22November 2024
Has your roof been damaged by a recent storm? Roof damage can be daunting, especially if this is your first time going through the insurance claims process. To give you some peace of mind, we have crafted this article to give you insight into the claims process for roof damage here in New Jersey, as well as some tips to ensure the process moves forward swiftly. Let’s get started.
Key Takeaways
- Conduct a visual inspection for missing shingles, leaks, sagging areas, or debris damage without climbing onto the roof. Hire a professional like TA Hughes for a thorough assessment.
- Review your insurance coverage for included perils, deductibles, policy limits, and exclusions to ensure the roof damage is covered.
- Take detailed photos and videos of the damage, including timestamps and receipts for temporary repairs, to support your claim.
- Notify your insurer promptly with your policy details, damage description, and any protective measures you’ve taken to avoid claim delays.
- Work with a reputable roofing contractor for inspections, damage validation, and expert repairs or replacement to maximize your claim and protect your home.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Once the storm has passed, the first step is to evaluate the extent of the damage to your roof. You can do this visually—going onto the roof when there’s damage is dangerous. You will need to have a good understanding of the damage and where it’s located prior to filing a claim.
Here are some damages to keep a look out for:
- Missing or damaged shingles, including cracks, curls, or granule loss.
- Leaks or water stains that visible on ceilings, walls, or in the attic.
- Sagging areas indicating structural issues.
- Debris damage caused by branches, hail, or other materials.
Step 2: Understand Your Insurance Coverage
Do you know your insurance policy and what’s covered? In New Jersey, homeowner’s insurance will cover most of the damage to a roof that has been kept in good condition. That said, it’s still wise to review your policy and write up any questions about it if you have them.
Be sure to review the following sections prior to calling the insurance company:
- Covered perils: Most policies cover sudden and accidental damage, such as storms, hail, or wind, but may exclude wear and tear or neglect.
- Deductible: Know how much you’ll need to pay out of pocket before your coverage kicks in.
- Policy limits: Ensure the damage doesn’t exceed your coverage cap.
- Exclusions: Some policies may not cover damage to older roofs or specific materials.
Step 3: Document the Damage
Thorough documentation is one of the most important steps in filing a successful roof damage insurance claim. By gathering clear and detailed evidence, you create a strong foundation for your case, ensuring the insurance adjuster has everything needed to process your claim efficiently.
Start by taking photographs and videos of the damaged areas. Capture a mix of wide-angle shots showing the roof’s overall condition and close-ups that highlight specific issues, such as missing shingles, punctures, or debris impacts. Be sure to document any interior damage as well, such as water stains, peeling paint, or damp insulation in your attic.
If possible, include timestamps on your photos and videos to show when the damage occurred. This can help establish a link between the damage and a covered event, such as a recent storm. Additionally, gather weather reports or news articles about the event to further substantiate your claim.
It’s also critical to document any temporary repairs you’ve made to protect your home from further damage. For example, if you’ve placed a tarp over a hole or sealed a leak, save receipts for materials and take photos of the work. These expenses may be reimbursed as part of your claim.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies have time limits for filing claims, so acting promptly is crucial. When calling your insurer, be prepared with:
- Your policy number.
- A description of the damage and how it occurred.
- Details about any temporary measures taken, such as covering leaks.
The insurer will open a claim and assign an adjuster to your case.
Step 5: Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor
Once you have called the insurance company, the next step is to contact an experienced roofing contractor in South Jersey to inspect your roof. The eyes of a trained roofer are invaluable. An inspector can detect hidden damage that you possibly missed during your visual inspection. They will see structural issues and compromised underlayment and also know how to fix those issues.
A trained inspector can also supply you with a detailed estimate. You will need the estimate for the insurance adjuster to assess the cost of repairs or replacement.
Step 6: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
The insurance adjuster will arrive at your property to inspect the damage within a couple of days after making your claim. It’s important that you are available for this meeting. Walk the adjuster around the property, pointing out the damaged areas. You should also take this time to share photo, video, and the roof inspector’s report. If you have any questions about the assessment or the process, be sure to ask the adjuster.
If possible, you may also wish to have the contractor available on-site to ensure that no damage is overlooked by the adjuster. This can help solidify your claim and get you the money you need for repairs.
Step 7: Review the Insurance Company’s Estimate
Once the adjuster completes their assessment, your insurer will provide an estimate of the covered repairs. Carefully review this document to ensure:
- It includes all identified damage.
- The cost aligns with the contractor’s estimate.
- There are no unexpected exclusions or limitations.
If you notice discrepancies or feel the estimate is too low, don’t hesitate to appeal or request a second inspection.
Step 8: Negotiate if Necessary
Insurance claims don’t always go smoothly. If your claim is denied or undervalued, take these steps:
- Understand the reason: Review the denial letter to determine why the claim was rejected.
- Provide additional evidence: This may include updated reports from your contractor, receipts for emergency repairs, or weather reports confirming the damage event.
- Seek expert help: Consider hiring a public adjuster or attorney to negotiate with your insurer.
With persistence and proper documentation, you can often secure a fair settlement.
After approval, schedule your roof repairs or replacement with a trusted roofing contractor like TA Hughes. Choose professionals who have accreditation, such as GAF Master Elite; use high quality materials; follow safety and installation best practices, as well as build according to code; and offer warranties on their work. It also helps if the contractor has at least a decade of experience, as the team will be seasoned and more likely to know how to deal with the exact issue impacting your property.
Step 10: Prevent Future Damage
Once your roof is repaired, take proactive steps to avoid future issues:
- Schedule regular inspections to catch small problems early.
- Keep gutters clean and free of debris.
- Trim overhanging branches to prevent damage from falling limbs.
- Invest in high-quality materials suited to New Jersey’s weather conditions.
Contact a South Jersey Roofing Contractor Today to Learn More
Filing a roof damage claim can be complex, but you don’t have to go into the process with questions. Hopefully, this step-by-step guide has given you some insight. TA Hughes is also here to assist with inspections, detailed assessments, and skilled repairs. With decades of experience serving New Jersey homeowners, our team is here to simplify the process and restore your roof with confidence.