Insurance Claims and Answers
If you are a homeowner, the homeowners’ insurance policies often cover roof damage. This largely depends on the cause of the damage and the contents of your insurance policy.
Here are the top ten FAQ questions on roofing insurance claims and answers. Also, check here to understand how often should you replace your roof.
WHAT DAMAGE CAUSES ARE COVERED BY INSURANCE?
Answer: The causes that are recognized and often covered by insurance policy include the following: wind, vandalism, lightning, fire, natural disasters, hail, etc. These causes can be summarized as events beyond human control.
WOULD MY INSURANCE POLICY COVER DAMAGE TO AN OLD ROOF?
Answer: Possibly. Insurance claims for damage to roofs could be turned down depending on the age of your roof. Given the expected life span of most roofs vary from 20-50 years, your roof might be deemed too old and the damage assumed to be caused by this.
DOES FILING A CLAIM HAVE TO COME BEFORE REPAIRING MY ROOF?
Answer: Yes, it is advisable that you file a claim before you begin repairs. Temporary repairs can still be made before the claim is approved but it is best to wait, so the insurance company can handle the cost of repair or replacement of your damaged roof.
WHAT’S THE USUAL DURATION FOR THE SETTLEMENT OF INSURANCE DAMAGE CLAIMS?
Answer: This can vary from insurance company to company and can also depend on factors such as company workload at that point in time. General disasters could slow down attention to your roof damage claims. Once your claim has been approved, it could take about 30 days before you get your claim check.
DOES INSURANCE COVER ROOF LEAKAGES?
Answer: As earlier mentioned, your homeowner insurance policy covering roof leakage would depend largely on the cause of the leakage. Insurance would not cover leakage caused by poor maintenance or wear and tear from aging.
HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO FILE A CLAIM BEFORE IT IS DEEMED LATE?
Answer: You have a year to file a claim.
AM I REQUIRED TO GET THE ESTIMATES FOR REPAIRS?
Answer: The insurance company would eventually send an insurance adjuster for a visit to your home if your claim has been considered. Despite this, the claim check can come in short at times, and it is important to have your own estimate for repair to appeal or for reimbursement if you have commenced repairs.
WHAT IS REQUIRED OF ME BEFORE I CAN FILE A CLAIM?
Answer: In cases of vandalism, a police report would be required of you. Other documents that could be required include your insurance policy number, details of the accident, and photos.
IS IT COMPULSORY THAT I FILE A CLAIM?
Answer: It isn’t compulsory to file a claim for a damaged roof if the cost of repair is not so far apart from your deductible.
WOULD I BE GIVEN A DISCOUNT ON A ROOF UPGRADE?
Answer: That depends on your insurance company.
With this knowledge, you can go on to make good decisions on filing an insurance claim in the repair of your damaged roof.