At Spartan StormShield, we’ve seen firsthand how challenging it can be for homeowners to navigate the insurance process for roof replacement. However, with our experience and expertise, we’ve successfully helped many clients get their insurance to cover the cost of a new roof. Here’s how we approach the process to ensure the best outcome for our customers.
1. Thorough Documentation from the Start
When we receive a call from a homeowner after a storm, the first thing we do is schedule an inspection to assess the damage. During this inspection, we take clear, detailed photographs of all the affected areas, including damaged shingles, soft metals, and any other signs of impact. These photos are crucial for building a strong case when submitting an insurance claim. We ensure that the documentation is thorough so that the insurance company has a clear picture of the extent of the damage.
2. Helping Homeowners Understand Their Policy Coverage
We always make it a point to help our clients understand what their insurance policy covers. Most policies owe for “direct physical damage,” meaning they will cover the cost to repair or replace the specific parts of the roof that were damaged. We explain to the homeowner how factors like the age of the shingles, the type of materials, and the availability of those materials can affect the claim. By ensuring they’re well-informed, our clients can approach their insurance company with confidence.
3. Providing Expert Assessments Before Filing a Claim
Before you file a claim, we perform a thorough inspection to determine the extent of the damage. This step is crucial because it helps prevent filing a claim that might not be necessary, which can save you from potential premium increases. We provide an honest assessment of whether the damage is significant enough to warrant a full roof replacement or if smaller repairs will suffice.
4. Navigating the Burden of Proof
It’s important to understand that the burden of proof is on you – the homeowner – not the insurance company. This means the insurance company will often try to minimize their payout by offering to cover smaller repairs rather than a full roof replacement. We work closely with homeowners in Northeast Ohio to gather all necessary evidence and make a strong case for why a full replacement is needed. This often involves multiple inspections, additional photographs, and expert opinions.
5. Guiding Clients Through Negotiations
Insurance companies will typically exhaust every possibility before agreeing to a full roof replacement. We help our clients navigate the back-and-forth negotiations, ensuring that every detail is addressed. Whether it’s matching shingles or determining the extent of the damage, we’re there every step of the way to advocate for our clients’ best interests.
6. Ensuring Proper Matching of Shingles
One of the key factors in getting insurance to cover a full roof replacement is the ability to match the damaged shingles with the existing ones. If the damaged shingles can’t be reasonably matched, it often means the insurance company will need to cover the replacement of larger sections or even the entire roof. We make sure to provide all the necessary evidence to demonstrate when a full replacement is the only viable option.
7. Leveraging Third-Party Verification When Necessary
In some cases, we may need to involve third-party verification to support the claim. For example, sending a damaged shingle to a laboratory like ITEL for testing can provide concrete evidence regarding the manufacturer and the availability of matching materials. This additional step can be crucial in cases where the insurance company is hesitant to approve a full roof replacement.
8. Working with the Ohio Administrative Codes
For homeowners in Northeast Ohio, specific sections of the Ohio Administrative Code, such as the “Unfair Property Claims Settlement Practices,” can influence how insurance claims are handled. We make sure our clients are aware of these codes and how they can be used to support their claim. By understanding the local laws and regulations, we can better advocate for our clients and ensure they receive the coverage they’re entitled to.
9. Persistence and Advocacy
Getting insurance to pay for a new roof can be a lengthy and sometimes frustrating process, but persistence pays off. We stay committed to our clients throughout the entire process, from the initial inspection to the final approval. Our goal is to ensure that our clients get the full coverage they deserve without unnecessary delays or complications.
10. Comprehensive Support Throughout the Process
At Spartan StormShield, we pride ourselves on being there for our clients every step of the way. From the initial inspection to the final installation, we provide comprehensive support and clear communication. We make sure our clients understand each stage of the process and know exactly what to expect, giving them peace of mind and confidence that their roof is in good hands.
