If your roof suffered damage due to a severe storm, you may need to file an insurance claim to cover the expenses of repairing or replacing it. However, it’s crucial to understand that not every claim gets approved. Or, if it ever gets approved, the payout isn’t what you envisioned it to be. In this blog post, roofing expert ImproveIT! of Atlanta explains why insurance claims may be denied and what to do if your insurer denies your claim.
1. Insufficient Documentation
When you file a roofing insurance claim, you must provide your insurance company with thorough documentation of the roof damage. This includes photos, detailed descriptions of the affected area, and other supporting evidence.
Insufficient documentation may lead to the denial of your claim, as insurance companies need to assess the extent of the damage accurately. To ensure a smooth claim process, take the time to document everything as accurately as possible before submitting your claim.
2. Lack of Maintenance
Roof damage resulting from a lack of proper maintenance might lead your insurance company to deny your claim. Insurance providers expect homeowners to keep their roofs in good condition by performing regular roofing inspections and addressing any potential issues promptly.
If your claim is rejected after finding out that the roof hasn’t been maintained for the longest time, it can be a costly lesson to learn. So, it’s always a good idea to schedule regular roof check-ups and proactively address any issues, so you can be sure that your insurance coverage can be counted on when needed.
3. Damage Not Covered by the Policy
It’s important to know that homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover all types of roof damage. Your insurance provider might not cover damage due to wear and tear or cosmetic issues. For instance, if your composite shingle roof is 30 years old and starts leaking, your insurer may not cover the replacement cost because they do not cover claims for damage caused by a roof’s natural deterioration.
Before filing a claim, review your policy thoroughly to understand what is and isn’t covered. If you find that your policy does not cover the damage in question, you may need to explore alternative options for financing the repairs.
4. Incorrect Installation
Unfortunately, improper installation of roofing materials can lead to the denial of your insurance claim. Not only does it cause damage to your roof but also void any warranties on the materials used. Working with a reputable and experienced roofing company, like ImproveIT! of Atlanta, is always the best way to prevent this situation. A professional team will ensure your roof is installed correctly, protecting your investment and reducing the risk of future issues leading to claim denials.
5. Exceeding the Time Limit for Filing a Claim
Filing a roofing insurance claim promptly after discovering the damage is crucial. Most insurance policies have a specific deadline for filing claims; missing out on this can result in a denial. To avoid this issue, notify your insurance company as soon as you find obvious signs of roof damage, and be sure to submit your claim within the required timeframe. This will give you the best chance of receiving the coverage you need to address the damage.
6. Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractor
When filing insurance claims, choosing an unlicensed or uninsured contractor to work on your roof can have serious consequences. If damage occurs due to the contractor’s actions or negligence, your insurance company may deny your claim.
To avoid this potential problem, always verify a contractor’s credentials before hiring them for roof replacement or other services. This due diligence will give you peace of mind knowing that your roof is in capable and responsible hands.
7. Pre-Existing Damage
Insurance companies may deny claims for damage that existed before your policy was in effect. This can be particularly frustrating if you were unaware of the pre-existing damage when you purchased your home or obtained the insurance policy. It’s crucial to address any pre-existing damage before obtaining a new insurance policy or switching providers to ensure you have the coverage you need in case of future roofing issues.
What to Do if Your Claim Is Rejected or Underpaid
If your roofing insurance claim is denied or underpaid, the first step is to contact your insurance company. Ask them to provide a written explanation for the denial or underpayment. Next, review the explanation and dispute any claims that may be inaccurate. It’s important to provide evidence to support your dispute and be prepared to negotiate a fair resolution with your insurance provider. If you find you’re still unable to reach an agreement, you may need to consider other options for financing the replacement.
Why Work With Us?
Working with a trusted and experienced roofing company, such as ImproveIT! of Atlanta, LLC, can help you get compensation for your claim. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Exceptional Expertise. At ImproveIT! of Atlanta, our team has extensive experience handling insurance claims for roofing damage. We understand the complexities involved in the process and can help homeowners navigate it easily. By working with us, you can ensure that your claim is filed correctly and that any potential roadblocks are addressed promptly.
- ImproveIT! of Atlanta’s Commitment to Quality. Our commitment to providing quality roofing services at ImproveIT! of Atlanta means that our customers can rest easy knowing that their roofs are in expert hands. Our experience and knowledge of the insurance claims process help homeowners avoid common pitfalls that can lead to claim denials. Your roof is a significant investment, and we’re dedicated to ensuring it’s protected and maintained to the highest standards.
- Comprehensive Services. ImproveIT! of Atlanta offers various services, including roof replacement, to help homeowners maintain their roofs and avoid insurance claim issues. Our team of professionals is adept at identifying potential roofing problems and providing the services necessary to keep your roof in top condition. By trusting ImproveIT! of Atlanta with your roofing needs, you can feel confident that your roof will be well-cared for and that your insurance claims will be handled efficiently.
Let Us Take Care of Your Roofing Needs!
If you need roofing assistance, don’t hesitate to contact ImproveIT! of Atlanta by calling (770) 612-5635 or filling out our online form. Our team of experts is ready to help you navigate the insurance claims process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve that will help bring your roof back to its pre-loss condition. We serve homeowners in Sandy Springs, Marietta, and Alpharetta, GA.
