|
Hail Storm Myths and misconceptions
and things to look out for:
Myths about Hail DamageMyth: I looked at my roof and didn't see any problems, or my roofer inspected it and there are no problems. Fact: Roofing systems must be physically inspected by someone who has training and experience to determine if there is actual hail damage. Insurance companies send their adjusters to special training so they can properly identify hail damage to property; unfortunately there is not much ongoing training for the roofing or home inspection industries. Myth: My insurance company requires me to get at least 3 bids Fact: Most insurance policies are for full replacement value. This means that the insurance has to pay for the exact roof you have. Insurance companies want the lowest bidder. By law, you have the right to select ANY roofing company you choose to deal with. Do you really want to lowest bidder working on your home when you can have it done right for the same deductible? Myth: I'm not missing any shingles so I must not have damage. Fact: Missing shingles are related to wind damage claims and can happen during a hail storm if the winds are high enough. However hail damage is insidious in nature and may not physically cause leakage for years after a hail storm. Myth: I only have 1 year to file my insurance claim. Fact: Many insurance companies do have a one year time limit and some even less, however due to the nature of hail damage they may pay claims past the deadline. This usually happens if a hail storm is widespread geographically. Myth: My roof is new so it's covered by the manufacturer's warranty, home builder, or contractor. Fact: Manufacturer's specifically name hail as an exclusion to their product warranty, so do home builders and roofing contractors. Newer roofs can actually be more susceptible to hail damage versus older roofs due to the time it takes a new roof to cure from exposure to the elements. Myth: I was told my roof has minimal or very little damage and therefore I don't need to file a claim. Fact: If your roof has any damage what-so-ever you have a valid insurance claim and should file with your insurance company. Damage might not cause your roof to leak for years. This is why it's important to have a qualified person inspect your roof. Myth: My insurance company will cancel my policy if I file a claim. Fact: Most states prohibit insurance companies from cancelling policies for filing claims arising from severe weather related events. Check with your state however and your policy language as well. Myth: Filing a claim will make my insurance rates go up. Fact: After a disaster, insurance companies may raise every one's rates. By not filing your claim, your personal rate increase is paying for every one else's damage except yours. Filing a claim after a natural disaster will not single you out for a rate increase as it is considered an act of God. Myth: Roofers need a down payment or money up front. Fact: BEWARE of any roofing company requires a down payment of over $250. Any roofer who has been in business for any length of time has credit lines. The only time a down payment is acceptable is if the material is special order or if yours is an exceptionally large job (100 squares or greater)
Myth: Getting money back or having my roofer cover my deductible is insurance fraud. Fact: This is true and could land both of you in jail. Getting back to normal will take some time, but taking the right steps will make it easier and speed up the process. If you need emergency services such as tarping to prevent leaking, debris removal or if you need an entire roof replacement, please contact us. |
|