Yorkton Roofing Companies

Hail & Wind Insurance Roofing Claims

New Roof after Hail and/or Wind Damage

DO NOT WAIT TO FILE YOUR CLAIM

Contact the claims department of your insurance company as soon as possible. Find out how long you have to file a claim. If you don’t file a claim within the allowable time, (usually one year), you may end up footing the bill yourself.

TAKE PHOTOS/VIDEO OF THE AFTERMATH OF THE STORM

Once the storm is over and it is safe to go outside. Take lots of photos, starting with the amount and size of hail on the ground or on a deck or balcony. Even take pictures of the amount of hail on the street and on your neighbour’s property.

Even record (if possible) the weather channel/network. Even take screen captures of your phone weather app. The more evidence you can have will always help.

It’s crucial that you record the exact date the damage occurred. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.

Do not go on your roof. The rough can be slippery and if there is severe damage, you might get hurt. Wait for a professional. Watch for other damage in the area. Such as downed power lines or trees/branches that might not have fallen to the ground yet. Stay safe.

INSPECT YOUR HOME THOROUGHLY

Even minor damage can cause serious, expensive leaks in the future. A professional inspection will confirm how much damage you have. They can tell whether your roof needs to repair or replacement.

Check windows for damage, house siding and even water in the basement or crawlspace.

If the damage to your home is less than the deductible for your insurance. It is best to handle those repairs and not use your insurance to ensure your coverage is not affected.

CHOOSE YOUR OWN CONTRACTOR

In most cases, insurers will not force you to use the contractors they recommend. Although their preferred contractors are usually reputable companies.

There’s no guarantee you will get the quality you deserve. It is important to meet with any contractor under consideration. Make sure you are comfortable with using them. You have the right to choose your own contractor. You should take as much care in doing so as you would if the insurance company was not involved.

DO NOT RELY ON YOUR SHINGLE MANUFACTURER OR ROOFING CONTRACTOR’S WARRANTIES

Manufacturers’ warranties have specific exclusions for hail damage. As well as limitations with regard to wind coverage.

Roofing contractors offer warranties that cover their workmanship, but not “acts of god”.

If you have hail or excessive wind damage, you should file a claim with your insurer as soon as possible.

UNDERSTAND YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE

Insurers are not allowed to cancel your home policy due to hail or wind damage claims. But it is important to understand the details of your coverage and how your premiums may change.

Compare the costs of your deductibles and premium changes to the cost of the repair. Before filing a claim, ensure it is worth your while.

YOU FILED A CLAIM BUT IT WAS DENIED

After a major storm, insurance adjusters and roofing contractors can become overwhelmed.

As a result, you may not receive a thorough inspection of your claim. In situations where there are a large number of claims. Your claim may not have received the proper amount of attention. This can lead to claims that might get denied.

You have every right to appeal this decision. Especially if you know your area had hail and your neighbours have had their claims approved. You should get another independent, detailed inspection.