How to get insurance to pay for roof replacement

How to get insurance to pay for roof replacement

Did you know that during a hailstorm, it’s not just your roof that might be at risk of damage? Yep, your home, windows, gutter, solar shades, fence and other belongings could also take a hit! While hailstorms can be pretty rough, the amount of damage they cause can really depend on a few different things.

Below, we’ll walk you through some of the factors that can impact how much damage a hailstorm might cause, plus we’ll give you a quick guide on how to spot hail damage on different types of shingles and roofing materials, and other damage around your house from the storm.

Wind: Hailstorms come with winds that can change direction and speed, and that can affect where the hail lands and how hard it hits.

Size and Density: The size of the hailstones really makes a difference. Hail can be tiny like peas or huge like softballs. Most hailstones aren’t exactly smooth, which can make the damage worse.

Building Materials: Not all building materials react the same way when hit by hail. For example, aluminum siding and asphalt shingles might get dinged, while vinyl siding or wood shakes could crack. If the hail is big enough, it might even puncture your roof! Plus, an older roof could be more vulnerable to damage.

Barriers: Sometimes, natural barriers like trees, landscaping, fences, or even neighboring buildings can shield your home from the worst of the storm.

What Does Hail Damage on Your Roof Look Like?

Different shingles handle hail in different ways. For example, asphalt shingles react differently than wood shingles. Here’s a quick look at how each type might show hail damage:

Asphalt & Composition Shingles:

Random damage with no clear pattern.
Black spots where hail has hit.
Loss of granules, possibly exposing the roof felt.
Shiny-looking spots on the asphalt or mat.
Hail hits that feel soft, kind of like a bruise on a fruit.

Wood Shingles:

Random damage with no clear pattern.
Splits in the shingles that are brownish or orange.
Sharp, clean corners on the splits.
Minimal wear or deterioration around the split edges.
Dents or marks around the splits.

Just keep in mind, not everything that looks like hail damage actually is. Shingles naturally get worn out over time from exposure to weather and sunlight, which can make them brittle or give them an aged look. That’s normal wear and tear, but it’s sometimes confused with hail damage. Other signs of normal aging include blistering, cracking, granule loss, and even algae. And sometimes, manufacturing defects can also be mistaken for hail damage.

If you think your home might’ve been hit hard by hail, it’s a good idea to give your insurance agent or representative a call to discuss what to do next.

ROOF HAIL DAMAGE PHOTOS

How to get insurance to pay for roof replacement

Average insurance payout for hail damage roof

Most homeowners insurance policies cover roof replacement if the damage is the result of an act of nature or sudden accidental event.
How to get insurance to pay for roof replacement,
Most homeowners insurance policies won't pay to replace or for roof repair to a roof that's gradually deteriorating due to wear-and-tear or neglect.
To ensure approval of your claim, keep records of repairs, before-and-after photos, and reports from roof inspections. Notify your insurance company promptly when damage occurs

Roof insurance , Do you know How Coverage Works ?

The roof is arguably the most expensive part of your home and has the most direct exposure to the elements. Unlikely incidents, like a tree limb crashing down on the roof, a faulty repair, animal damage, or God forbid, Hail damage. Damage and destruction from such events qualify the homeowner for a total or partial roof replacement.

Homeowners insurance policies are designed to protect homeowners from financial loss due to damage or destruction of their property. A standard policy typically includes coverage for the structure of the home, personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses. However, the extent of coverage for roof replacement depends on various factors, including the policy type, the cause of damage, and the roof's age and condition. Of course, you'll still have to pay your policy deductible before your coverage kicks in. Some policies, especially those written in certain high-risk states, impose a higher deductible for damages that ensue from hurricanes or hailstorms. Residents in those areas wishing to protect their property often have to purchase additional coverage, or a separate windstorm insurance policy or hurricane insurance policy.

We recommend an RCV policy with a 1% deducible

Actual Cash Value (ACV): With an ACV policy, your insurance company will reimburse you for the cost to replace your roof, but they will factor in depreciation. Depreciation is determined based on the age and condition of your roof. As a result, you may receive less than the full cost of a new roof.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV): An RCV policy, on the other hand, covers the full cost of replacing your damaged roof with a new one, without considering depreciation. While RCV policies generally come with higher premiums, they provide more comprehensive coverage, ensuring you get the full amount needed to replace your roof.

In summary, the main difference between ACV and RCV is how depreciation is accounted for in calculating the reimbursement amount for roof replacement. RCV policies offer more extensive coverage but usually have higher premiums, while ACV policies may lead to lower reimbursements due to depreciation.

Types of Roof Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance

Generally, homeowners insurance policies cover roof damage resulting from events that are sudden, accidental, and unexpected. Some common examples include:

Severe weather events (e.g., windstorms, hail, lightning)
Fire or smoke damage
Vandalism
Falling objects (e.g., trees or branches)

It's essential to review your policy to understand the specific perils covered, as some policies may exclude certain types of damage or have coverage limitations.

Factors Affecting Roof Replacement Coverage

Your homeowners insurance policy may not cover roof replacement costs in some situations, such as:

Normal wear and tear: Insurance policies generally do not cover damage resulting from the roof's natural aging process, as this is considered a maintenance issue.
Poor maintenance: If you have neglected to maintain your roof, your insurer may deny your claim for roof replacement.
Exclusions: Some policies exclude specific types of damage, such as those caused by earthquakes, floods, or pests.

How to negotiate roof replacement with insurance

Step 1: Understand Your Insurance Policy

Before attempting to file a claim for a new roof, it's crucial to understand the coverage provided by your homeowners insurance policy. Review the terms and conditions, paying close attention to the section outlining roof damage and replacement. In general, insurance policies cover roof damage caused by unforeseen events such as natural disasters, fire, and vandalism.

Types of Roof Coverage

There are typically two types of coverage for roofs in homeowners insurance policies:

Actual Cash Value (ACV): This coverage takes into account the age and condition of your roof. It provides compensation based on the depreciated value of the roof, considering wear and tear over time.
Replacement Cost Value (RCV): This coverage reimburses the homeowner for the full cost of replacing the roof without taking depreciation into account. RCV coverage generally results in a higher payout than ACV coverage.

Step 2: Document the Roof Damage

Before contacting your insurance provider, it's essential to document the damage to your roof thoroughly. Follow these steps to create a solid foundation for your claim:

Take photographs: Capture clear, high-quality images of the damage from various angles, both close-up and wide shots. Include photos of any related interior damage, such as water stains or leaks.
Record a video: Walk around the perimeter of your home, narrating the damage you see. This visual documentation can be a valuable supplement to your photos.
Make notes: Write down important details about the damage, such as the date it occurred, the cause (if known), and any relevant weather events.

Step 3: Contact a Roofing Professional

Before filing a claim with your insurance company, consult a reputable roofing professional to assess the damage and provide an estimate for repairs or replacement. This expert opinion can be a valuable tool when negotiating with your insurance provider.

Choose a reputable contractor: Select a licensed, insured, and experienced roofing professional. Look for online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or neighbors.
Obtain a written estimate: Request a detailed, written estimate for the necessary repairs or replacement, including materials, labor, and any additional services.

Step 4: File Your Insurance Claim

Once you have documented the damage and consulted with a roofing professional, it's time to file your claim with your insurance company. Follow these steps to submit your claim:

Contact your insurance provider: Call your insurance company's claims department and inform them of your intention to file a claim for roof damage. Provide any relevant policy numbers and contact information.
Submit your documentation: Send your photos, videos, notes, and the roofing professional's written estimate to your insurance provider. Keep copies for your records.
Schedule an adjuster appointment: Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage and provide their own estimate. Be present during the inspection to answer any questions and ensure the adjuster fully understands the extent of the damage.

Step 5: Review the Insurance Company's Offer

Once your claim is processed, your insurance provider will present you with a settlement offer. Review this offer carefully, ensuring it aligns with your coverage and the roofing professional's estimate. If you believe the offer is insufficient, you may negotiate with the insurance company or seek a second opinion from another roofing expert.

Step 6: Negotiate and Finalize the Settlement

If you feel the initial offer from your insurance company is too low, don't hesitate to negotiate. Consider the following tips to ensure a fair settlement:

Present your evidence: Use the documentation and roofing professional's estimate as leverage during negotiations. Highlight any discrepancies between the adjuster's assessment and the roofing expert's opinion.

Remain persistent: Be prepared for the insurance company to push back on your request for a higher settlement. Remain firm in your stance, and reiterate the reasons for your proposed amount.

Consider hiring a public adjuster: If negotiations reach an impasse, consider hiring a public adjuster to advocate on your behalf. These professionals have experience dealing with insurance companies and can help you secure a fair settlement.

“Once you've reached an agreement with your insurance provider, it's time to move forward with the roof repairs or replacement. Coordinate with your chosen roofing professional to schedule the work and ensure it's completed to your satisfaction”

Does insurance cover hail damage on a 20 year-old roof ?

Roofs that are over 20 years old often have limited coverage, if any.

Are blown off shingles covered by insurance ?

Shingles often blow off in wind storms, and when they do they can pull off the tar seal with them. While some insurance companies will only pay for a patch job depending on the extent of the damage, others will pay for total roof replacement.

What makes a roof uninsurable ?

Age: The age of your roof and insurance coverage go hand in hand. A newer roof may mean a lower rate. A roof that's 20 years old or more may be ineligible for coverage or only be covered for its actual cash value.

How long does a reroof last ?

Asphalt Shingles: 15-30 years. Wood Shingles: 20-25 years. Rubber Roofs: 30-50 years. Metal Roofs: 50-75 years.

How many years do you depreciate a new roof ?

27.5 years , A new roof on the property qualifies as an improvement, restoration, or betterment of the property, meaning it is a capital improvement. The new roof is also treated as a separate asset from the existing structure of the property, which means you can depreciate it over its useful life of 27.5 years.

how often will insurance pay for a new roof ?

Unless there is a storm to file a claim for, or explicit damage, insurance will not replace your roof, since most roofs have to be replaced every couple of decades, insurance will not cover the slow and natural wear and tear of the roof. So if a roof is more than 20 years old, you may not have any roof coverage at all even with a storm.

Hail damage roof repair

Granule loss

Granules are the sandpaper-like part of the shingle. When a shingle loses granules, its asphalt coating is exposed to the elements, and this leads to accelerated aging. Take a look in your gutters and downspouts after a hailstorm to see if any granules have come off your shingles.

Cracks in the shingles

Hard hail impacts or high winds can grip the shingles and cause cracks. This can lead to exposure and tears, leaving your roof with bare spots. Cracked shingles cannot effectively protect your roof from the weather.

Exposed fiberglass mat

Hail impact on a roof can shatter the shingles’ surfacing, causing it to break away from the fiberglass mat underneath.

Fractured fiberglass mat

Fractured fiberglass can be slightly harder to detect and usually requires a trained eye. Fractured fiberglass mats can result in tears and cracks from a point of hail impact.

Weakened self-seal strip

High winds and hail can weaken the seal integrity of your shingles. A weakened seal is what causes a shingle to blow off and can leave your roof exposed to the elements. Once a shingle is damaged, its integrity has been permanently compromised. This can lead to leaks, and it can cause other shingles around it to tear.

Once you know about these common forms of hail roof damage, you can start to look for signs of damage on your property after a hailstorm.

If you're looking for a way to get insurance coverage for your roof repairs or replacements, it's essential to understand how to make the most of your policy. Roofing insurance can provide compensation to cover roof repair or replacement costs, ensuring you don't have to pay out of pocket.

To get insurance to pay for roof replacement, first ensure that your policy includes roof replacement coverage. It's crucial to have this repair coverage as part of your insurance policy, so you don't end up paying for the entire replacement yourself. When your roof needs to be replaced, you can rely on your insurance to cover the costs.

In the event of damage to your roof, be proactive in getting insurance to pay for the repairs or replacement. Begin by documenting the damage with photos and contacting your insurance provider to file a claim. Your insurer will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the compensation.

If your insurance company approves the claim, they will typically cover the costs of repairing or replacing your roof, minus your policy's deductible. Remember, it's essential to keep up with regular maintenance, as insurance may not cover repairs or replacements due to neglect.

Ultimately, the best way to buy roofing insurance coverage is by thoroughly researching your options and selecting a policy that provides comprehensive protection. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roof will be repaired or replaced by your insurance, leaving you free to focus on other aspects of your life.

Can Hail Damage to a Roof Be Repaired?

Good news—yes, it can! Depending on how bad the damage is, fixing a hail-damaged roof could be as simple as replacing a single shingle or as extensive as putting on a whole new roof. That’s why it’s always a smart idea to have a professional take a look after a big hailstorm. A skilled roofer can quickly assess how serious the damage is.

The best part? Most roof inspections are free! So, if you’re concerned your roof might’ve taken a hit during a recent storm, you can have it checked out without spending a dime. Not sure if you need an inspection? Keep an eye out for the signs of damage mentioned earlier. If you’re spotting multiple dents in your gutters or damage to your siding, it’s a good idea to consider a hail damage roof inspection. Sometimes, roof damage can be obvious, but even mild damage needs attention, and a professional can help you decide what repairs are necessary.

What Happens if You Ignore Roof Repairs?

If you let roof damage go unchecked, things can escalate quickly. Damaged shingles can lead to leaks or ice dams, which in turn can cause mold, electrical problems, or wood rot. And trust us, those issues can be pricey to fix.

For instance, wood rot and mold are sneaky. They can spread before you even know what’s happening, and by the time you catch it, it might be too late. Taking care of hail damage early can save you tons of money and keep your home in top shape.

Handling Hail Roof Damage

Once you’ve determined that your roof has been damaged, it’s important to find a roofing contractor you trust—ideally, one who has experience with insurance claims for hail damage.

Is a hail-damaged roof covered by insurance?

In most cases, yes! A standard homeowners insurance policy will usually cover roof damage caused by hail. However, the way that coverage applies can vary based on where you live, your insurer, and the specifics of your policy.

How long do I have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?

Most insurance companies ask that you file a claim within a year of discovering the hail damage. That’s why it’s smart to get your roof inspected as soon as you suspect any damage. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to review damage assessments and get quotes for repairs.

Can 1 inch hail cause damage to a roof?

Yes! In fact, even hail smaller than 1 inch can cause damage to a roof or to other areas of your house. After a hailstorm, the size of the hail can be the easiest indicator as to what types of damage you may face. While not a foolproof method for predicting storm damage, understanding the various sizes of hail and how they affect your home is a great place to start.

¾” Hail

Though the smallest hail we measure, ¾” hail can still be damaging depending on accompanying wind speeds. Hail this size typically damages vinyl siding, window screens, metal fascia and paint on a deck. We also see it dislodge granules from asphalt shingles and damage gutters and downspouts. Because of its smaller size, property owners often fail to identify the damages associated with hail under one inch.

1” Hail

Once we hit the 1” mark, we start to see bruising to shingle underlayment and significant damage to siding, gutters and fascia. Wind speeds will determine the severity of damage, and you will also see roof damage similar to damage caused by smaller sizes of hail.

1¼” Hail

With only a ¼” increase, the severity of this size of hail is much more significant. Parts of your property exposed to hail have the potential to look like swiss cheese. Even without wind, we’ll see this hail cause damage by simply falling out of the sky.

1½” Hail

This size of hail causes significant damage to property. Depending on the amount of hail, the length of time it falls and the accompanying wind speeds, damage to your property could be severe.

1¾ – 2” Hail

Now we’re getting to the size where the hail can penetrate softer parts of a roof, such as ridge caps or plastic roof vents. Combined with wind, this size of hail can tear siding completely off of a house, crack windows and damage most types of metal fixtures.

2” Hail

Anything this size or above will cause significant and severe damage to your property. We are no longer asking “if” you have property damage, but “where” you have property damage. It’s suggested that you call a roofing contractor with insurance experience immediately after this type of storm event.

Asphalt Shingle Blisters

Shingle blisters are often mistaken for hail damage because they resemble each other visually, but there is a significant difference in the way blisters form. Unlike dented shingles caused by hail, popped blisters protrude off your roof’s surface. Each blister will pop during an extreme weather event, eventually leading to shingle granule loss, leaks, poor gutter drainage, and a drafty attic or house (i.e., energy loss).

Here are the three primary ways roof blistering occurs:

Trapped moisture – If your shingles are installed during wet weather, or moisture gets stuck in the decking or shingles during manufacturing and installation, you could be left with a blister or two (or too many to count). This is because the sun heats the shingles and causes the penetrating water to rise to the roof’s surface in the form of a blister.
Poor attic ventilation – Sun exposure combined with trapped heat in your attic will cause your asphalt shingles to literally boil, leading to blisters that eventually pop and discolor a portion of the shingle.
Environmental impacts – Surprisingly, shingle blistering can also occur if too many sappy trees surround your home. The sap released by tree species such as maple, walnut, and birch can weaken the asphalt’s surface and create shingle blisters over time.

Identifying Shingle Blistering and Hail Damage for Insurance Adjusters

As insurance adjusters, accurately assessing roof damage is critical in determining coverage for homeowners in How to get insurance to pay for roof replacement,. Two of the most common types of roof damage are shingle blistering and hail damage. Although these two types of damage can appear similar at first glance, they differ significantly in their causes, symptoms, and repair processes. This guide provides an in-depth look at both, equipping adjusters with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions.

Understanding Shingle Blistering

What Causes Shingle Blistering?

Shingle blistering occurs due to trapped moisture or gas beneath the shingle surface. As temperatures rise, the gas expands, creating blisters on the surface of the shingles. Over time, this can weaken the shingles and make the roof more susceptible to additional damage, but it is often not immediately hazardous to the structural integrity of the roof.

Key factors that contribute to shingle blistering include:

Poor Ventilation: Inadequate roof ventilation can lead to excessive heat buildup, causing shingle blistering.
Manufacturer Defects: Sometimes, manufacturing defects lead to the inclusion of moisture in the shingle materials, which eventually results in blistering.
Age of Roof: Older roofs with worn shingles are more prone to blistering, especially under prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.

How to Identify Blistering

Blistering is often identified by small, raised bumps on the surface of shingles. These can range in size and may or may not burst over time. When blisters burst, they leave behind pockmarks on the shingle surface, exposing the underlying asphalt. However, it's essential to note that unpopped blisters do not compromise the shingle’s protective layer, whereas burst blisters leave the shingle more vulnerable.

Signs of Shingle Blistering:

Small Raised Bumps: These blisters often look like small bubbles on the surface of the shingles.
Pockmarks on the Shingles: Burst blisters leave behind holes that expose the shingle base.
Localized Damage: Blisters typically affect specific areas rather than the entire roof.

Understanding Hail Damage

What Causes Hail Damage?

Hail damage occurs when hailstones impact the roof, physically damaging the shingles. Unlike blistering, hail damage is caused by an external force rather than internal shingle issues. The severity of the damage depends on the size, density, and velocity of the hailstones, as well as the roof’s age and condition.

Hail can cause various types of damage, including:

Granule Loss: The impact from hailstones can dislodge the granules that protect shingles from UV rays.
Cracks in Shingles: Large hailstones can crack or puncture shingles, leading to leaks and structural damage.
Bruising: Hailstones can cause soft spots on the shingles, weakening their integrity without fully breaking the surface.

How to Identify Hail Damage

Hail damage can be more challenging to identify than blistering, as it often affects multiple areas of the roof and can be confused with general wear and tear. However, hail damage is typically more random and widespread than blistering.

Signs of Hail Damage:

Random Damage Patterns: Unlike blistering, which is localized, hail damage is usually widespread and scattered across the roof.
Granule Loss: Look for areas where the granules are missing, revealing the asphalt layer beneath.
Circular Dents or Cracks: Hail damage often leaves circular dents or cracks on the shingles.
Soft Spots: Pressing on the shingles may reveal bruises or soft spots caused by the impact of hailstones.

Key Differences Between Shingle Blistering and Hail Damage

Visual Differences

Blistering: Small, round blisters that may or may not have burst, leaving pockmarks.
Hail Damage: Irregularly shaped dents, granule loss, and cracks in the shingles.

Cause of Damage

Blistering: Caused by trapped moisture or gas within the shingles.
Hail Damage: Caused by the impact of hailstones on the roof surface.

Affected Areas

Blistering: Typically occurs in specific areas, such as where heat builds up.
Hail Damage: Usually affects large sections of the roof in a random pattern.

Severity

Blistering: May not cause immediate leaks or structural damage unless the blisters burst.
Hail Damage: Can lead to immediate issues such as leaks or weakened shingles, requiring prompt attention.

How to Properly Assess Roof Damage as an Adjuster

When inspecting a roof, insurance adjusters must thoroughly document the condition of the shingles to differentiate between blistering and hail damage. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Inspect the Roof's Surface

Carefully examine the roof for any raised areas or pockmarks. Blisters will present as raised bumps, whereas hail damage will often appear as dents or cracks.

Step 2: Check for Granule Loss

Look for areas where the protective granules are missing. While blistering can sometimes cause minor granule loss, extensive granule loss is more indicative of hail damage.

Step 3: Press for Soft Spots

Use your hands to check for soft or bruised areas. If the surface gives under pressure, it's likely due to hail damage rather than blistering.

Step 4: Document and Photograph the Damage

Take detailed notes and photos of the roof’s condition. This documentation is crucial in determining the appropriate coverage and repair plan.

Step 5: Consult with a Roofing Professional

For complex cases where both blistering and hail damage may be present, it's often helpful to involve a roofing expert who can provide further insight into the best course of action.

Conclusion: Differentiating Between Blistering and Hail Damage

In conclusion, while shingle blistering and hail damage can look similar at first glance, they are caused by different factors and have different implications for the integrity of the roof. Shingle blistering is primarily a cosmetic issue caused by internal shingle problems, whereas hail damage can compromise the roof’s functionality and often requires more immediate attention. By following a systematic approach to roof inspections, insurance adjusters can accurately assess the damage and ensure that homeowners receive the proper coverage for repairs.