Roof Replacement: Insurance First?

Replacing a roof can be costly, so it's understandable that homeowners would want to use their insurance to cover the expenses. However, it's not as simple as making a claim and getting a new roof. There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to replace your roof before changing your insurance. Firstly, you need to assess the damage to your roof. This should be done by a trained professional who can identify all the issues and their causes. Storm damage caused by extreme weather events like heavy thunderstorms, hail storms, or tornados is typically covered by insurance. Additionally, damage caused by fallen trees or limbs during a storm is also usually covered. It's important to document the damage with photos and get a roof inspection to support your insurance claim. The insurance company will then send an adjuster to evaluate the damage and determine if a full replacement is warranted. The age of your roof also plays a factor, as older roofs may not be covered by insurance. Understanding your insurance policy is crucial, as some policies may only cover a percentage of the repair costs or offer a depreciated value for replacement. Before filing a claim, ensure that your policy includes roof repairs and be aware of any deductibles or conditions that may apply.

Assess the damage to your roof

Assessing the damage to your roof is an important step in the roof replacement process. Here are some detailed instructions to help you assess the damage:

Exterior Inspection:

Firstly, examine the exterior of your roof. You can often spot obvious signs of damage from the ground using your naked eye or binoculars. Look for debris on the roof, such as fallen branches or tree limbs, which could have caused damage or might cause further issues if not removed promptly. Check for any holes, dents, or cracks on the roof shingles, as well as missing shingles or tile pieces. Keep an eye out for any signs of leakage, piles of granules, or loose shingles. Additionally, pay attention to the flashing (the material that seals joints on your roof); check if it is missing adhesive or appears distorted.

Interior Inspection:

After assessing the exterior, it's important to inspect the interior of your home for any signs of roof damage. Check your attic, ceilings, and walls for water damage, such as leaks, stains, or signs of mould or mildew. Water damage can lead to structural issues like rotting wood, so it's crucial to identify and address these problems early on. Blistering or peeling paint on your walls or ceilings could indicate poor ventilation, which may cause moisture issues.

Safety Precautions:

It is highly recommended that you do not climb onto your roof unless you have experience in roof repair. Getting onto a weakened roof structure can be dangerous and may cause further damage. If you're unsure, consult a professional roofer for advice and assistance.

Documenting Damage:

Take photographs of any damage you find, both to the exterior of the roof and any interior issues. These photos will be valuable when filing an insurance claim, as they provide evidence of the damage. It is also helpful to document the date and time of the damage and explain the circumstances, especially if there was a storm or natural disaster.

Professional Assessment:

Consider contacting a local roofing company or a qualified roofing contractor to conduct a professional inspection and provide you with repair or replacement estimates. They can assess the extent of the damage, identify hidden issues, and guide you through the insurance claim process.

Remember, regular roof inspections and maintenance are essential to preventing minor issues from becoming major problems. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help keep your roof in good condition and protect your home.

Understand the different types of insurance coverage

There are several types of insurance coverage, and understanding them is crucial for making informed decisions about protecting yourself and your assets. Here are the most common types of insurance coverage:

• Auto Insurance: This type of insurance is designed to protect you financially in the event of a car accident. It typically includes liability coverage for bodily injuries and property damage, as well as optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.
• Homeowner's Insurance: Homeowner's insurance covers financial losses related to your home and its contents due to events like fire, theft, or natural disasters. It also includes liability protection if someone is injured on your property.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance helps cover medical expenses, including hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, and medications. It can be obtained through employers, the government marketplace, or private insurance companies.
• Life Insurance: Life insurance provides financial security for your loved ones in the event of your death. It comes in two main types: term life insurance, which covers a set period, and permanent life insurance, which offers lifelong coverage and builds cash value over time.
• Long-Term Disability Insurance: This type of insurance provides income replacement if you become unable to work due to an injury or illness. It can be obtained through employers or purchased individually.
• Renters Insurance: Renters insurance covers losses or damage to personal belongings in a rental property due to events like fire, theft, or natural disasters. It also includes liability protection and additional living expenses coverage.
• Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage beyond what is offered by your auto, home, or renters insurance. It protects you from lawsuits and claims that exceed the limits of your primary insurance policies.

These are just some of the main types of insurance coverage available. Each type of insurance has its own unique features, optional coverages, and exclusions, so it's important to carefully review the details of any policy before purchasing it.

Know what your deductible is

When it comes to roof replacement, it's crucial to understand the concept of a deductible and how it affects your finances. A deductible is the amount you, as the homeowner, are responsible for paying before your insurance company steps in to cover the remaining costs. This means that if you receive an insurance payout for a new roof, you will first need to contribute your deductible amount, and the insurance company will then cover the remaining expenses.

It's important to note that the deductible for wind and hail damage might differ from your deductible for other types of damage. For instance, if you have a higher deductible for wind and hail damage, you could end up paying more out of pocket if your roof is damaged in a storm. Therefore, it's essential to clarify these details with your insurance agent to avoid unpleasant surprises.

When dealing with roof replacement, you should also be aware of two types of insurance policies: Actual Cash Value (ACV) and Replacement Cost Value (RCV). Under an ACV policy, the insurance company will provide you with the depreciated value of your roof at the time of the claim. This means that the payout may not be sufficient to cover the full cost of a new roof, and you will need to make up the difference out of your own pocket. On the other hand, an RCV policy covers the full or most of the cost of replacing your roof with a brand-new version. With this policy, you will receive an initial check for the actual cost value, and the insurance company will hold back the recoverable depreciation until you provide proof that the work has been completed as per the claim.

It's worth mentioning that roofing companies offering to pay your deductible are engaging in illegal practices and insurance fraud. While it may be tempting to accept such offers, especially if you have a high deductible, it's crucial to understand that these companies often use low-quality materials and labour, leading to potential issues with your new roof. Therefore, it's in your best interest to work with reputable roofing companies that operate with transparency and integrity.

File a claim at the right time

When it comes to filing a claim for roof replacement or repair, timing is crucial. Here are some key considerations to help you navigate the process effectively:

Understand your policy

Before filing a claim, it's essential to review your insurance policy to determine if you have coverage for roofing damage. Not all policies include roof repairs or replacements. Contact your insurance agent to request a copy of your policy if needed. Understanding your coverage will help you assess whether filing a claim is the right decision.

Assess the damage

Before filing a claim, thoroughly evaluate the damage to your roof. This assessment is typically done by a trained professional who can identify the specific issues and their causes. Extreme weather events, such as storms, heavy winds, hail, or fallen trees, are common reasons for roof damage and can strengthen your claim. Document the damage with photographs, including both exterior roof damage and any resulting interior damage. If possible, use a ladder or a drone camera to get clear and detailed images.

Act promptly

Once you have assessed the damage, don't delay in filing your claim. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. They will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage and determine if your claim is approved. Keep in mind that the process of getting your roof replaced through insurance can be lengthy, so starting the process promptly is essential.

Choose the right roofing contractor

Selecting a respected and reputable local roofing contractor is crucial. They will provide estimates for repairs or replacements, which are often required by insurance companies. Ensure the roofing company has a positive reputation for pricing and workmanship. Additionally, opt for a contractor with experience handling insurance claims, as they can guide you through the process and help you navigate any complexities.

Be cautious of scammers

Unfortunately, scammers often target communities that have experienced storms or other extreme weather events. Be vigilant and exercise due diligence when hiring a roofing contractor. Research the company, verify their licensing, and ask for reviews or references from previous clients. Avoid signing any contracts or making payments until you have thoroughly vetted the contractor and are confident in their legitimacy.

Maintain open communication

Stay in close communication with your insurance agent throughout the claims process. Provide them with any necessary documentation, such as photos, estimates, or other relevant information. They will guide you through the steps required by your insurance company to approve the claim. Once your claim is approved, your agent will assist in scheduling the repairs and facilitating payments.

Avoid scammers posing as roofing contractors

Roof repair scams are designed to defraud you by getting you to pay upfront or cash in on your insurance claim. They will either leave you with unfinished work or do a shoddy job. Scammers often pose as legitimate contractors and make false promises to repair your storm-damaged roof.

• Don't sign anything or pay upfront: If you suspect damage, contact your insurance company first. They will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Do not sign any contract or pay any money until the insurance company has assessed the damage.
• Get multiple estimates: Obtain at least three bids for your roofing project and compare prices. Be wary of extremely low bids, as these are usually too good to be true.
• Be cautious of door-to-door salespeople: Reputable roofing contractors do not need to knock on doors to find work. Be wary of anyone who approaches you in this manner, especially after a storm.
• Check credentials and reviews: Always verify the contractor's licenses and insurance. Check their reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau. Be cautious if they have multiple complaints or negative reviews.
• Ask for references: Request references from previous clients to assess the quality of their work, timeliness, and adherence to the budget.
• Get a written contract: Ensure you have a detailed written contract that outlines the cost, timeline, payment schedule, guarantees, and any other expectations. Do not leave any section blank.
• Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics: Be wary of contractors who pressure you to sign a contract immediately or demand a large deposit upfront. Take your time to make an informed decision.
• Do not pay in cash: Pay using a check or credit card. Do not pay the full amount or sign a completion certificate until the work is completed to your satisfaction and complies with local building codes.
• Be cautious of "storm chasers": These are contractors who follow severe weather events and target affected areas. They often lack the necessary credentials and insurance, and use high-pressure sales tactics.
• Research materials: Get quotes and project details from multiple roofers and research the roofing materials they plan to use. Be cautious of contractors who offer discounted "leftover" materials, as this could result in an inferior roof.

Frequently asked questions