Homeowners take certain comfort in the expression, “I am grateful I have a roof over my head.” That’s all well and good until a severe weather event threatens the one thing that you rely upon so heavily. When it comes to repairing your roof, there are multiple layers baked into the insurance claim cake. Let’s explore them here so you have a keen understanding of the steps to dealing with the insurance company as you determine whether you need to file a claim.
A Very Good Place to Start
Let’s start at the beginning. It would serve you well to maintain a properly documented file on the ongoing status of your roof. Whether you have a file containing comprehensive details about your roof or not, the insurance company will use photographs for their own purposes of justification, including the potential to deny parts or all of your claim. That being said, this is not meant to frighten anyone. It is simply wise to recognize your roof is a big-ticket item, and the insurance companies have been around your block a time or two. You will have to allow the insurance adjuster to perform an inspection before presenting you with an adjustment. That’s the catchy word for mitigating expenses.
Familiarize Yourself with the Plan and the Procedure
If you are not up to speed on what your insurance plan covers, it is time to pull it out and read it. It is advisable to contact your agent and go over the finer points of what is excluded because in the insurance world, if it is not excluded, it’s covered. Also, filing a claim after a weather event is time-sensitive as it relates to cause and effect. If you drag your feet on determining a legitimate claim, you can procrastinate yourself right out of the chance to have the repairs covered by your insurance company.
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