What To Do If Your Insurance Denies Your Roof Claim
Homeowners’ insurance comes in handy when a powerful storm damages your roof. Most policyholders can have their insurer cover the cost of repairs or replacement, but some face claim disputes that grind the process to a halt. Do you know what to do if your insurance denies your roof claim?
Discover helpful tips from our experts at Elite Remodeling Services. This guide explores the step-by-step process you should follow in the wake of a claim denial.
Carefully Review Your Policy’s Coverage and Reason for Denial
An insurance company may act in bad faith and refuse to cover your restoration costs without a good reason. More often than not, providers deny claims for valid reasons, including:
- Incomplete or inaccurate documentation
- Damage comes from normal wear and tear
- Missing the filing deadline
- Evidence of a manufacturer’s defect
Underwriting experts evaluate the structure’s age and overall condition to determine coverage eligibility. Older roofs nearing the end of their lifespan pose higher risks of leaks, shingle loss, and other types of damage.
Check your policy coverage limits for a better understanding of valid claims. For example, your insurer might not cover the roof replacement cost if it deteriorates due to a lack of maintenance.
Request a Second Inspection and Team Up With Roofing Contractors
If your insurance denies your roof claim and you want to dispute it, ask them for a second inspection. The representative checking the structure could find damage that was previously overlooked, which is why requesting additional inspections remains helpful.
Hire a reputable roofing contractor who will be present during the inspection. Professionals know how to work with adjusters and can attest to the damage as well as outline the necessary repairs.
To find a qualified roofing company in your area, you should:
- Ask friends and family for personal recommendations.
- Research local contractors specializing in repairing storm-damaged roofs.
- Assess online reviews from past customers.
- Hire a company with years of experience and the proper credentials.
It’s worth seeking a second opinion from a third-party insurance adjuster if you’re adamant that your roof’s condition stems from a covered disaster.
File an Appeal
To dispute a denied claim, homeowners must undergo a formal appeal process. Use photos and other written evidence of damage from your inspections within your appeal. Bear in mind that insurers have deadlines to file an appeal, so check with your provider and act quickly.
The process can be lengthy, so it’s wise to ask your provider for a written resolution date. If you still haven’t received an answer by this date, contact the company for more information. The appeal will either end with a final denial or claim approval.
Issue a Formal Complaint
If your insurance denies your roof claim despite your best intentions to appeal, there are some more steps you can take. Consider filing a formal complaint against the company with state officials. This brings the provider’s liability into question.
You may even opt to take legal action and hire an attorney to address the bad-faith insurance tactics used. Litigation is a last resort for holding the insurer accountable and getting them to cover your roofing costs.
Our Roofers Will Guide You Through the Repair Process
If your insurance denies your roof claim, you don’t have to accept their word. Follow the steps above to appeal and have a trusted contractor on your side. Choose Elite Remodeling Services for reliable repairs when you experience roof damage.
We have over 25 years of industry experience and aid homeowners with storm-related roof damage in Farmington, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Lakeville, and all surrounding cities. Call (952) 646-2480 to schedule a free roof inspection.
