Many Clinton Township MI residents are clueless when it comes to filing a homeowners insurance claim for roof damage.

If this is also your top concern, worry no more.

We’ve created this blog to give guidance to all our readers. We outlined the process for roof damage insurance claims and everything else in between so that you would know where and how to start. And if you find this difficult, you can always depend on Clinton Township MI’s best roofers for hail damage inspections and insurance claims to get you through claiming without hassles.

Without further ado, let’s get right to it.

(Read Also: 5 Best Residential Roof Types and Styles for St Clair Shores This 2019)

What Are The Steps To Follow When Filing A Homeowners Insurance Claim For Roof Damage?

Filing a homeowners insurance claim for roof damage can get overwhelming. That is if you have no idea how to go about it.

We don’t want this to happen to anyone in need. Knowing the roof insurance claim processes help homeowners maximize their claims.

If you’ve experienced a terrible storm lately or would simply want to be prepared for unexpected times, these are the things that you need to follow:

Step #1: Gather Evidences

Yes, the first step starts with none other than yourself.

Since it’s your property, it’s imperative for you to gather as many pieces of evidence as possible. You can do this after the harsh weather condition has passed to make sure that it’s already safe for you to step out.

To document obvious signs of damages, you can take photos or videos. You may also jot down notes to remember where you exactly found these damages.

Why is this an important step? It’s useful when you’re filing a report to your insurance company. It can expedite the process because you already have documentation to present.

Step #2: Call Your Roofing Partner

Once you’ve gathered enough pieces of evidence through pictures and videos, you can move forward by calling your roofing contractor.

Report to them what the situation is like after the storm and share whatever evidence you’ve gathered. The next step is to schedule an inspection so that they can fully assess and determine what roofing services are needed.

While you’re at it, you can also talk to them about your plans to file for a roof damage insurance claim. Most licensed roofing companies are already familiar with the process and could even assist you in doing so.

Step #3: Schedule An Appointment With Your Insurer

Let your insurance provider know that you’re filing a homeowners insurance claim for roof damage by setting an appointment. Once you have set a schedule, make sure you bring all the necessary papers.

You can bring the photos along with other legal documents that you’ve signed in relation to your roofing insurance.

The insurance company will also schedule an inspection to verify all your reports. Then, once this has been completed, they will prepare your claims in accordance with the coverage of your insurance package.

Bonus tip: Review your insurance package to make sure that you wouldn’t miss out on anything. Before finalizing the contract with your insurance provider, ask for sample computation of the claims and redo the calculations on your own just to verify.

Step #5: Sign The Contract

The insurance company will prepare a contract as a sign that you have come to an agreement. Review this legal document carefully and then make sure all parties will sign it accordingly.

The roofing company shouldn’t proceed with any service unless the contract has been signed.

You also have to secure a copy for yourself so that you are covered regardless if an issue arises.

The contract contains the amount and/or coverage of your insurance claims. This will be the basis of the roofing contractor for their scope of work. They will only work within this scope. Otherwise, any additional or extra services will not be covered by the insurance anymore.

Step #6: Roofing Services

Discuss the timeframe and gameplan with your roofing company. They should also have a copy of the contract to make sure that all the services that they will provide are under the agreement.

You also have to be confident with your roofing partner as the life of your damaged roof depends on them. Make sure that your chosen roofing contractor is fully licensed and is located in your area.

In emergency cases, you have to expedite the process and let the roofing contractor start with the work immediately.

What Types of Damages Are Typically Covered?

Tornado twisted cottage house, trees, car and pieces of furniture.

You can never predict what’s coming at you but you can prepare for it by making sure that your property is insured from all possible natural calamities.

Roof insurance packages can vary depending on your location, state rulings, and the local policies. Also, there are insurance packages that are more comprehensive than others. It really depends on your service provider and the agreed on terms.

To give you an idea, we’ve identified some of the most common inclusions of a roof insurance policy.

Hailstorm Damage

Hail is a supernatural phenomenon that is destructive in nature. Depending on the wind intensity, hail pieces can scratch, puncture, pierce, and leave unpleasant marks on your roofing. Worst, it can create permanent holes.

Most roof insurance packages cover hail damages — which is a good thing. Although the not-so-good news about them is that they can go from minor to major cases prompting emergency repairs or replacements.

Wind Damage

Wind is a powerful element. Depending on the intensity, it has the capacity to completely tear off your roof. In some cases, it can blow huge branches or debris on your roof.

falling tree after a storm

In this photo, you’ll see how severe the wind damage is due to very strong winds. An entire tree was knocked down on a residential property.

Wind damages are usually included in roof insurance claims. Whether or not the damages seem serious, you still need to report it immediately for your own safety and peace of mind.

Water Damages

Water damages are extremely dangerous and destructive. You may not notice the signs of water damages because they can spread unknowingly for many weeks or months.

These damages can affect a tiny area of your roof. However, they can easily spread throughout the property. The water can crawl from the ceiling down to the walls and the flooring. Do not wait for it to proliferate because it can compromise the integrity of your house.

Common causes of water damages include hurricanes, flooding, leaks, etc.

Snowstorm Damage

Long heavy icicles posing an ice damage risk

Ice is a destructive element that can lead to serious water damages. Hence, it should be part of your insurance coverage.

People living in areas prone to snowstorms must make sure that this is part of the insurance policy.

Ice may come and go but it can leave very serious water damages. Hence, every after a terrible snowstorm, make sure you schedule an inspection with your roofing contractor.

Related: St. Clair Shores Home Tips: Best Type of Roof Options for Winter

Final Words

Filing a homeowners insurance claim for roof damage should be fast and efficient if you tapped the correct people. Hence, it’s really crucial to handpick the right roofing contractor and insurance provider. In times of need, they will be the one to support and make things happen for you.

Remember, if you have experienced a terrible weather condition like snowstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, etc., always reach out for help. Don’t just ignore the signs because it can get really dangerous and unsafe for you and your family.

For roof damages and other concerns, you can always count on Miller’s Home Improvement. We offer the best and highest-quality roofing services here in Clinton Township and the whole of Michigan. Dial this number and claim your free estimate: 248-266-4657.