Insurance Claim Process

1. Initial Preparation Before Filing a Claim

Before starting the claims process, involve a trusted contractor to guide you. A knowledgeable contractor can provide insights into the extent of the damage and what steps to take next. Here's what you should do:

Contact Your Contractor First: Share your concerns with your contractor and schedule an inspection. They can assess the damage, take photos, and provide a detailed report to help you understand the situation.
Review Your Insurance Policy Together: Your contractor can help you interpret your policy to determine what is covered, any exclusions, and the deductible amount.
Gather Supporting Documents: Work with your contractor to collect:
- - Photos or videos of the roof (both pre-damage and current damage).
- - Maintenance or repair records.
- - Weather reports or other evidence of the event that caused the damage.
Get a Professional Opinion: Your contractor's assessment can help you decide whether filing a claim is the best course of action.

2. Deciding to File a Claim

If your contractor confirms that the damage warrants filing a claim, they can assist you with the next steps:

Consult Your Contractor: Before calling your insurance provider, discuss the damage with your contractor. They can provide an estimate and outline the repairs or replacement needed.
Understand Your Options: Your contractor can help you weigh the cost of repairs against your deductible and the potential impact on your insurance premiums.

3. Contacting Your Insurance Provider

When it's time to contact your insurance company, your contractor can continue to assist:

Notify Your Insurer: Call your insurance company to report the damage. Inform them that your contractor is available to discuss the damage in detail.
Provide Initial Information: Share details such as the date and cause of the damage, referencing your contractor's professional opinion and documentation.
Ask About the Claims Process: Request an overview of the claims process and confirm whether your contractor can be involved directly with the adjuster.

4. Inspection and Assessment

Schedule the Adjuster's Visit: Coordinate with your contractor to ensure they are present during the insurance adjuster's inspection.
Contractor's Role: Your contractor can walk the adjuster through the damage, provide their report, and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Customer's Role: Be present, if possible, to listen and ask questions.
Review the Adjuster's Report: After the inspection, compare the adjuster's findings with your contractor's assessment. Address discrepancies with your contractor and insurer.

5. Filing the Claim

Your contractor can help you compile and submit all necessary documentation:

Submit Supporting Documents: Provide photos, repair estimates, weather reports, and any other evidence your contractor has prepared.
Complete the Claim Form: Your contractor can guide you through filling out the claim form accurately to avoid delays.

6. Approval or Denial of the Claim

Approval: If the claim is approved, review the settlement offer with your contractor to ensure it aligns with the scope of work required.
Denial: If denied, your contractor can help you understand the reasons and assist in filing an appeal with additional evidence or expert testimony.

7. Starting Repairs

Temporary Repairs: If further damage is possible, your contractor can perform temporary fixes and document the work.
Final Repairs: Once the claim is approved, your contractor will begin the agreed-upon work. They can handle communications with the insurance company if supplemental claims are needed for additional damage discovered during repairs.

8. Payment Process

Initial Payment: The insurance company typically issues an initial payment based on the adjuster's report.
Supplemental Claims: If needed, your contractor can file for additional funds to cover unexpected repairs.
Final Payment: Ensure all invoices and receipts are submitted to your insurance company to receive the final payment.

9. Post-Repair Documentation

Final Walkthrough: Conduct a final inspection with your contractor to ensure the work meets your expectations.
Notify Your Insurer: Inform your insurance company that the repairs are complete and provide any required documentation.
Keep Records: Maintain all paperwork, including invoices, photos of the completed work, and proof of payment.

Why Involve Your Contractor Early?

They can simplify the claims process by providing expert guidance and documentation.
Contractors understand the language and requirements of insurance companies, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
Their involvement can save you time, reduce stress, and help maximize your claim's success.