“Do’s and Don’ts” of A Hail Damage Insurance Claim

If your home has been damaged by hail, exposure to the elements may greatly increase the amount of damage to your home. Many insurance policies limit your time to file a claim, so don't wait until you have water dripping through the ceiling, mold in the attic, or your roof caves in to call your insurance company. At that point, it may be too late to file a valid storm damage claim.

Millersberg has seen countless homeowners fail to act appropriately after a hail storm.  Mistakes like that can cost someone thousands. Because life’s too short to make all of the mistakes yourself, allow us to share the dos and don’ts of homeowner’s hail damage insurance claims.

DO get out a copy of your homeowner’s insurance policy and carefully read the coverage you have.  Should you need to file a claim, have the policy handy so that you understand what you are entitled to in terms of compensation. DON’T navigate the insurance claims process by yourself. Without experience, trying to file a homeowner’s insurance claim for hail damage can be lengthy, time consuming and very stressful. Furthermore, it’s not uncommon for insurance companies to offer low-ball estimates to homeowners who find out later it’s not enough to cover the cost of repairs. Make sure to choose a storm restoration contractor with experience in insurance claims like Millersberg to assist help you if you have to file a claim. DO get a professional inspection by a storm restoration contractor right away. This holds true especially if a large geographical area was affected as most contractors and insurance companies operate on a first come, first serve basis.  In the north, where winter affects the ability to safely install a roof, this can mean the difference between getting your roof installed in the fall or the following spring. DON’T call your insurance company first. A professional roofing company will be able to inspect your roof and assess any damages. This will prevent a claim being made on your policy if you don’t have any damage or if only small repairs need to be made and don’t warrant a full claim. DO choose a storm restoration contractor. Because hail and storm damage can be hard to spot not any roofer may be up to the job of providing a valid roof inspection after a storm. The last thing you want to happen is to be told “your roof is fine” only to have hail damage cause leaks and costly repairs later because it was missed. DON’T feel forced to use a contractor referred to you by the insurance company.  Oftentimes, their motivation is to complete the work as cheaply as possible, using subpar materials and shortcuts.  Hiring your own contractor means that their incentive is to satisfy you over your insurance company.

 

Why Choose Millersberg?

Unpredictable storms create unpredictable problems. That’s why it’s important to choose the right roofing and siding professional to inspect the integrity of your home after a storm. It’s important to find someone who is local, properly certified, efficient, courteous, and available to complete your warranty work. All of which you’ll find working with Millersberg Construction. Contact us today at 507-301-3626 to request a free, no-obligation inspection or use our online contact form!