Don’t Let Storm Damage Overwhelm You
Boise and the Treasure Valley are no strangers to severe weather. Sudden hailstorms and high winds can pass through quickly, leaving significant roof damage in their wake. For homeowners and property managers, discovering this damage is stressful enough without the added complexity of navigating a roof insurance claim. The process can feel confusing and overwhelming, filled with unfamiliar terms and crucial deadlines.
Understanding the steps involved is the best way to ensure you get the fair compensation you deserve to protect your property. This guide breaks down the roof insurance claim process, empowering you to handle storm damage with confidence and get the expert repairs you need.
First Steps: What to Do Immediately After a Storm
Your actions right after a storm are critical for both your safety and the success of your insurance claim. Before you do anything else, follow these essential steps.
1. Prioritize Safety
Never climb onto a roof yourself, especially when it might be wet, slippery, or structurally compromised. Look for downed power lines, fallen branches, and other immediate hazards around your property. If you suspect severe structural damage, it may be best to stay elsewhere until a professional can assess the situation.
2. Document Everything
Once it’s safe, thoroughly document any damage. Take high-quality photos and videos of your roof, gutters, siding, and windows. Capture close-ups of hail impacts on shingles or dents in flashing, as well as wider shots that show the overall scope. Note the date and time of the storm for your records.
3. Look for Signs of Damage
Visible signs of wind and hail damage include missing or cracked shingles, dents on vents or gutters, and an accumulation of shingle granules in your downspouts. Inside your home, check for new water stains on ceilings or walls, which could indicate a leak.
The Roof Insurance Claim Process: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Filing an insurance claim involves several key stages. Partnering with an experienced local contractor can make this process significantly smoother.
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Step 1: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Before contacting your insurance company, call a trusted local roofing contractor like Team Construction for a comprehensive inspection. A professional can identify all storm-related issues—some of which are invisible from the ground—and provide an accurate assessment. This expert report serves as crucial initial documentation for your claim and helps you understand the full extent of the needed roof repairs.
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Step 2: File Your Claim
With your professional inspection report in hand, contact your insurance provider to initiate a claim. Have your policy number, photos, and any other documentation ready. They will assign you a claim number and an adjuster to handle your case.
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Step 3: Meet With the Insurance Adjuster
The insurance adjuster will schedule a visit to inspect the damage. It is highly recommended to have your roofing contractor present during this meeting. Your contractor acts as your advocate, ensuring the adjuster doesn’t overlook any damage and that the scope of work is accurately represented.
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Step 4: Review the Settlement
After the inspection, you will receive a summary of the damages and a settlement offer from your insurer. Carefully review this document with your contractor to ensure it covers all necessary repairs with quality materials. If there are discrepancies, your contractor can help you negotiate with the insurance company.
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Step 5: Complete Your Roof Restoration
Once the claim is approved, you can schedule the work. Team Construction handles everything from start to finish, ensuring your residential or commercial roofing project meets the highest standards of quality and adheres to local Boise building codes.
Did You Know?
- Insurance policies often have a time limit for filing a claim after a storm, sometimes as short as six months. It’s crucial to act quickly after you suspect damage.
- In most states, including Idaho, filing a storm damage claim (considered an “Act of God”) cannot be used as the sole reason for your insurer to raise your individual premiums.
- Your insurance policy likely covers either Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV). RCV covers the cost to replace the roof new, while ACV pays for the depreciated value of your old roof. Understanding which one you have is key.
The Boise Advantage: Why a Local Contractor Matters
After a major storm, “storm chaser” roofing companies from out of state often appear in neighborhoods like those in Boise, Meridian, and Eagle. While their offers might seem tempting, working with a locally owned and operated contractor like Team Construction provides invaluable benefits.
We are deeply familiar with Idaho’s specific weather challenges and local building codes. Our team has built long-standing relationships with insurance providers in the Treasure Valley, which helps streamline the claims process. Most importantly, as a part of your community, our reputation is built on quality workmanship and accountability. We’ll be here long after the job is done to stand by our lifetime warranties. Learn more about our commitment to the community.
Expert Help is Just a Call Away
Dealing with roof damage is stressful, but you don’t have to manage the insurance process alone. The experts at Team Construction are here to guide you every step of the way, from initial inspection to final repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical roof insurance claim process take in Boise?
The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the claim and the insurance company’s responsiveness. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Having a proactive contractor managing the process can help expedite it significantly.
What happens if my insurance claim is denied?
A claim denial is not the final word. You have the right to appeal the decision. An experienced contractor can help you understand the reason for the denial and assist in providing the necessary documentation or evidence for a successful appeal.
Can I choose my own roofing contractor, or do I have to use one my insurance company recommends?
You always have the right to choose your own contractor. It’s best to select a reputable, local company you trust, rather than relying solely on an insurer’s preferred vendor. A local expert will advocate for your best interests, not the insurance company’s.
Will the first check from my insurer cover the entire cost of the roof replacement?
Not usually, if you have a Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policy. The first check is typically for the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of the damaged roof, less your deductible. The remaining amount, known as depreciation, is paid out after the work is completed and the contractor sends the final invoice to the insurer.
