When your roof is damaged by hail or storms, starting the process of working with your homeowners’ insurance can feel overwhelming. To help make this process less stressful and provide the resources you need; we wanted to outline some helpful tips on the home insurance claim process. In this article, you’ll learn if your roof might be covered by insurance as well as three tips for starting the home insurance claims process.
At AIC Roofing and Construction, we help Louisville homeowners take the stress out of navigating the homeowner’s insurance process and getting the roof replacement they deserve. We work directly with your insurance company to ensure you’re getting all the repairs and replacements that your home deserves. We are experienced working with insurance companies and advocating for Louisville homeowners. Just as you wouldn’t go to court without an attorney, don’t navigate the homeowner’s insurance process without an advocate.
Home Insurance Basics
So what does your homeowner’s insurance cover? For roofs, insurance typically covers damage from “acts of nature.” Common examples include wind, hail, lightning, fire, and ice.
If a tree falls on your roof during a wind or lightning event, insurance usually covers the damage. Hail that damages shingles is generally covered as well. Your policy often covers other structures, like sheds or fences, too. You are responsible for the deductible, and insurance pays the rest.
Roof leaks caused by normal wear and tear, poor installation, lack of maintenance, or other uncovered events are usually not covered.
Homeowner’s insurance policies vary, so ask your agent for the specifics of your coverage.
3 tips for starting the home insurance claims process
The insurance claims process for your roof repair can feel overwhelming at times. We suggest having an expert whose interests are aligned with yours – your roofing contractor – advocate for you and guide you through the process.
1. First, contact your roofer
Most Louisville roofing companies, including AIC Roofing, offer free roof estimates and inspections. If you suspect storm damage, start with a free inspection. This helps you understand the type of damage, if any, and your roofing contractor can guide you through the claims process.
When contacting a roofing contractor after reaching out to your insurance company, choose one with experience working with insurers and supplementing claims. Insurance companies can sometimes overlook items that need repair or replacement. Your contractor can point out everything to the adjuster to make sure your roof gets fully restored. Even if you already received an insurance check, an experienced roofer will help you get reimbursement for all covered damages.
Your roofer works for you, not the insurance company. To ensure a fair outcome, make sure both the homeowner and the insurance company are properly represented when evaluating the roof.
2. Claims Process
If your roofer finds storm, hail, wind, or other covered damage, start the claims process by filing online with your insurance policy. File as soon as you notice the damage, since many policies limit how long after a storm you can submit a claim.
Once the claim is received, the insurance company sends an adjuster to inspect your roof. Keep your roofing contractor in the loop, they can meet the adjuster and explain their findings. The adjuster will then approve or deny your claim. If approved, they provide a list of repairs the insurance company will cover.
3. What should you do if your homeowner’s insurance claim was denied
What should you do if your home insurance claim gets denied? Keep in mind that homeowners insurance adjusters usually are not experienced roofers. They focus on spotting damage, not evaluating your roof’s overall condition. If an adjuster denied your claim before you called a roofing company for an independent inspection, it’s not too late. Contact a trustworthy Louisville roofing company right away.
Insurance companies reject homeowners’ claims every day—sometimes for valid reasons, sometimes for reasons that seem unclear. You can take steps to contest a claim denial after an insured property loss. A roofer can help you gather evidence and prepare documentation to support your appeal.
If you’ve already worked with a roofing company and the insurance claim is denied, you can file an appeal. Roofing companies often offer financing options to ensure your roof gets the repairs it needs, depending on the claim and urgency.
Homeowners’ insurance will not cover a roof that was improperly installed. For example, if strong Kentucky winds tear off shingles and the adjuster finds the shingles were installed incorrectly, they likely will deny the claim. This is one reason to hire a reputable, experienced roofing company that backs their work with a solid craftsmanship warranty.
Best home maintenance practices
We strongly recommend having your roof inspection annually, as part of your yearly home maintenance tasks. Inspections are free and can help identify small repair items before they cause thousands in damage, prevent mold in your home, and allow your roofer to spot any storm damage that you may be unaware of.
Wrapping Up
Our roofing company is your advocate during the insurance claims process. Choose an experienced, knowledgeable team to represent your home.
At AIC Roofing and Construction, we have replaced over 10,000 roofs in central Kentucky. We handle storm-damaged roofs regularly and take pride in successfully advocating for Louisville homeowners. Whether a storm has damaged your home or you are due for a roof replacement, our Learning Center provides information on every step so you can navigate your project with confidence.
If you suspect your roof may have storm damage or if your roof is due for a checkup, contact us today to schedule your free roof inspection!
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