Welcome to another part of our blog post series on storm damage in Georgia. Heavy storms are common during these months, and as a roofing company that focuses on educating homeowners, it became essential that we provide you with the knowledge to safeguard your roof from storm damage during this time.
Today we will be talking about storm damage roof inspections in Georgia.
In this blog post, we will explore the importance of a storm damage roof inspection in the insurance claims process. We will delve into the relationship between storm damage and insurance coverage, highlighting the significance of proper documentation and evidence in supporting your claim. Additionally, we will discuss the benefits of timely roof inspections.
Whether you’ve recently experienced a severe storm or want to be prepared for future events, this post can help.
What To Do After a Storm Hits Your Area
Take care of yourself and your family, and ensure that everyone is safe. Wait for the storm to pass before you inspect your roof.
- When it is safe, go outside to check for visible damage. This can include dents in siding or downspouts, cracks in windows, missing roof shingles, and more.
- Check inside attics and basements for evidence of water leakage and cracks in the roof.
- Contact a professional roofing contractor to conduct a storm damage roof inspection.
Understanding Storm Damage and Insurance Claims
When a storm rolls through, it can leave a trail of destruction in its wake. From fallen trees to flooded basements, one area that often bears the brunt of storm damage is the roof.
As a homeowner, you rely on your insurance policy to provide coverage and financial protection in the event of such unforeseen damage. However, it’s essential to understand how storm damage and insurance claims intersect to ensure a smooth and successful claims process.
Insurance companies, when settling the claim or determining the amount you get to repair or replace your roof, typically require detailed information, such as photographs, videos, and written descriptions of the damage. The more comprehensive and accurate your documentation, the better your chances are of a successful claim. This is where a professional roof inspector comes in, as they are specially trained to spot and document even the smallest damage.
Other Benefits Of Storm Damage Roof Inspections
By conducting a thorough roof inspection, you can provide comprehensive documentation of the damage, bolstering your claim and maximizing your chances of receiving the full coverage you deserve. But there are some other benefits as well, including:
Early Detection:
Roof inspections play a crucial role in detecting wind or hail storm damage early on. While some damage may be immediately visible, such as missing shingles or obvious leaks, other issues may be hidden in other layers of the roof.
Preventing Further Damage:
Storm damage to a roof can worsen over time, especially if left unaddressed. A small leak, for example, can lead to extensive water damage, mold growth, and compromised structural integrity. By conducting a timely roof inspection, you can identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
Peace of Mind and Long-Term Protection:
A comprehensive roof inspection provides homeowners with peace of mind, knowing that their roof has been thoroughly assessed for storm damage. It allows them to proactively address any issues and ensure the integrity of their roof for the long term.
How Roof Damage Insurance Claims Work
The home insurance policy you purchase when you build or buy your dream home usually covers roof storm damage as well. If your roof in Georgia was damaged in a storm or by fallen debris, then your home insurance should cover the cost of repairing your roof to its former condition. However, roof insurance claims from storm damage aren’t always that easy.
Some insurance policies have regulations regarding the age of your roof, while some have limitations about the amount they will settle for. In this section, we will explain how this process works so you can better understand what steps to take.
When a storm hits your area, first assess the condition of your roof yourself. If it looks to be in good condition, then you most likely do not need repairs. But if you find significant damage or sense an underlying issue, continue reading for the next steps.
If there is a major problem, secure the scene and do your best to limit further damage. If there’s a hole in your roof, for example, then put a tarp over the area to prevent further flooding or damage within your home.
Contact your insurance company to begin the insurance claims process. Your insurance company will set up a claim number for you and provide further instructions.
If your roof is severely damaged, the insurance company might recommend calling a restoration roofing company to your location immediately to provide emergency roofing services.
The insurance company will send an adjuster to your house to inspect your roof, assess the damage, and determine what is and is not covered by your insurance.
After the inspection, the insurance company will process your roof damage claim and determine how much the cost to repair or replace the roof is covered according to the terms of your policy.
In many cases, the insurance company will dispute certain aspects of your insurance claim. In this case, you might want to hire a public adjuster to handle your insurance claim to ensure you receive the maximum possible amount of compensation.
Contact A Roofing Contractor For A Storm Damage Roof Inspection
When it comes to assessing storm damage and ensuring an accurate evaluation of your roof’s condition, hiring a professional contractor for a roof inspection is essential. Though you might want to inspect the roof yourself, understand that climbing on the roof and looking for signs of damage can be highly risky, more so after a storm has passed.
To ensure your safety, it is best to hire a professional to handle the roof inspection. Here are some other benefits:
Accurate Assessment:
Contractors have a keen eye for detail and can identify both visible and hidden damage. They know where to look for potential issues, such as damaged flashing, compromised seals, or weakened structural components.
Documentation and Evidence:
Insurance claims require detailed documentation and evidence of the storm damage. Professional contractors can provide a comprehensive report with photographs, videos, and written descriptions that serve as compelling evidence to support your claim. Their documentation is often more credible and carries more weight with insurance adjusters.
Streamlining the Claims Process:
Navigating the insurance claims process can be complex and time-consuming. Hiring a contractor for the roof inspection can help streamline this process. They are familiar with the documentation requirements and can assist you in compiling the necessary information to submit a comprehensive claim.
Quality Assurance:
Beyond the initial inspection, professional contractors can provide guidance on the best course of action for repairs or a roof replacement.
Read More: “5 Tips For Choosing A Roofer For Storm Damage Roof Replacements“
Was Your Roof Damaged By A Storm? We Can Help!
If your roof has sustained storm damage and you are unable to judge the extent of the problem, it is essential that you contact our team at Division Kangaroof for storm damage services.
We specialize in navigating insurance claims so you don’t have to go through the process alone. We have insurance adjusters ready to help you assess the damage on your roof and determine the value of your claim. Plus, once your insurance claim has been approved, we can also provide you with replacement or repair services!
Contact us today at (706) 778-3516 to book a free roof inspection, and get your insurance claims process started.
