How To File A Roof Damage Insurance Claim

Schedule A Roof Inspection

The first step toward filing a roof damage claim is to have a roof inspection performed by a reputable, independent inspector. This should be done as soon as possible after the damage has occurred, but no repairs should be made at this time. Also, remember that a good inspector won't pressure you to sign anything before or after an inspection. A roof damage claims attorney in Orlando can help you find one.

Find Out What Your Policy Covers

To find out whether the roof damage is covered by your homeowners’ insurance, check the policy paperwork. There are many factors that determine what’s covered and what isn’t, such as:

• Age of the roof;
• Cause of the damage; and
• The geographic location of your home.

If you’ve read through the policy but still have questions or are unsure about what’s covered, call the insurance company. A representative will explain the policy and answer your questions. Make a note of any communication with the insurance company. A roof damage attorney would use it to support your insurance claim.

When the time comes to file an official insurance claim, give the following details to your homeowners’ insurance company:

• Date and time of the damage;
• Policy number;
• List of any damaged items in the home; and
• Documentation of the damage, such as photos and/or video.

Once the claim is filed, the insurance company will put a claims examiner on the case and give you a claim number, which you should keep among your records.

Provide Documentation For Your Claim

The more proof of damage you can provide to the insurance company, the better supported the claim will be. An Orlando roofing lawyer with the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. can help determine what documentation you need.

Photos

Periodically taking photos of the roof and home’s exterior is a great way to have “before” photos in stock in case damage occurs. New photos should be taken after any maintenance or repairs. Then, if there is an incident, take photos of the damage to the roof and exterior when it’s safe to do so.

Receipts

Save every receipt given to you by contractors and roofing companies after repairs are complete. This includes purchase orders and contractual paperwork.

Claims Adjuster Roof Inspection

The insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to your roof damage claim. This person's job is to verify the damage occurred as stated in the claim. Offer to share any photos or video of the damage with the claims adjuster and, if possible, have the independent roof inspector meet with them. Claims adjusters are trained to look for the same things inspectors take note of. They'll likely take many photos and write a report detailing the findings. After receiving the report, the insurance company decides whether to approve the claim.

If your claim is denied, contact the home insurance lawyers with the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. to appeal the decision. Our lawyers have years of experience taking on insurance companies and securing just settlements for our clients.