Submitting an insurance claim on your roof may seem like a simple decision, especially if you’re like one of the many Americans who don’t have an emergency fund established to pay for major housing expenses. In this article, we examine the pros and cons of relying on the insurance system for a roofing claim and what to expect after you decide.
The Pros of Submitting an Insurance Claim on Your Roof
Submitting an insurance claim on your roof is a good idea if you know you don’t have the funds to pay for it outright. You may still have to pay something out-of-pocket through your deductible, but that’s a much more affordable proposition than springing for the entire thing yourself.
Another pro of submitting an insurance claim on your roof is that it allows you to get a better roof than you might be able to afford on your own. If the insurance company is covering the cost of a new, high-quality roof for your home, then it may well be worth submitting the claim so that you can benefit from a stronger and more durable roof that will protect your home longer.
The Cons of Submitting an Insurance Claim on Your Roof
Less money out-of-pocket and a fancier roof than you could afford on your own: what’s not to like? Well, there are some potential cons that you should be aware of on the front end. First of all, you’re probably going to see a rise in your insurance rates once filing a claim. That’s just the way it goes – insurers tend to penalize customers for making claims, even if those claims are totally legitimate.
Second, you may have a hard time getting your claim approved in the first place. If your insurance company decides that the damage to your roof isn’t severe enough to warrant a full replacement, then you’re going to be back to square one. Lastly, you could find yourself risking the cancellation of your policy.
That risk is higher if you’ve submitted multiple claims over a short period of time. It’s also a possibility if you’ve reached your deductible and attempting to submit what the insurance company deems to be unnecessary claims.
When to Submit an Insurance Claim on Your Roof
Many homeowners are unsure of when to submit an insurance claim on their roof. However, there are a few general guidelines that can help. First, if your roof is more than 20 years old, it may not be worth submitting a claim. That’s because the cost of repairs or replacement may exceed the value of your policy.
Additionally, if only a small portion of your roof is damaged, it may be more cost-effective to pay for repairs out-of-pocket. However, if the damage was caused by a covered event, such as a severe storm, you will likely be able to file your claim successfully. If you are unsure, you can always consult with your insurance agent for more guidance.
How to Submit an Insurance Claim on Your Roof
When making a claim on your insurance for damage to your roof, the first step is to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Typically, you will need to provide details about the damage and documents showing ownership of the building where the damage occurred.
Once your claim is submitted, it will be reviewed by an adjuster with experience in estimating the cost of repairs for roofs. Depending on the type of leak or damage that has occurred, you may also be asked to provide pictures or documentation of previous work that has been done on your roof.
Once all of this information has been evaluated, your provider will assign a repair team to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs, and they will also work with you to determine an agreeable repair plan and schedule. Overall, submitting an insurance claim on your roof is a relatively straightforward process as long as you keep good records and act quickly.
Maintaining Your Roof to Prevent the Need for an Insurance Claim
An ounce of prevention, of course, is worth a pound of cure. Protecting your roof to the best of your abilities will reduce the probability of needing to submit a claim. That means doing the necessary repairs or paying for a professional inspection before it gets to the point of no return. It
Avoid potential hazards as much as possible. Keep gutters clean from overflowing debris. Pay attention to the signs of wear and tear on your roof, both inside and out. That means watching for leaks in the ceiling, cracks in the walls, and a musty smell.
External signs might include missing or damaged shingles, discoloration, and sagging. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a professional right away. A damaged roof can lead to serious problems like water damage, mold growth, and structural instability. By being vigilant, you can help to ensure that your roof stays in good condition for years to come.
Do You Need a New Roof?
Roof repair versus replacement: are you concerned over which one you need? Trust the expertise of professionals before self-diagnosis. Contact Molandes Roofing today if you have concerns you’re not sure about, or you just need a little extra guidance on whether to file a claim. We’re here to help.