Does My Roof Have Storm Damage?
Does my roof have storm damage? This is a frequently asked question that we get from homeowners.
What does storm damage look like?
Sometimes it can be obvious, such as loose or missing shingles.
Other signs could be dings or dents in the roof caused by hail stones.
Occasionally, granules laying on the ground or building up on the shingles could be a possible indicator as well.
If you think your roof has storm damage, contact your insurance company to determine if the damage is covered under your policy. Then get at least three estimates from reputable roofers in your community.
Professional roofing contractors are trained and experienced in damage assessment. A reputable roofer with personal integrity, such as Bryant Roofing and Repairs, will inspect the roof for damage and should tell you honestly if the roof needs replacing or not.
In many cases, the roof may just need a simple repair, and not need an entire replacement.
Another frequently asked question we get is, “Will my homeowner’s insurance policy pay for roof repairs after storm damage?”
Depending upon your insurance provider, your homeowner’s policy will typically cover true storm damage. Damage resulting from extreme weather conditions such as tornadoes, or thunderstorms that produce hail or heavy wind is usually approved by insurance. But an old worn-out roof most likely will not be covered for storm damage replacement, due to aging. Have your insurance adjuster come out and inspect the roof. If they approve the claim, then begin your search for a qualified roofing contractor.
We often hear homeowners say, “A roofer stopped by my house and told me I have storm damage.”
It’s never a good idea to hire a “storm chaser”, a term often used for roofers who knock on your door to inform you that your roof has possible storm damage. These individuals typically are not actual roofers but rather salesmen hired by a roofing company to canvass neighborhoods. They are trying to convince homeowners to file roof damage claims with their insurance company for quick, easy money. The roof may or may not actually have storm damage but they’re hoping you will take the bait!
If the claim is filed and they do end up replacing your roof, you may run the risk of the company disappearing after the check is cashed. If you have problems with the new roof you may not be able to find the company that you trusted to replace it. Always look for a roofing contractor who has been in your community for a long time, preferably several years. It shows they are most likely reputable, and experienced and will probably stand by their work. Companies that don’t establish a solid customer base in one area usually don’t stay at the same address for very long.
Homeowners often ask, “Should I let the roofer handle the claim for me?”
Oftentimes a roofing salesman will offer to “act on your behalf” with the insurance company. But what they are really doing is hiking up the price of the roof so they can make more money from your claim. You should never give anyone access to your insurance information, such as policy or account numbers. Always work with the insurance company yourself and don’t rely on roofing contractors to do the work for you. Remember, they are in it to make money and usually are not trying to protect your best interest!