Storms happen all the time and we rarely ever pay attention to the damage they cause. The fact of the matter is, just because we don’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there. Hail for instance, can create holes in your roof that are hard to spot unless you are up there. That’s where Renowned Building Solutions comes in.
Most homeowners are too busy to examine all the little nooks and crannies of their home’s exterior for damage. However, these tiny dents and holes can become a much larger problem later. Luckily, an experienced roof contracting company in McHenry, IL, can help you through the storm damage insurance claims process. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the storm damage insurance claim process a little better.
What Are Some Signs of Storm Damage to Watch Out For?
So, a storm just hit your neighborhood, and you are worried about damage. Here are some telltale signs that a storm has damaged your home:
- Foliage from trees
- Missing shingles
- Broken windows
- Small dings on the gutters or downspouts
- Spatter on the windows, decking or fence
You can spot all these problems without even going on your roof. Make sure to document as much damage as possible. Take plenty of photos, so you have them when it comes time to file a claim.
Should I Call a Roofing Company or the Insurance Company First If I Find Damage?
Don’t call the insurance company right after a storm. Doing so will put you at risk of not getting all the coverage you deserve. You need an expert on your side that understands the full extent of the damage and can advocate on your behalf to the insurance adjuster.
Instead, call Renowned Building Solutions the minute you notice any potential damage. We will inspect your roof for no cost and take photos and written documentation of any damaged areas we find. Our team will determine whether there is enough damage for you to utilize your storm damage insurance. If we decide that you have enough damage to file a claim, we will be there to meet with the insurance representative when they come out to assess the damage.
What Steps Do I Take if I Want to File Storm Damage Insurance Claims?
Filing a claim through insurance is the responsibility of the property owner. If you wait too long, the chances of getting a settlement from your storm damage claim decrease. It is important to note that it is not required for an insurance company to look for damage just because there was a storm in the neighborhood. Consult a professional roofing contractor in McHenry to inspect for damage before going to the insurance company.
How Do Insurance Adjusters Determine How Much Money I’ll Get?
The insurance company will determine the value of the storm damage claim. The decision is based on the age of the roof and the significance of the damage. Insurance adjusters will do a walkthrough of the home’s ground level first. They’ll look at the siding, deck and fencing for damage. Then, they’ll go onto the roof and mark any damage area with chalk. They’ll draw a 10×10 square on the roof and count how many dings or missing shingles are in the space. Then, they’ll multiply that number to determine what they’ll pay.
It’s so important to contact a professional like Renowned Building Solutions to find every bit of damage possible to make sure it matches up with what the insurance finds. Keep in mind the amount of the settlement that’s determined may end up being less than it will cost to provide a new roof. Though, these numbers can be negotiated.
Inspectors will look at the windows, siding and fences to determine how much they’ll pay.
Will My Insurance Company Cover the Full Expense of a New Roof?
Insurance will cover any damage that is due to a naturally occurring accident, such as hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, or falling debris. Now, things might change if an entire area or zip code is affected by a storm. While the insurance company will still pay, premiums might increase the more homes that are damaged.
How Many Estimates Should I Get?
Everyone wants to find the best price when it comes to home repairs. However, when it comes to storm damage, looking for a cheaper price isn’t always the best option. The home insurance company is going to allow/give a certain amount of money for the project, no matter what. It’s better to search for a trustworthy contractor that’ll work with you throughout the process rather than look for whoever’s cheaper. The right roofing team will work within your budget or negotiate with the insurance company to ensure all damage is repaired.
What if I Want to File My Own Storm Damage Claim?
You could file your own home insurance storm damage claim, but it is highly recommended that you consult an expert. There are many things you could miss without having a trained eye for storm damage. Someone who is experienced in this subject is more familiar with the terms and conditions of insurance policies and is much more qualified to acquire the best settlement possible in the unfortunate circumstances.
The Insurance Denied My Claim. What Should I Do?
The worst has happened; your insurance company denied your claim. Don’t panic; not all hope is lost. If you believe the coverage was denied for the wrong reasons, you can request a re-inspection. Be sure to work with your contractor during this process. They’ll work with getting you another inspection, go to the appraisal stage, or help start litigation.
Get the Extra Help You Need with Storm Damage Insurance Claims
While our team will be there to help you through the process, it is your responsibility to prevent further damage to the house. So, make sure to take as many pictures as possible to document the damage right after it occurred. You also might want to consider tarping the entire house so no more water, hail or wind can affect it.
If you have recently had a storm in your area, call Renowned Building Solutions today. We specialize in roofing, gutters, siding, and window services throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana and North Carolina. Call 844-736-6961 to get a free estimate!
Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published on May 3, 2021 and updated on September 27, 2022.
