Roof Damage Claim FAQs
What should I do if I experience roof damage?
The first thing you should do is hire a public adjuster to help you through the process. A certified public adjuster can help assess the situation or refer a professional to check for structural damage. Never leave your home and family up to chance. If you experienced a heavy storm that could have caused roof damage, or if your neighbors suffered roof damage after a storm, always have your roof checked thoroughly for any damage. You may need to have your roof temporarily fixed to mitigate damage during the insurance claims process. If you do so, document all damage before any work is done as you may need it for evidence later.
If I file an insurance claim, can my insurance company raise my rates or cancel my plan?
Laws can vary from state to state and each insurance company has different rules and regulations, but in most places an insurance company cannot cancel your policy or raise your rates due to an “Act of God.” However, an insurance company can increase rates for everyone in the affected area after a storm if they choose.
How can I tell if I have roof damage?
Roof damage can sometimes be very obvious, but often it is not. The most common signs of roof damage are missing or raised shingles, but damage from hail or wind-creased shingles are often not visible from the ground or to an untrained eye. If your area experiences heavy wind, hail or other extreme weather conditions, always hire a professional to inspect your roof for damage as soon as possible.
I have no structural damage, but some shingles seem bruised or bare. Should I still hire a public adjuster?
Yes, you should definitely hire a public adjuster. Heavy hail, wind or rain can take granules off shingles and leave them bare or appear bruised. Shingle damage can take the appearance of round or semi-circular dimples, or you may notice a high accumulation of shingle granules in your gutters. While this may seem like minor cosmetic damage, without proper granule coverage your shingles will not be protected from UV rays; causing premature aging of your shingles which can lead to leaks or mold.
What tests can be done to check for roof damage?
A wind up-lift test is commonly used to check for structural damage and if the roof has become separated from its sub surface attachment, thus making it more likely to up-lift off the house if more heavy wind conditions are experienced. A moisture survey can also be used to test for water damage to your roof and assess damages. Both tests should only be performed by a qualified professional with the proper equipment.
I think a storm may have damaged my roof, how long should I wait for my insurance company to make a claim?
Considering how integral a roof is to the structure of any building, time is of the essence in reporting and filing claims for roof damage as waiting longer will only make the damage worse. If your roof is damaged and left alone, it could be uplifted and removed by wind or collapse, which can increase losses by 80%. If you believe your roof may be damaged, you may have to make a decision to install a temporary or replacement roof before getting proper authority from your insurance company. This can impact the outcome of your claim, so document everything and consult a public adjuster to make sure you don’t miss anything or jeopardize your claims process.
If you have experienced roof damage or were recently hit by a heavy storm, call ALL RISK Public Adjusters to see how we can help you.
If you have experienced roof damage or were recently hit by a heavy storm, call ALL RISK Public Adjusters to see how we can help you.
