How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement (3 Tips)

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Getting a replacement can feel overwhelming when it’s:

• Damaged by storms
• Severe weather
• Other unexpected events

The good news? With the right approach, you can often get your insurance to cover most, if not all, of the cost of replacing your roof.

This step-by-step guide will break down everything you need to know to make the process clear and manageable. Follow these steps to give yourself the best chance at an approved claim and a brand-new roof.

Understand Your Insurance Policy

The first step in getting your roof replacement covered by insurance is understanding your homeowner’s insurance policy. Not all policies are the same, so it’s vital to know exactly what is covered and under what conditions.

Key Things to Look For:

• Coverage for Roof Damage: Check whether your insurance policy includes roof damage caused by storms, wind, hail, or other types of weather events.
• Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value: Some policies only cover the depreciated value of your roof (Actual Cash Value), while others cover the full replacement cost.
• Exclusions: Pay attention to exclusions. For example, roof damage caused by wear and tear or neglect is typically not covered.

If you’re unsure, call your insurance provider and ask them to explain what’s included in your coverage. This step will save you a lot of hassle later on and give you clarity around what to expect.

Act Quickly After the Damage Occurs

Time is of the essence when it comes to roof damage. Delaying action can lead to more damage to your property and a higher chance of your claim being denied due to negligence.

What to Do Immediately:

• Inspect Your Roof (Safely): If safe to do so, check for visible signs of damage like missing shingles, leaks, or structural concerns.
• Document the Damage: Take clear, dated photos and videos of the affected area. Be thorough—show all angles and zoom in on damaged areas to provide sufficient proof.
• Prevent Further Damage: Protect your home by covering exposed areas with tarps or boards. Insurance companies may deny your claim if they believe you didn’t take reasonable steps to prevent further issues.

Contact Your Insurance Provider (3 Tips)

Once you’ve documented the damage, it’s time to reach out to your insurance company. Calling them promptly shows that you’re proactive and serious about addressing the issue.

1) Provide Clear Details:

Be specific about what happened, including the date and cause of the damage (e.g., “a hailstorm on April 15th caused extensive damage to the roof”).

2) Ask About the Claims Process:

Your insurance company will walk you through the next steps, including any forms or documents they require.

3) Get a Claim Number:

This will be your reference point for all communications moving forward. Remember to remain calm, organized, and patient throughout your interactions with your insurance company.

Hire a Roofing Contractor for an Inspection

After contacting your insurer, hire a licensed roofing contractor to perform a professional inspection. This step ensures that all damages are properly assessed and seen by an expert. Plus, having a contractor in your corner can strengthen your case when dealing with the insurance adjuster.

What to Look for in a Roofing Contractor:

• Experience with Insurance Claims: Find a contractor who has experience helping homeowners file claims.
• Free Roof Inspection: Many contractors, including reputable ones like I Am Roofing, offer free inspections to identify damages and provide written reports.
• Local Expertise: Choose a local contractor familiar with your area’s weather and building codes.

The contractor will create a detailed report, including cost estimates, to support your claim.

Coordinate with the Insurance Adjuster

Once you file your claim, your insurance company will send an adjuster to evaluate the damage. They play a significant role in determining whether your claim is approved, so this is a crucial step in the process.

Tips for the Adjuster’s Visit:

• Have Your Contractor Present: A licensed contractor can speak directly to the adjuster, ensuring no damage goes unnoticed or unaccounted for.
• Show Your Documentation: Share your photos, videos, and contractor’s report to strengthen your case.
• Ask Questions: If the adjuster’s assessment differs significantly from your contractor’s, ask for clarification and be prepared to provide additional evidence.

Understand the Settlement Offer

After the adjuster concludes their evaluation, your insurance company will provide a settlement offer. This will outline how much they’re willing to pay for the roof replacement.

What to Do if You Disagree:

• Request a Reassessment: If the offer is lower than expected, you can request another inspection. Provide additional evidence to support your case.
• Hire a Public Adjuster (if necessary): Public adjusters are independent professionals who advocate for you by ensuring damages are accurately assessed.

Proceed with Repairs or Replacement

Once your claim is approved, you can start the roof replacement process. Choose a qualified roofing contractor—like I Am Roofing—who can deliver high-quality work while keeping the process smooth and stress-free.

What to Expect During Replacement:

• Timeline: Most roof replacements take just a few days, depending on the size and complexity of your roof. Your contractor will provide an estimated timeline.
• Communication: A good contractor will keep you updated throughout, ensuring you know when to expect crews, materials, and progress updates.
• Post-Project Inspection: Once the roof is replaced, ask your contractor to walk you through the completed work to make sure everything meets your expectations.

Enjoy Your New Roof—and Stay Proactive Moving Forward

With your new roof in place, you can rest easy knowing your home is well-protected. But this isn’t the end of the story! Maintaining your roof can help you avoid similar issues in the future and keep your home in top shape.

Maintenance Tips:

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Aim for at least one professional inspection per year (or after major storms).
• Clean Your Gutters: Keep gutters clear to prevent water damage to your roof.
• Trim Nearby Trees: Overhanging branches can damage shingles during storms and lead to problems.

Common Questions About Insurance and Roof Replacement

We’re breaking down every single question you might have about your roof insurance claim.

Q. Will my insurance cover any damage to my roof?

A. This depends on your policy and the cause of the damage. Most policies cover sudden, unexpected damage (like storms) but don’t include wear and tear.

Q. Do I have to pay a deductible?

A. Yes—most insurance policies require you to pay a deductible before coverage kicks in. This amount varies depending on your plan.

Q. Can I choose my own contractor?

A. Absolutely! While insurance companies may recommend contractors, the choice is entirely yours. Hiring a reputable local company like I Am Roofing ensures quality work.

Q. What if my claim gets denied?

A. You can appeal the decision by providing additional evidence, hiring a public adjuster, or even consulting an attorney if necessary.

Why Choose I Am Roofing?

Navigating insurance claims for roof replacement can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. At I Am Roofing, we specialize in simplifying the process and delivering beautiful, durable roofs for our clients.

When you work with us, you’ll get:

• Expert Support: Our team knows the ins and outs of insurance claims and is ready to guide you every step of the way.
• Free Inspections: Get a thorough evaluation of your roof at no cost to you.
• High-Quality Workmanship: Our experienced contractors use only top-grade materials for every project.
• Outstanding Customer Service: Your satisfaction is our priority!

If you’re dealing with roof damage and need a trusted partner, don’t wait—contact us today.

Get Started Now!

Call I Am Roofing or request a free roof inspection online. Together, we’ll protect your home and give you the peace of mind you deserve.