5 questions all insurance agents ask about commercial roofs
What do you say when you file an insurance claim on your commercial roof?
If your roof recently suffered storm or structural damage, you may need to file an insurance claim. Knowing how much deductible you have to pay is important, but you also want to know what other information they may require of you. Here are five big questions every insurance agent should ask when you consider filing an insurance claim:
1. How old is your roof?
Some states regulate how old a roof has to be before any damage constitutes a complete tear-off and replacement. If your roof is only a year or two old, minor damage may be repaired without needing to replace the entire roof. If you’re unsure how old your roof is, an insurance adjuster or roofing contractor may use a flex test on your shingle strength to estimate your roof’s age.
2. When did the damage happen?
This is very important: insurance companies rely on the specific “date of loss” to determine whether your insurance claim fits a specific window of time, usually twelve months. Check with your insurance provider sooner rather than later to see if your claim is still covered under your policy. It’s usually best to just evaluate the damage, obtain estimates, and file your insurance claim, if necessary, at the first opportunity.
3. Is there other damage besides the roof?
Even if you can’t see additional damage to your building, it doesn’t mean everything is secure. A detailed inspection by a trusted roofing contractor, like R&A Contracting, will give you peace of mind that your building didn’t sustain further damage than you might realize. If there is additional damage, it will need to be processed with your roof insurance claim.
4. Have you talked with any roofing contractors?
Many insurance providers recommend you get at least three estimates from verified roofing contractors who have experience working with insurance companies. A good rule of thumb is that if a roofing contractor is knocking at your door, it means they’re not busy working on someone else’s roof… and there’s probably a reason why. Use local, trusted roofing contractors and verify their credentials using this checklist.
5. When can an adjuster come inspect the damage?
The sooner, the better. It’s amazing how quickly good roofing contractors get busy after a significant storm moves through St. Louis. As we mentioned before, there is a 12-month window where you can file an insurance claim due to hail damage, but again, it’s worth double-checking with your insurance provider to be sure.
If your roof recently suffered storm or structural damage, our R&A Contracting is offering a free, no-obligation roof inspection. We welcome you to ask any questions you may have to ensure your roof receives the attention it deserves. We’re R&A Contracting and we’re here to serve you.