Monday to Friday

Drop your queries

2111 Sam Bass Rd Ste A400, Round Rock, TX 78681, United States

Head Office

Should I Call a Roofer or Insurance First? Here’s What to Do

When roof damage occurs, many homeowners and property owners wonder whether they should call a roofer or their insurance company first. The best approach is to contact a roofer or a roofing contractor before reaching out to your insurance provider. This step can save you time, help you avoid complications with your insurance claim, and ensure your roof is thoroughly assessed and properly repaired. Let’s explore why this is the most effective course of action and how you can navigate the process smoothly.

Why Is It Important to Call a Roofer First?

Reaching out to a roofer first is important because it lays the groundwork for a successful repair and insurance process. When you consult with a roofer before your insurance company, you receive a detailed inspection that identifies all possible issues, not just the visible ones. This thorough assessment ensures that any claims you make are well-supported with evidence, and it allows you to avoid filing unnecessary claims that could affect your insurance record.

Consequences of Incorrect First Steps

If you contact your insurance company before getting a roofer’s professional assessment, you risk encountering several problems. Insurance adjusters might not identify all the damage, leading to insufficient coverage for repairs. Worse, if damage is reported and not promptly repaired, future claims could be denied due to unrepaired prior damage. This could result in significant out-of-pocket expenses that could have been avoided by consulting a roofer first.

Consider this: you notice a few missing shingles after a storm and decide to call your insurance company right away. The insurance adjuster assesses the damage and determines the repair cost is minimal, perhaps even less than your deductible. If you opt not to repair it immediately and another storm causes more damage, your insurance company might deny your second claim because the initial damage wasn’t addressed. This chain of events could have been prevented if you had first contacted a roofer for a thorough assessment and repair plan.

Differences in Objectives Between Insurance Companies and Roofers

Insurance companies and roofers often have different priorities. Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, while roofers focus on ensuring your roof is fully repaired to prevent future issues. Instead of discussing insurance policies or coverage details, roofers should concentrate on assessing the roof damage and documenting it for the homeowner. This approach ensures that the damage is properly recorded without overstepping into the insurance domain.

While insurance adjusters are trained to assess damage, their primary goal is to protect the insurance company’s financial interests. This might lead them to downplay the extent of the damage or overlook issues that could increase repair costs. On the other hand, roofers prioritize restoring your roof to its original condition, or even better. Roofers should avoid interpreting or discussing insurance policies and instead guide homeowners to consult their insurance provider or a licensed public adjuster for any policy-related questions.

Overview of the Insurance Claims Process

After your roofer has assessed the damage, they can help by documenting the damage for your insurance claim. While roofers can provide detailed reports and photographs to support the insurance claim, they should refrain from offering advice on the insurance claims process or policy specifics. A roofer can also be present during the insurance adjuster’s visit to ensure all damage is acknowledged and included in the claim.

The insurance claims process can be overwhelming for homeowners, especially if they’ve never filed a claim before. Roofers experienced in storm damage can assist by providing the necessary documentation for the homeowner. However, they should not interpret the insurance policy or offer advice beyond their expertise in roofing. This approach helps prevent potential conflicts and ensures that roofers maintain their professional boundaries.

What Happens When You Call a Roofer First?

Calling a roofer first is the best step to protect both your home and your finances. Roofers provide a comprehensive inspection that not only identifies visible damage but also uncovers any underlying issues that an insurance adjuster might miss. This thorough approach ensures you have all the information needed before involving your insurance company.

Comprehensive Roof Inspection

The initial step a roofer takes is to conduct a detailed inspection of your roof. This inspection goes beyond what an insurance adjuster might do, as roofers are focused on finding every bit of damage. Roofers can uncover underlying issues that may be missed by insurance adjusters, ensuring a more thorough inspection. They take photos, make notes, and compile detailed reports that will be invaluable when you file your insurance claim.

Professional roof inspections are more in-depth than what you might expect from an insurance adjuster’s visit. Roofers not only look for obvious damage like missing shingles or leaks but also check for subtle signs that could lead to bigger problems later on. This might include examining the roof’s structural integrity, identifying areas prone to water infiltration, or spotting vulnerabilities that could lead to future damage. Addressing these issues early on can prevent more extensive damage and higher repair costs down the road.

Detailed Documentation

Roofers don’t just identify the damage; they document it thoroughly. They provide detailed photo reports and notes that back up your claim with the insurance company. This documentation is essential because it gives the insurance company clear evidence of the damage, making it more likely that your claim will be approved.

The documentation provided by a roofer is important in the insurance claims process. This typically includes high-resolution photographs of the damage from multiple angles, notes on the extent and severity of the damage, and a professional assessment of the necessary repairs. This level of detail helps ensure that the insurance company fully understands the scope of the damage and can’t downplay or dismiss your claim.

However, roofers should focus solely on documenting the damage and avoid offering interpretations of insurance coverage. Having a roofer provide this documentation from the outset shows the insurance company that you’re committed to ensuring the damage is properly repaired, which can help expedite the approval process.

Avoiding Unnecessary Insurance Claims

Sometimes, after inspecting the roof, the roofer may find that the damage is minimal and the repair cost is around or below your deductible. A roofer can help you avoid unnecessary claims that could negatively impact your insurance record. Filing unnecessary claims can lead to higher premiums and potential difficulties with future claims. A roofer’s assessment allows you to make an informed decision about whether to involve your insurance company.

Filing an insurance claim should be a well-considered decision, not a knee-jerk reaction to any roof damage. If the cost of repairs is close to or below your deductible, it might make more sense to pay out of pocket rather than file a claim. This strategy can help you avoid a “no-pay” claim on your insurance record, which could lead to higher premiums in the future. A roofer’s assessment provides the information you need to make the best decision for your situation, ensuring that your insurance policy remains a valuable resource when you truly need it.

Assistance with the Insurance Process

One of the key benefits of calling a roofer first is the support they provide during the insurance process. While roofers can help by documenting all the damage and communicating their findings to the homeowner, they should avoid directly handling or advising on the insurance process itself. They ensure that all damage is documented and that nothing is overlooked. This step is crucial in making sure your claim is fully supported and that you get the coverage you need.

Navigating the insurance process can be challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the terminology and procedures involved. Roofers who specialize in storm damage can assist by thoroughly documenting the damage. However, any advice related to the insurance process should be left to the homeowner’s insurance company or a licensed public adjuster. This approach avoids potential conflicts of interest and ensures that roofers stay within their area of expertise.

Support During Adjuster’s Meeting

When the insurance adjuster comes to inspect the damage, having a roofer present can make all the difference. The roofer will ensure that all the damage they identified is pointed out to the adjuster. This helps prevent any issues from being overlooked and ensures that the insurance company’s assessment is accurate and complete.

The adjuster’s visit is a pivotal moment in the insurance claims process. This is when the insurance company decides how much they’re willing to pay for the repairs. Having a roofer present ensures that the adjuster doesn’t miss anything important. Roofers can also explain the nature of the damage in detail, helping the adjuster understand why certain repairs are necessary. However, roofers should avoid discussing or interpreting any insurance policy details and should instead focus on ensuring the damage is properly documented and communicated.

What Happens When You Call Your Insurance Company First?

Calling your insurance company first might seem like the right move, but it can lead to complications down the line. While it might speed up the claims process, it can also result in an incomplete assessment of the damage and potential issues with future claims. Here’s what happens when you make the insurance company your first call.

Initial Inspection by Adjuster

When you call your insurance company first, they will send an adjuster to inspect your roof. While adjusters are trained to assess damage, they might overlook certain issues, leading to insufficient coverage for repairs. Without a roofer’s input, the adjuster may miss underlying problems that could worsen over time.

Insurance adjusters are professionals, but they’re also under pressure to minimize the cost of claims. This means they might focus only on the most obvious damage, such as missing shingles or visible leaks, while missing more subtle issues like weakened roof structures or areas vulnerable to future leaks. These overlooked issues can lead to insufficient repairs, meaning you might have to pay out of pocket later on to fix problems that weren’t addressed initially.

Potential Risks of Incomplete Assessments

If the adjuster doesn’t fully identify all the damage, you may receive less coverage than needed for proper repairs. This can leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses. Furthermore, if a claim is filed and the damage is not repaired, future claims may be denied due to unrepaired prior damage. This situation can create a cycle of issues that are difficult to resolve.

Incomplete assessments are one of the biggest risks of calling your insurance company first. If the adjuster misses something, you might not get enough money to cover the full cost of repairs. Worse, if you don’t repair the damage that’s found, it could lead to further deterioration, and any subsequent claims could be denied because the initial damage wasn’t addressed. This not only puts your home at risk but also your financial stability, as you may have to cover repair costs that should have been covered by insurance.

Advantages of Involving Insurance Early in the Process

On the other hand, calling your insurance company first can result in quicker claim processing. The insurance company may appreciate being notified immediately, which can sometimes lead to faster approval of your claim. However, this speed can come at the cost of thoroughness, which is why having a roofer involved early on is important.

There are some benefits to involving your insurance company early, particularly if the damage is severe and needs immediate attention. Insurance companies often prioritize claims that are filed quickly after a loss, which can mean faster payouts. However, this quick response can sometimes come at the expense of a thorough assessment. Involving a roofer first ensures that the insurance company’s quick response doesn’t miss any critical details.

Understanding Policy Implications

When you involve your insurance company early, it helps you understand the implications of your policy right from the start. However, this can also lead to hasty decisions if you’re not fully aware of the extent of the damage. Having a roofer’s assessment beforehand ensures that you’re making informed decisions about your coverage and repairs.

Insurance policies can be complex, with many conditions, exclusions, and fine print that can affect your coverage. Calling your insurance company first might give you a quick overview of what’s covered, but without knowing the full extent of the damage, you could make decisions that aren’t in your best interest. For example, you might decide to accept a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover the repairs, or you might agree to repairs that don’t address all the issues. A roofer’s assessment gives you the information you need to make informed decisions about how to proceed with your claim.

Ready to Secure Your Roof and Claim? Get Professional Help Now

Choosing the right first step after discovering roof damage can make all the difference in protecting your home and ensuring a smooth insurance claim process. Contacting a roofer first lays the foundation for a thorough inspection, accurate documentation, and a successful claim that covers all necessary repairs. This approach helps avoid underpaid claims, ensures your roof is fully restored, and protects your financial interests.

Legacy Roofing Pros is here to guide you through this process with confidence and care. Our team of experienced roofers will provide a detailed assessment of your roof, helping you document the damage and navigate the insurance claim process smoothly. Don’t leave your roof and your finances to chance—reach out to us today for a free roof inspection and let us help you secure your home and claim with the attention and expertise you deserve.

HAVE YOUR ROOF ASSESED

Special Offer: Free Roof Inspection and Consultation!

Are you unsure about the condition of your roof or which roofing material is best for your home? Let Legacy Roofing Pros help! We are offering a free roof inspection and consultation to help you determine the best roofing solutions for your needs. Our experts will thoroughly inspect your roof, provide a detailed assessment, and recommend the best options for repair, replacement, or upgrade.

FAQs: Should I Call a Roofer or Insurance First?

What Are the Risks of Calling My Insurance Company First?

Calling your insurance company first without a professional assessment from a roofer can lead to several risks. The insurance adjuster might not identify all the damage, especially hidden issues that could worsen over time. This can result in an incomplete claim and insufficient coverage for repairs. Additionally, your claim may be processed with a lower payout, as the adjuster’s goal is often to minimize the insurance company’s liability. By contacting a roofer first, you ensure that all damage is thoroughly documented and presented to your insurance company, which increases the chances of receiving adequate compensation.

Legacy Roofing Pros can help you avoid these risks by conducting a comprehensive roof inspection and providing detailed documentation before you contact your insurance company. This ensures that your claim is backed by accurate and thorough evidence, leading to a more favorable outcome.

How Can a Roofer Help During the Insurance Claim Process?

A roofer plays a crucial role in the insurance claim process by providing a detailed assessment of the roof damage. This includes documenting all visible and hidden issues with photos, videos, and written reports. Roofers can also offer guidance on what repairs are necessary and assist in ensuring that the insurance adjuster accounts for all the damage. While roofers should not interpret insurance policies, they can be present during the adjuster’s inspection to point out any issues that need attention.

Legacy Roofing Pros offers comprehensive support throughout the insurance claim process. We provide detailed assessments, thorough documentation, and can coordinate with your insurance adjuster to make sure all damage is properly addressed in your claim.

Will My Insurance Rates Increase if I File a Claim?

Filing an insurance claim can potentially lead to an increase in your insurance premiums, especially if the claim is significant or if you have filed multiple claims in the past. However, the exact impact on your rates depends on your insurance company’s policies and the nature of the claim. If the damage is minimal and the repair cost is close to or below your deductible, it might be better to handle the repairs out-of-pocket to avoid filing a claim that could affect your premiums.

Legacy Roofing Pros can help you make an informed decision about whether to file a claim. Our team will assess the damage and provide an estimate, helping you determine if filing a claim is the best option for your situation.

What Should I Look for in a Roofer Before Filing an Insurance Claim?

Before filing an insurance claim, it’s important to choose a roofer with the right credentials and experience. Look for a roofer who is licensed, insured, and has a strong track record of handling insurance-related repairs. The roofer should be able to provide detailed documentation of the damage and be familiar with the insurance claim process. Additionally, avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible or make promises that seem too good to be true, as these can be signs of fraud.

Legacy Roofing Pros is a fully registered and insured roofing contractor with extensive experience in handling insurance claims. We provide thorough inspections, detailed documentation, and expert guidance to help you navigate the claim process with confidence.

How Long Does the Insurance Claim Process Typically Take?

The insurance claim process can vary in length depending on several factors, including the severity of the damage, the responsiveness of the insurance company, and the complexity of the claim. Typically, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Delays can occur if the documentation is incomplete or if there are disputes about the extent of the damage. Having a roofer involved early in the process can help expedite the claim by ensuring that all necessary documentation is provided upfront.

Legacy Roofing Pros helps streamline the insurance claim process by providing prompt and detailed documentation of the damage. Our goal is to work efficiently with your insurance company to ensure your claim is processed as quickly as possible, allowing you to move forward with repairs.

Can I Choose My Own Roofer, or Do I Have to Use One Recommended by My Insurance Company?

In most cases, you have the right to choose your own roofer, even if your insurance company recommends a specific contractor. It’s important to select a roofer who you trust and who has the experience to handle your specific needs. While the insurance company’s recommended roofer may be a good option, you are not obligated to use them, and choosing your own roofer can give you more control over the repair process.

Legacy Roofing Pros is a trusted choice for homeowners who want quality repairs and reliable service. We work directly with you and your insurance company to ensure that your roof is repaired to the highest standards.

What Happens if My Insurance Claim Is Denied?

If your insurance claim is denied, it’s important to understand the reason for the denial. Common reasons include insufficient documentation, damage that isn’t covered by your policy, or issues that the insurance company believes were caused by neglect rather than an insured event. If your claim is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or seek assistance from a public adjuster.

Legacy Roofing Pros can assist you in gathering additional documentation and provide support if you need to appeal a denied claim. Our goal is to help you get the coverage you deserve and ensure your roof is properly repaired.

What Types of Roof Damage Are Typically Covered by Insurance?

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover damage caused by specific events, such as storms, hail, wind, fire, and falling objects. However, damage resulting from wear and tear, neglect, or improper maintenance is usually not covered. It’s important to review your policy to understand what types of damage are covered and to ensure your roof is properly maintained to prevent issues that might not be covered by insurance.

Legacy Roofing Pros provides comprehensive roof inspections and maintenance services to help you keep your roof in good condition and prevent issues that might not be covered by insurance. If your roof is damaged by a covered event, we’ll work with you to ensure the damage is properly documented and repaired.

How Can I Ensure That My Insurance Claim Covers All Necessary Repairs?

To ensure that your insurance claim covers all necessary repairs, it’s important to have a roofer conduct a thorough inspection and provide detailed documentation of all damage. This documentation should include photos, videos, and written reports that clearly outline the scope of the damage. Having this information available when the insurance adjuster arrives can help ensure that nothing is overlooked and that your claim covers all the repairs needed to restore your roof.

Legacy Roofing Pros specializes in detailed roof inspections and comprehensive documentation. We work closely with you to make sure all damage is accounted for in your insurance claim, helping you get the full coverage you need for repairs.

Can a Roofer Help If My Insurance Company Disputes the Extent of the Damage?

If your insurance company disputes the extent of the damage, a roofer can provide additional evidence to support your claim. This might include more detailed documentation, expert opinions, or even a second inspection. A roofer’s involvement can be particularly helpful if there is a disagreement about the severity of the damage or the repairs needed.

Legacy Roofing Pros is committed to supporting our clients throughout the insurance claim process. If your insurance company disputes the extent of the damage, we can provide additional documentation and work with you to resolve the issue, ensuring your roof gets the repairs it needs.

Contact Us Today!

Get Your Free Roof Inspection Today!

Are you concerned about the condition of your roof?

Fill out the form below to schedule your FREE ROOF INSPECTION today!

replacement-of-architechtural-heritage-shingle-on-a-residential-roof-in-Butler-Way-Round-Rock-TX-78665-3888-by-Legacy-Roofing-Pros

Why a Cheap Roof is Not the Best Option for Homeowners

Atlas-Roofing-Pinnacle-Impact-Shingles-Pewter

Atlas Pinnacle Impact Shingles: Your Roof’s Best Defense!

Atlas Pinnacle Sun Roof Cool Sand (Atlas Roofing)

Atlas Pinnacle Sun Shingles: Energy-Efficient & Durable Roofing

roof-replacement-in-Taree-Loop-Killeen-TX -76549-by-Legacy-Roofing-Pros

What Questions Should I Ask a Roofer? Choosing the Right Contractor

TAMKO Shingles: Heritage vs. Titan XT vs. Stormfighter Flex

Province Slate black by DaVinci Roofscapes

Top 10 Myths About Synthetic Roofing Materials Like DaVinci

James Tababa

See Full Bio

Contact Legacy Roofing Pros today to learn more about our comprehensive solutions for your roofing needs!

Legacy Roofing Pros is more than just a roofing company – we’re your trusted partner in safeguarding what matters most. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing top-tier roofing services that prioritize quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction

Should I Call a Roofer or Insurance First? Here’s What to Do