeable 24/7 Emergency Storm Damage Roofing Contractor
For homeowners and commercial building owners in the Kansas City, MO, metropolitan area, Bill West Roofing offers unparalleled roofing expertise following a storm. We assist homeowners and businesses with understanding what steps to take next. We advocate on your behalf to ensure full recovery.
If you have questions about our residential or commercial roofing services, contact Bill West Roofing. If you need knowledgeable guidance in the immediate aftermath of a powerful storm, let us be the calming presence you need. We’ll provide fast, responsive service throughout the restoration process.