Don’t Face Storm Damage Alone
After a severe storm rolls through Boise, the last thing any homeowner wants to discover is damage to their roof. Missing shingles, leaks, or dents from hail can be incredibly stressful. The process of filing a roofing insurance claim can feel just as overwhelming. Understanding your policy, documenting the damage, and coordinating with adjusters and contractors is a complex task. This guide is designed to simplify the process, providing a clear, step-by-step approach to help you navigate your roofing insurance claim with confidence and secure the fair settlement you deserve.
Did You Know?
- Most homeowner’s insurance policies in Idaho cover roof damage from specific events like wind, hail, fire, or falling objects, but not from general wear and tear or neglect.
- Insurance companies are often hesitant to provide policies for roofs that are over 20 years old, which can impact your ability to get coverage for storm damage.
- It is highly recommended to have a professional roofing contractor present when the insurance adjuster inspects your roof. This ensures all damage is properly identified and documented from an expert’s perspective.
- You are not obligated to accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer. If it seems too low, you have the right to negotiate for a fair amount that covers all necessary repairs.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful Roof Claim
Filing an insurance claim can be a methodical process. Following these steps can help protect your property and ensure you have the evidence needed for a successful outcome.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety & Conduct an Initial Assessment
Your safety is the top priority. After a major storm, check for downed power lines or other immediate hazards before inspecting your property. Once it’s safe, conduct a visual inspection of your roof from the ground. Use binoculars to get a closer look at shingles, flashing, and vents for any obvious signs of damage. Inside your home, look for water stains on ceilings or peeling paint, which are clear indicators of a roof leak. Acting quickly to spot these issues is critical.
Step 2: Document Everything Meticulously
Thorough documentation is the cornerstone of a strong insurance claim. Take clear, detailed photos and videos of all damage before any temporary repairs are made. Capture a variety of shots: wide-angle photos of the entire roof, plus close-ups of damaged shingles, dents, and any debris. Don’t forget to photograph interior damage as well. Make notes on the date and time of the storm that caused the damage. This evidence will be invaluable when communicating with your insurer.
Step 3: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Before contacting your insurance company, it’s wise to call a reputable local roofing contractor for a professional inspection. An experienced roofer can identify damage that isn’t visible from the ground, such as hail impacts that have compromised the integrity of your shingles. They will provide a detailed report and a professional estimate for the repairs, which serves as a crucial baseline for your claim. If you’ve experienced sudden, severe damage, you may need emergency roof repair services to prevent further water intrusion while you start the claims process.
Step 4: Review Your Policy and File the Claim
Take a moment to review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand your coverage, deductible, and any specific exclusions. Most standard policies in Idaho cover damage from wind and hail. Once you have your professional inspection report, contact your insurance provider promptly to initiate the claim. You will be given a claim number—keep this handy for all future correspondence.
Step 5: Meet the Adjuster (With Your Contractor)
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. It is highly recommended to have your chosen roofing contractor present for this meeting. Your contractor can point out all documented damage, speak the same technical language as the adjuster, and ensure nothing is overlooked. This collaboration helps ensure an accurate and comprehensive assessment, which is critical for a fair settlement for your roof repairs or potential replacement.
Step 6: Understand and Negotiate the Settlement
After the adjuster’s inspection, you will receive a settlement summary. This document will detail the scope of approved repairs and the funds allocated. This paperwork can be confusing, often using terms like RCV (Replacement Cost Value) and ACV (Actual Cash Value). Your contractor can help you decipher this document and verify that the scope covers all necessary work. If the initial offer seems insufficient, don’t hesitate to negotiate. You can use the estimates from your contractor as leverage to ensure the settlement is adequate for a complete and proper roof replacement.
Need Help With Your Roofing Insurance Claim?
The insurance process can be complicated, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Silverlining Roofing & Exteriors is experienced in working with insurance companies to ensure our Boise-area clients get the coverage they need for a quality roof restoration.
The Silverlining Roofing Advantage in Boise
Living in the Treasure Valley means dealing with a unique mix of weather conditions that can take a toll on your roof. From intense summer sun and high winds to heavy snow and surprise hailstorms, your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Wind damage is one of the most common claims in our area, with microbursts capable of tearing shingles right off your roof. Hail can cause subtle but serious damage, compromising the integrity of your shingles and leading to future leaks. At Silverlining Roofing & Exteriors, we understand the local climate and what it takes to restore your roof properly. We specialize in navigating the roof insurance claim process, providing detailed inspections and advocating for you to ensure a fair and complete settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I call a roofer before I call my insurance company?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have a trusted, local roofing contractor inspect the damage first. They can provide an unbiased, expert assessment of the damage, which helps you determine if filing a claim is necessary and gives you crucial documentation to support it.
What if my insurance claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, don’t give up. Carefully review the rejection letter to understand the reason. You can often appeal the decision by gathering additional evidence, such as a more detailed report from your roofing contractor, and submitting it to your insurer.
Will my insurance premiums go up if I file a roof claim?
Filing a single claim, especially for storm damage (which is considered an “act of God”), does not always result in a premium increase. However, multiple claims in a short period may affect your rates. It’s best to check with your insurance agent about their specific policies.
How long do I have to file a claim in Idaho?
While Idaho law may provide a few years to file a lawsuit for property damage, your insurance policy likely has a much shorter deadline for filing a claim—often just one year from the date of the damage. It is crucial to act quickly.
What’s the difference between Actual Cash Value (ACV) and Replacement Cost Value (RCV)?
ACV is the value of your roof today, with depreciation factored in. RCV is the cost to replace your roof with new, comparable materials without a deduction for depreciation. RCV policies provide better coverage, but even then, the insurance company typically pays the ACV first, and the remaining amount (depreciation) is released after the work is completed and you provide proof of payment. Your contractor can help you understand your policy’s specifics.