Roof Insurance Claims Process: Understanding the Nuances

The roof insurance claims process can be confusing and complex. It helps to understand what to expect. As roofing contractors in Omaha, we are your biggest advocate. You should remember that your insurance company is in business to make money and sometimes that might mean they’ll work to deny your claim.

Below is are some steps to help you through the process of understanding the roof insurance claims process:

Step 1: Assess the storm damage.

Record the date of the storm, signs of damage you can see from the ground, and take pictures of any damage. Find ways to document that the storm happened. This includes searching for news stories and anything else that can document it the storm.

Step 2: Contact a reputable roofing contractor in Omaha.

If you’re in Omaha, Mutual Roofing is one of several honest, Omaha roofing companies to help assess your damage. Make sure your roofing contractor performs a full property inspection, including the roof, windows, siding, AC units, screens, concrete and all other exterior surfaces.

Tip: Avoid using a storm chaser because while their upfront may look good, they don’t offer warranties the same way that other Omaha roofing contractors may offer. They also don’t help you claim the full benefit of your insurance because they don’t supplement claims. Read here to learn why you should choose a roofing company that supplements.

Step 3: Read your insurance policy carefully then contact the claims department of your insurance carrier.

Have pictures on hand and the estimate from your roofing contractor. If the entire roof is being replaced, a statement of damage estimate must be given to your roofing contractor. This way, the roofing contractor can work on supplements, files for permits, and be on the same page as your insurance carrier.

Step 4: Request an insurance adjuster inspection.

Insist your roofing contractor is present during the adjuster inspection. Our role as your roofing contractor is to make sure the adjuster plays fair and provides you with a fair assessment in the roof insurance claims process. Remember, the insurance adjuster works for the insurance company and may have an incentive to deny your claim if they think they can. For most of the larger insurance companies, this is not the case.

Step 5: If your claim is denied, don’t worry.

The law allows you to meet with two insurance adjusters. If the claim is denied the first time, you get another chance. Remember, even a small amount of damage should result in an approved claim. Damage devalues your home and damage should be fixed soon. Unaddressed damage always causes more issues down the road.

Step 6: You get two separate payments when a claim is approved

The Actual Cash Value (ACV) is the first payment. (current value of those items in their damaged condition) The Replacement Cash value is the second payment. This payment accounts for the depreciation and is withheld from insurance companies until completion.  Make sure to work with a roofing contractor who doesn’t require a down payment or the depreciation allowance before you receive it- this may be a red flag indicator.

Step 7: Your roofing contractors starts working

All changes should be in writing and approved. No additional payment is due until all the repairs are complete. Once your project has passed a city inspection, you will have a chance to approve the job before making the final payment. Before handing over the payment, review the work and have the roofer sign a lien waiver.

What if my insurance company increases my rate after I file a claim?

When filing an insurance claim, remember most state laws prohibit insurance companies from canceling policies for filing claims in an “Act of God” storm damage situation. In the state of Nebraska, insurance companies cannot single you out for a rate increase. As a result, if the insurance company is going to raise rates, they have to raise everyone’s rates in your area. So if you don’t file a claim, your personal rate increase will pay for everyone else’s claim except for yours.

Choose A Reputable Roofing Contractor in Omaha

In conclusion, choose a roofing contractor who will advocate for the homeowner in the roof insurance claims process. Call (402) 889-3381 or use the contact form to get started!