Common Mistakes Homeowners Make With Roof Insurance Claims
Roof insurance claims can be straightforward if you know what you are doing or expensive headaches if you do not. We see homeowners make the same mistakes over and over, and most of them are easy to avoid once you know what to watch for.
Here are the most common roof insurance claim mistakes and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Filing a Claim Without an Inspection First
Some homeowners file a claim the moment a storm passes. The problem is that not every storm causes claim worthy damage, and a claim with no payout still goes on your record. Multiple claims with no payouts can affect your insurability and your rates.
The fix. Get a free roof inspection from a trusted local roofer before you call your insurance company. If there is real damage, file. If not, do not.
Mistake 2: Waiting Too Long to File
Most insurance policies have a time limit for filing claims, often one year from the date of the storm. Wait too long and you lose the right to claim.
The fix. If you have storm damage, get inspected and decide whether to file within a few weeks of the event. Do not let the months slide by.
Mistake 3: Letting the Adjuster Inspect Without Your Roofer Present
Insurance adjusters look at hundreds of roofs. Sometimes damage gets overlooked. When your roofer is on the roof with the adjuster, important details get pointed out and documented.
The fix. Schedule your roofer to be there at the same time as the adjuster. Most adjusters appreciate having the roofer present because it speeds up the process.
Mistake 4: Accepting the First Scope of Loss Without Review
The Scope of Loss is the document the insurance company sends listing what they will pay for. It often misses items needed for a proper installation, including drip edge, ice and water shield, code required upgrades, ventilation components, and tear off charges.
The fix. Have your roofer review the Scope of Loss before you accept it. Missing items can be added through a supplement.
Mistake 5: Picking a Contractor Who Offers to Waive Your Deductible
This is illegal in Georgia. Any contractor offering to absorb or waive your deductible is asking you to participate in insurance fraud. They are also signaling that they cut corners in other ways.
The fix. Plan to pay your deductible. A reputable contractor will be straightforward about this from the start.
Mistake 6: Hiring a Storm Chaser
Out of state contractors who flood the area after a storm often offer aggressive promises and disappear when problems show up. Their workmanship warranties are essentially worthless because they are not in your area to honor them.
The fix. Hire a local roofer with a real address, real reviews from your area, and a proven track record. They will be here years after the install if you need warranty work.
Mistake 7: Signing a Contract That Gives Away Your Rights
Some contractors use contracts that include language giving them broad authority to negotiate with your insurance, file supplements, and act on your behalf. Read every contract carefully. You should always retain control over your claim and your insurance relationship.
The fix. Read everything. If the contract gives away rights you are not comfortable with, do not sign. A reputable contractor will explain what they need and what they do not.
Mistake 8: Doing the Work Before the Claim Is Approved
Some homeowners get the work done before insurance approves the claim. The risk is that if the insurance does not cover everything, you are stuck paying out of pocket.
The fix. Wait for approval before scheduling the work, except in true emergency situations. Emergency tarping is fine and often required to prevent additional damage.
Mistake 9: Not Understanding RCV vs ACV
Most policies pay in two parts. The first check is the Actual Cash Value, which is the depreciated value minus your deductible. The second check is the Recoverable Depreciation, which is released after the work is completed and the invoice is submitted. Some homeowners see the first check, think that is all they get, and either skip the depreciation collection or feel cheated by the smaller amount.
The fix. Understand that the first check is partial. The depreciation portion comes after the install. Together with your deductible they should equal the full Replacement Cost Value.
Mistake 10: Not Keeping Documentation
Insurance claims generate a lot of paperwork. Estimates, contracts, photos, scopes of loss, supplements, invoices, communication records. If you do not keep it organized, disputes that come up later are harder to resolve.
The fix. Keep everything in one folder, either physical or digital. Save every email and document.
How Roofing Georgia Helps
We walk homeowners through the entire claims process. We do free inspections, meet with adjusters, document everything, handle supplements, and make sure you get a quality roof at the end of the process.
If you have storm damage, call Roofing Georgia at 770-874-7663 or visit roofinggeorgia.com for a free inspection.