So, you think you have roof damage. What’re the next steps? Should you call your insurance company to file a claim right away? Or should you call your preferred contractor for an inspection first?how roof claims affect homeowners insurance how roof claims affect homeowners insurance
Always get a free roof inspection first! A reputable contractor can determine if you have enough damage to warrant a claim. Some damage is going to cost about the same as your deductible. In this case, it’s a good idea to just pay out-of-pocket. There’s a limit to the amount of claims you can make in a certain period of time without affecting your premiums. If you don’t need to, don’t!
If the damage was caused by wind or hail, as most roof damage in Texas is, it’s considered an “Act of God” and should not affect your homeowners insurance rates.
However, if it’s a situation that you can control, it could affect your policy. A common example is damage from low-hanging tree branches that could have been trimmed.
If you live in an area that was devastated by a severe hail or wind storm, your insurance carrier may increase rates for everyone in that area, regardless if you filed a claim or not. In this case, it’s best if you just go ahead and get your roof replaced, since you almost certainly need to anyway.
In some cases, replacing your roof will actually lower your home insurance premiums. Ask your carrier about a “New Roof Discount” – most have this and it could save you some money.
If you do decide it’s in you & your family’s best interest to file a claim, have your roofing contractor present when the insurance adjuster inspects your home. They’ll be your advocate & make sure nothing is missed during the inspection. They’ll help you get the full settlement you’re entitled to.
Think you have roof damage? Call Striker now to set up a free inspection. We’re DFW’s premier choice for roofing, and always work with high honesty and integrity, and we’ll walk you through the entire roofing claim process – it’ll be a piece of cake! Call or message us now to schedule!
how roof claims affect insurance how roof claims affect insurance
