You should file a roof insurance claim when your roof has significant damage caused by a covered event in your policy, such as hail, wind, or fallen trees. Skyline Contracting helps you identify damage and explains if filing a claim makes sense.
Should I File a Roof Insurance Claim? What Homeowners Need to Know
Filing a roof insurance claim can be stressful, but the experience is made worse if your claim is denied. While it’s important to act quickly to repair your roof when it becomes damaged, it’s also a good idea to take time to assess your situation and make an educated choice about whether to file. So, how do you determine if you should file a roof insurance claim?
At Skyline Contracting, our team has years of experience in roof repair, most commonly for storm damage. We’re well-versed in the ins and outs of storm damage restoration, and we’ve put together some recommended steps for homeowners to take before contacting their insurance company.
When Filing a Roof Insurance Claim Makes Sense
Not all roof damage warrants an insurance claim or a new roof. Generally speaking, filing a claim makes the most sense when your roof sustains sudden and severe damage. Signs of significant roof damage include:
- Cracked or broken shingles
- Missing or loose shingles
- Significant dents to soft metals like gutters or fascia
- Damage to other parts of your home’s exterior, such as your deck or siding
- Excess asphalt granules in your gutters or near downspouts
If damage is minor, on the other hand, you may decide it’s not worth filing a claim. In some cases, your insurance may not provide enough for the claim to be worth the hassle of going through the claims process. In addition, while your insurance rates should not increase if your claim is denied altogether, filing repeated claims for minor damage could impact your premiums.
Before making a final determination, however, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection and consultation with a professional roofer.
How Your Roof Insurance Policy Affects Coverage
The decision of whether to file a roof insurance claim will also depend on your insurance policy. This is because different policies will cover different types of damage, and they will also take different approaches to giving homeowners a payout for an approved claim.
One of the most fundamental policy distinctions is whether you have Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV) insurance.
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies cover the full cost to replace your roof, minus your deductible.
- Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies pay only the depreciated value of your roof, which may leave you covering more out-of-pocket.
For Gainesville homeowners, where storms are frequent, most insurance policies should cover storm-related roof damage. However, exclusions and conditions apply—especially if your roof is older or hasn’t been well-maintained.
Steps in the Roof Insurance Claim Process
Should you decide to move forward with an insurance claim, here’s what you can expect from the process:
- Initial Documentation: Photos, written notes, and a roofer’s report can help strengthen your case before insurance gets involved.
- Insurance Roof Inspection: An insurance adjuster will assess the extent of damage to your roof.
- Decision: The insurer approves or denies coverage based on policy details and damage assessment.
- Completion of Work: Your roofer completes repairs or a roof replacement, depending on the state of your roof.
- Final Payout: The remainder of your insurance payment (if you’ve been approved) will be disbursed.
If your roof has been damaged by storms in Gainesville, Skyline Contracting can help document damage to your roof. Our professional insurance roof inspections include a detailed assessment, photo evidence, and expert opinions on the state of your roof—and next steps.
Roof Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid
If you haven’t gone through the insurance claim process before, there are a few potential pitfalls that homeowners should be aware of and avoid. Common mistakes include:
- Waiting too long to report damage
- Attempting DIY repairs can interfere with the documentation of damage
- Failing to document damage entirely
- Not reviewing your policy before filing
Get a Professional Roof Inspection in Gainesville
Before filing a roof insurance claim, the best first step is always to contact a trusted local roofer. While our team at Skyline Contracting can’t help you file your insurance claim, our thorough inspection process includes photo documentation of damage, and our team will help you make an educated decision on whether filing a claim is worth the effort.
Storm season is just about every season here in Gainesville. If your roof is damaged, reach out to Skyline Contracting for a comprehensive inspection!
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional insurance advice. For specific advice related to your insurance policy or claim, please consult with your insurance provider or a licensed insurance professional.