Roofing insurance can be difficult to navigate, given that each situation is so different. Roofing damage can occur for various reasons, including severe storms, extreme temperatures, lack of maintenance, and old age. Each roof comes with a different story, given how well the roof installation was handled, the roofing material, and if it’s been well maintained.
When roofing damage strikes, it can be very stressful for the homeowner, given the gravity of roof repair expenses. The reality is that your Athens home needs a dependable roof, which means you’ll need to pay whatever it costs to get it repaired. While this can be a hard pill to swallow, unresolved roofing damage can compromise the structural integrity of your home, costing much more down the line. Fortunately, Perimeter Roofing Athens has extensive experience working with insurance companies, and we’re here to give you tips on filing insurance claims. If you’re prepared for roofing damage, which can strike at any time, it will give you better peace of mind when destruction arrives.
Types of Roofing Material
If you’re familiar with the types of roofing materials, you can be more knowledgeable on the advantages and disadvantages they’re prone to.
Asphalt Shingles: The most affordable, common type of roofing material. Asphalt shingles can be repaired by section, which can make repairs less expensive.
Wood Shingles: These require heavier maintenance, which means costly repairs and insurance policies.
Outdated Material: If you have a material not in production anymore, you may have to replace your whole roof.
Metal Roofing: The most common issue with metal shingles is roof leaks. This can be caused by improper installation and failure to install sealants and caulking.
Concrete and Clay Roofing: These shingles are durable and long-lasting, but expensive to install.
Synthetic Shingles: Have an affordable installation, but may not last as long.
Know Your Insurance Policy
It’s important that you know your insurance policy, given that company policies vary. Homeowner’s insurance typically covers weather-induced damage, but will not cover damage caused by a lack of maintenance. This means that if your roof was struck by a hurricane or other tropical storm, insurance will likely cover it if you can provide evidence of damage. With damage caused by older age, weather erosion, or leaks, you will likely have to cover roof repair or replacement costs. If you live on the coast, or a region prone to severe weather, you may pay extra for hurricane insurance. It’s important that you evaluate the protection of your insurance policy in regards to your location and roofing material.
Roofing Tip
Another way to prepare for roof damage is to winterize your roof. This includes thoroughly inspecting your flashing, caulking, downspouts, and gutters, trimming low-hanging branches, insulating the attic, and getting a professional roofing inspection. Carrying out these steps will help prepare your roof for extreme temperatures and strong winds year-round.
Inspect Damage Immediately
When damage does occur, you need to move quickly. Inspect all exterior and interior damage to your roof, taking pictures along the way. Before you contact insurance, have a roofing contractor come to assess the damage. This is important, as they’ll be honest with you about the extent of the damage, while insurance agents may skirt around issues. Thoroughly document the process, so that you have evidence of all damage. Once this is completed, it’s time to contact your insurance agent.
Steps When Filing an Insurance Claim
- Be honest about roofing damage. Show evidence of damage through pictures and data.
- Have a roofing insurance agent provide an inspection.
- Review their assessment, then contact your roofing company.
- Develop a plan through both your insurance and roofing company for roof repair or roof replacement.
Make sure that you receive the coverage you’re owed. This may mean that you have to be firm with your insurance company, which should work if you’re knowledgeable on what your policy covers. To prepare for future weather issues, ensure that you have the correct insurance plan, and winterize your roof before the cold months. If you would like a free roofing inspection, contact Perimeter Roofing Athens for thorough roof repairs and excellent service. Our locations are spread across the southeast: GA, TN, FL, and AL!