Help Processing a Roofing Insurance Claim in El Paso TX
We will guide you through the claims process, we offer a free, no obligation inspection by trained professionals to determine the scope of your storm damage. We will meet with your adjuster and work with your insurance company to ensure all necessary damages are covered by your carrier.
Some important questions to be asking during this process are:
How do I know if I have hail damage?
Hail damage to your roof is not visible from the ground and can be difficult to recognize if you are not a trained professional. There can be obvious damages such as dents in soft metals (i.e. gutters, downspouts, aluminum siding, fascia, etc.) and holes or breaks in vinyl siding. However, it is recommended that a trained professional inspect your roof.
What problems can arise from hail damage?
Hail can impact asphalt shingles by loosening, fracturing, or removing granules. Over time, the hail impacted areas will expand and contract with seasonal temperature changes and create additional deterioration and granular loss. An absence of granules will result in no protection of the matting from sunlight, which will cause premature aging, possible leaks, and mold. The results of hail damage will also void the shingle warranty.
How many estimates do I need?
It is not necessary to get more than one estimate. Roger Romero Roofing is experienced in working with all insurance companies and will make sure that you will not pay anything out of your pocket except your deductible. If a contractor gives you an estimate for less than the pricing determined by your insurance provider, you will not receive the difference. If we determine the repairs cost more than the pricing determined by your insurance provider, we will work with your insurance company to make sure they cover any additional costs.
What is the deductible?
Your deductible is a set dollar amount pre-arranged with your insurance company at the time you signed your policy which you are required to pay to complete your insurance claim. In most cases, deductibles are an even dollar amount: $250, $500, $1000. However, recently, some companies have switched to a percent value of your home or percent value based on the length you’ve had your policy. We can help determine your deductible with you if you’re still unsure.
Will my insurance premium increase if I file a claim?
Typically your premium will not increase because the damage to your home is the result of a natural disaster which was beyond your control. Rates are often determined based on the number of claims in the area, not based on your claim specifically.
What is my time frame for filing a claim?
Some insurance companies have a limited claim period. Typically, if you have all repairs completed within one year without filing a claim, they are not required to fully indemnify you for your loss. You should file a claim as soon as possible to make certain that all work will be completed before the insurance deadline and to prevent any additional damage.
If you have already filed your claim, be sure to check your time frame for completing work. Each claim and each company is different. If you think you’ll need more time to make your decisions, call your insurance company and request an extension. Most companies offer a one-time per claim six month extension period.
What exactly does my insurance company pay for?
Initially, your insurance adjuster will give you an estimate to repair what he/she sees as damaged on your property: roofing, siding, fascia, gutters, windows, wraps, personal property. When getting an inspection, our experienced representatives are trained to find what your adjuster may have missed and help get your property fixed properly. Your insurance company will ultimately compensate you for repairs that are actually completed at your property based on the assessment and confirmation of damage from the storm or disaster.
Depending on how your policy is written, you may be entitled to additional repairs based on city codes. Some of these codes include felt and ice and water barrier on your roof or moisture barrier behind your siding.
A common misconception with insurance claims is that all of the money is the homeowner’s. As nice as that sounds, that’s incorrect. A homeowner is initially responsible for getting the repairs handled in a timely manner and payments issued to the contractor or repairperson. In many cases, you’ll receive several checks from your insurance company. Be sure to keep track of any funds you receive and allow a general contractor to assist in the process. If you choose to not have something repaired from your claim, your insurance company has the ability to not cover that item during the next claim.