According to the Insurance Information Institute, approximately 1 in 35 insured homes files a property claim related to wind or hail damage. When confronted with unexpected damage, many homeowners become overwhelmed by the insurance claims process; many more fail to recognize the signs of damage in time. Insurance restoration contractors bridge the gap between homeowners and insurers.
They work to make sure that property damage claims are able to be filed properly and cover the full cost of the repairs. Additionally, the contractor carries out the repairs to guarantee an efficient outcome. An insurance restoration contractor works with homeowners to minimize stress during the repair process.
Here are five of the top signs that may mean you need an insurance restoration contractor for your home.
1. Roof and Siding Damage
It’s common knowledge that severe storm events such as windstorms, hailstorms, and heavy rains can damage the roof and siding of a home, necessitating repairs. However, smaller weather events can gradually cause wear and tear that leads to the same damage. If a homeowner is able to recognize the signs of roof damage and contact an insurance restoration contractor before the damage becomes more severe, it is more likely to be less costly and stressful to repair.
Missing, cracked, or curled shingles, cracked siding, or broken vents and gutters are clear signs that the home has been damaged by weather. An insurance restoration contractor can assess the extent of the damage to determine whether the roof needs repairs or a full replacement. The contractor can collaborate with the insurance adjuster to make sure the insurance claim covers the full cost of the needed repair or replacement.
2. Water Damage
Even a small leak can escalate into a serious structural issue, leading to sagging structures, rotting wood, mold growth, rust, and more. Homeowners may notice certain signs indicating a leak, including:
- Water stains on the ceilings
- Peeling or bubbled wallpaper or paint
- Musty smells
- New cracks in the ceilings and walls
- Leaking light fixtures
Any of these signs could indicate hidden water damage that requires a contractor’s immediate attention. Restoration contractors are experienced in thoroughly documenting damage beyond an initial visual inspection, including damage that is not immediately visible.
This includes underlayment, membrane, and structural damage. Without a contractor’s expert guidance, many homeowners underestimate the damage to their home, leading to inadequate insurance compensation. An insurance restoration contractor will identify the source of the leak, determine the full extent of the damage, and make sure the claim covers the full cost of the repairs.
3. Denied Insurance Claims
Homeowners’ insurance claims are often delayed, reduced, or denied for various reasons. Commonly, insurance adjusters cite insufficient documentation for the reduced repair costs or file a counterclaim that the weather event in question was not responsible for the damage.
Insurance restoration contractors provide adequate documentation and inspections to make sure homeowners can make their claims confidently. Their repair estimates are always based on detailed inspections, which are more difficult for insurance adjusters to dispute. If you have had multiple claims denied or delayed, this is a good sign that you need the expertise of an insurance restoration contractor to add authority to your claims.
4. Old Materials
Repairs are less complicated to finance and carry out on newer homes since their materials are likely still in production. On older or heritage homes, the roof, siding, or gutters may not be available anymore. When this happens, homeowners may have difficulty valuing their repairs or finding the right materials, which can lead to insurance claim delays. Homeowners often compromise with subpar materials to complete their repairs within the insurer’s guidelines.
Experienced insurance restoration contractors can recognize and resolve these challenges. If their inspection reveals out of production materials, they can advise homeowners on filing for full material replacements rather than repairs. Many contractors even offer material upgrades at no extra cost to guarantee that homes are restored with durable, equivalent materials that will retain their value for many years.
5. Limited Time
Delaying repairs can lead to further damage and increased repair costs. Homeowners need to recognize, inspect, and schedule their roof repairs quickly; however, many homeowners delay the process or fail to document the damage properly.
Insurance restoration contractors streamline communication between homeowners and insurers to get repairs completed in a timely manner. The longer you wait, the more likely it will be that the insurance adjusters deny or alter your claim.
Reach Out to Our Expert Insurance Restoration Contractors
Recognizing these signs of needing an insurance restoration contractor’s services can save homeowners time, money, and stress with their insurance claims and repair process. Regardless of the extent of the damage, expert contractors help homeowners properly restore their homes and get the best possible coverage from their insurers.
Contact Expert Exteriors to schedule an inspection with an experienced insurance restoration contractor. Our experienced team starts with a thorough inspection to spot the signs of roof damage and begin the process of filing your claim and delivering repairs.