If you’ve recently experienced roof damage due to severe weather, fallen branches, or unexpected circumstances, you may be wondering about your options for covering repair costs.

Thankfully, Black Anchor Roofing is here to walk you through the process from beginning to end. Read along as we go through the steps, and don’t hesitate to reach out if any questions come to mind.

What Types of Roof Damage Lead to Insurance Claims?

Roof damage is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face, especially following severe weather events. When your roof is damaged, it’s essential to assess the situation quickly and understand whether insurance coverage can assist with repair or replacement costs.

Below are some of the primary types of roof damage that often lead to insurance claims.

  • Wind damage
  • Hail impact
  • Falling trees or branches
  • Fire damage
  • Water damage from storms
  • Ice dam formation
  • Lightning strikes
  • Heavy snow or ice load
  • Torn or missing shingles

When any of these types of damage occur, navigating the insurance claims process can feel overwhelming. However, knowing the steps to take can ensure a smoother experience and help you get the coverage you deserve.

Let’s go over the steps of the roof insurance claims process, from assessing the damage to receiving compensation.

1. Document the Damage

Thorough documentation is critical. Take clear, high-resolution photos and videos from different angles, focusing on damaged areas. Note the date and time, as well as the type of damage. This evidence will be useful when filing your claim and when discussing the damage with your insurer.

2. Review Your Insurance Policy

Before proceeding, review your insurance policy to understand what types of roof damage are covered. Policies vary widely, and some may cover only certain types of damage.

Is Roof Insurance Different From Homeowner’s Insurance?

Roof insurance isn’t a separate policy. It’s usually included within your standard homeowner’s insurance policy. Homeowner’s insurance provides broad coverage for various aspects of the home, including the roof, in the event of specific, covered incidents.

Identify Policy Exclusions

Policy exclusions—i.e., issues that might not be covered by roof insurance—can include:

  • General wear and tear
  • Roof damage due to age or poor maintenance
  • Damage from pests, such as insects, birds, or rodents
  • Gradual leaks or water intrusion over time
  • Damage resulting from improper installation or faulty materials
  • Cosmetic damage, like minor granule loss on shingles
  • Damage due to negligence or lack of upkeep
  • Pre-existing damage or unrepaired issues from prior incidents
  • Mold, mildew, or algae growth due to prolonged moisture

Determine Your Deductible

You might’ve heard about deductibles, but you might not know what the term means if you haven’t filed a claim before. A deductible is the amount you, as the homeowner, must pay out-of-pocket toward a covered repair before your insurance coverage kicks in to cover the remaining costs.

3. Hire a Professional Roofer for an Assessment

Insurance companies will typically want a professional roof assessment to confirm the extent of your damage. A roofing contractor will perform a thorough inspection and provide you with a written report detailing the damage and an estimated cost of repairs or replacement.

After the assessment, ensure that your roofing contractor provides a detailed, itemized estimate. A well-documented estimate can support your claim, as it shows the necessary repairs and the costs associated with them.

4. File Your Insurance Claim

We recommend that you file your homeowner’s insurance claim as soon as possible. You might not realize it, but your insurance company may have specific timeframes within which you must report damage.

Provide your insurer with:

  • The photos and videos of the damage
  • Your contractor’s estimate and any other documentation you’ve gathered
  • A detailed description of the damage, including the date and cause
  • Any maintenance records or previous repair receipts, if applicable
  • Contact information for your roofing contractor
  • A completed claim form, if provided by your insurer
  • Records of any temporary repairs you made to prevent further damage, with receipts

5. Meet with Your Insurance Adjuster

Once your claim is filed, the insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage in person. Schedule this meeting promptly and coordinate with your roofing contractor if possible. The contractor’s presence can help ensure that the adjuster doesn’t overlook any damage or underestimate the repair costs.

6. Wait for the Claim Decision

After the adjuster’s inspection, the insurance company will review the findings, which typically takes several weeks. Many states require insurance companies to respond within a certain period, so check your state’s regulations to know when to expect a decision.

Will Your Claim Be Denied or Approved?

If the claim is approved, you’ll receive an estimate of the payout based on the adjuster’s report and the policy terms. If denied, review the denial letter to understand the reason and, if appropriate, consider your options for an appeal.

7. Review the Insurance Payout Details

Carefully review the settlement offer from your insurance company, including any line items for labor, materials, and other repair costs. Ensure that the offer aligns with the estimate from your roofing contractor.

What’s the Difference Between Replacement Cost Value and Actual Cash Value?

Policies often pay either Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV). RCV covers the cost to replace the roof without accounting for depreciation, while ACV subtracts depreciation, meaning you may receive less than the full replacement cost. Understanding this difference helps you manage any out-of-pocket expenses.

8. Negotiate if Necessary

If the settlement doesn’t cover what you believe is fair, don’t hesitate to negotiate. When your roof, livelihood, and peace of mind are at stake, you should always advocate for yourself. In this sort of scenario, you’ll submit additional documentation to justify your claim. You may want to consult your roofing contractor—they can provide expert input on any adjustments needed.

Let Black Anchor Roofing Assess and Repair Your Roof Damage

Homeowner’s insurance makes a world of difference when you wake up to discover a damaged roofing system. Having adequate coverage is one thing—knowing how to identify the damage and file the claim is another.

Roof damage comes in many forms—and we know how to identify it all. Let Black Anchor Roofing’s contractors be the team you call when you need assistance with your roofing insurance claim. We’ll make sure to document every last bit of damage so your insurer has the clearest picture possible. Call us at (410) 205-9562 to learn more about what we can do for you.