When your roof is damaged, it can be hard to know what to do first. Should you call your insurance company to see if they’ll help cover the cost, or is it better to contact a roofing company to get the damage assessed? Choosing the right first step can make a big difference in how smoothly repairs go, how much they cost, and how quickly your home is protected again. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you decide who to call first when your roof needs repair.
1. Types of Roof Damage and How They Affect Insurance
Understanding the type of damage is key to making the right decision. There are generally two types of roof issues:
- Storm Damage: This includes damage from things like high winds, hail, hurricanes, or falling tree branches. Since these events are sudden and unexpected, they’re usually covered by homeowner’s insurance.
- Wear and Tear: This is damage that happens over time from normal weather, aging, or lack of maintenance. Insurance usually doesn’t cover wear and tear because it’s considered the homeowner’s responsibility.
Knowing which type of damage you have helps you decide whether to reach out to insurance first or go straight to a roofer.
2. Why You Might Want to Call Your Insurance Company First
For major, unexpected damage (like a tree falling on your roof after a storm), it’s usually smart to call your insurance company first. Here’s why:
A. Insurance Will Check if It’s Covered
When you call your insurance provider first, they’ll send an adjuster to look at the damage and determine if it qualifies for a claim under your policy. This step can save you from paying out of pocket if the repair is covered. Many policies also have time limits for filing claims, so it’s good to call right away for big issues.
B. Avoid Unapproved Repairs
If you get repairs done before contacting your insurance company, they might not cover the costs. They may require an inspection first to see the damage for themselves, so starting with a call to them can help make sure you’re reimbursed.
C. Access to Approved Contractors
Your insurance company may work with a network of roofing contractors they trust. This can speed up the repair process and help avoid conflicts over cost and repair quality since these contractors are familiar with insurance requirements.
D. Handling Urgent Repairs
If the damage is severe (like a hole that’s letting in rain), go ahead and make a temporary fix, like covering it with a tarp, to prevent further damage. Be sure to document everything with photos before and after and keep receipts for any costs, as insurance will likely reimburse you for necessary temporary repairs.
When to Contact Insurance First
You should call your insurance company first when:
- The damage is clearly related to a major storm, falling tree, or similar covered event.
- You’re not sure if it’s covered but think it might be.
- Immediate temporary repairs are needed to prevent further issues.
3. Why You Might Want to Call a Roofing Company First
In some cases, calling a roofing company first might actually save you time and effort, especially if you’re not sure whether the damage is significant enough to file an insurance claim. Here’s how reaching out to a roofing contractor first can help:
A. Get a Quick, Professional Opinion
Most roofing companies will do a basic inspection, often free of charge or at a low cost, to let you know the extent of the damage. They can tell you if it’s minor damage that may not be worth an insurance claim or if it’s something more significant.
B. Advice on Whether to File a Claim
Experienced roofers often know what insurance adjusters look for and can advise you on whether the damage is likely to be covered. If they spot clear storm damage, they can also help you gather evidence to make your claim stronger.
C. Avoid Potential Rate Increases
If the damage is minor, it might be cheaper to pay for it yourself rather than involving insurance. Filing frequent or small claims can lead to higher premiums, so a roofer’s opinion on the damage can help you decide if it’s worth filing a claim.
D. Faster Repairs
Roofing companies may be able to get to your home faster, especially after a big storm when insurance companies are dealing with many claims at once. If the issue is minor and you just want it fixed quickly, a roofing company might be able to handle it right away.
When to Contact a Roofing Company First
You should reach out to a roofing company first when:
- The damage appears small or could be regular wear and tear.
- You’re not sure if it’s serious enough for insurance.
- You want a fast opinion to decide if you should involve insurance at all.
4. Working with Both Insurance and Roofing Companies
Sometimes, it makes sense to involve both insurance and a roofing contractor. Many roofers are experienced in working with insurance adjusters and can help ensure nothing is missed during the inspection. A roofer can even be there when the insurance adjuster comes to assess the damage, making sure you get a fair and accurate evaluation.
If you’re working with both, avoid contractors who insist on repairs or replacements before insurance approval, as this could leave you paying for work that might not get covered.
5. Quick Steps for Filing a Roofing Claim
Here’s a quick rundown of what to do when you’re filing a roofing claim:
- Document the Damage: Take photos from different angles to fully capture the damage.
- Report to Insurance: If the damage is significant, report it to your insurance company quickly. Ask if they need an inspection before any repairs.
- Schedule the Adjuster: Your insurance company will send an adjuster to evaluate the damage. If possible, have your roofing contractor there to provide their input.
- Get Roofing Quotes: Even if your insurance has preferred contractors, it’s smart to get a couple of quotes to make sure you’re getting a fair price.
- Temporary Repairs: Do what’s needed to prevent more damage, like covering holes with a tarp, and save receipts.
- Complete Repairs: Once your claim is approved, work with a licensed roofing contractor to get the job done.
Final Thoughts
Deciding who to call first—your insurance company or a roofing contractor—depends on the nature of the damage. For sudden, major issues like storm damage, it’s usually best to contact your insurance first. But for minor damage or if you’re not sure it’s worth a claim, start with a roofing company to assess the situation.
Understanding your insurance policy, documenting the damage, and getting professional opinions will help you make the right choice, avoid unnecessary costs, and protect your home. This approach can make roof repairs or replacement much less stressful and help you get your roof back in shape without surprises.
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