The Claim Game – What Homeowners Should Know

Insurance claims are a growing part of the roofing industry. A knowledgeable roofing contractor understands that knowing the insurance claim game is important for their customers – and not just after a storm has passed. MidSouth Construction is well versed in the insurance adjusting game. We speak the language of insurance and can help our customers navigate down the confusing path of homeowner insurance claims.

The Claim Game – What Homeowners Should Know

 

Our experienced project managers can make sure our customers get the roof they need – including everything that should be covered by the insurance carrier – with minimum stress and interruption.
This expertise can make a huge difference when homeowners are choosing a roofing company, especially after a storm. The peace of mind provided by a knowledgeable contractor can be priceless.

 

Nashville’s Roofing Contractors Rated Master Elite

 

As Nashville’s Master Elite Roofing Contractors, we have counseled many anxious homeowners regarding their insurance claims. We’ve seen a wide range of emotions from customers impacted by traumatic situations. It isn’t uncommon for us to speak with homeowners who truly have no idea what to do, or how they are going to build back their life. In severe storms, or fire damage situations, we’ve even see homeowners cry simply because they were so overwhelmed. They have no idea what they’re going to do, and may not have the money to put on a new roof or build back their home. Since they are unaware of how the insurance claim process works, being faced with these thoughts is just stifling.

This business was originally founded on working with people devastated by storms and helping them rebuild their lives. We know how to make the insurance claim process work for our customers.
For instance, we always make sure the drip edge is included and a part of the claim. According to most state and county building codes in our area, the drip edge should be replaced when a new roof is installed. Even if there is no existing drip edge, it should be provided by insurance and a covered expense since it is a code endorsement. Knowing how to talk to insurance companies means we can make sure that drip edge, and all other necessities are covered.

What really helps our company work well with all insurance carriers is our expertise at using Xactimate. This is the same estimating software most insurance companies use. By understanding both building codes and the Xactimate program, we can ensure that homeowners receive all money that is owed on their claim. By maximizing the insurance claim we can guarantee that there is enough money to install a top quality roofing system, or restoration project, without cutting corners. We find that most insurance claims need to be adjusted – sometimes minor and sometimes major adjustments need to be made. Knowing the ins and outs of the claim game and how to communicate with the insurance carrier is critical to the homeowner.

 

Know When To Wait

 

Don’t make the mistake of contacting your insurance company and opening a property damage claim simply because a storm has passed and your neighbors are doing it! We strongly encourage you to always have your roof inspected by a qualified roofing contractor for wind or hail damage first. It is very important to verify your loss and document damages before you open a claim. An unnecessary insurance claim can also go against your insurance if it is denied.

You should also be aware of your deductible! Some insurance companies use a percentage deductible for roofing. If that is the case, you need to make sure that your roof damage warrants a full roof replacement and not a repair. More importantly, you may be eligible to receive a complete roof replacement but will need a knowledgeable contractor to represent you with the insurance adjuster. It is always helpful to have a contactor on site during the roof inspection by the insurance company.

Just because a hail or wind storm has not impacted your home recently, your damage may still be covered! We are able to determine every negative weather event that has impacted your home. If we find hail or wind damage, we may also be aware of a damaging storm that meets your insurance company’s criteria and statue of limitations! Hail damage and wind damage can occur unbeknown to the property owner! We speak the language of insurance and will help you determine if your damage will support filing a claim.

 

Tips for Homeowners

 

  • Know whether you have an RCV (replacement cost) or ACV (actual cost) policy!
  • Know what your deductible is
  • Understand that an insurance estimate is just an “estimate.” This amount may need to be supplemented by a qualified contractor and will change.
  • You have the right to work with any contractor you select
  • You do not need to obtain three estimates!
  • If you select a contractor who provides a “lower estimate” than the insurance company then the insurance company lowers their estimate. The homeowner cannot keep this money.
  • Verify that any contractor your are using is licensed with the TN Board of Contractors
  • Verify that any contractor you are hiring is a member of the BBB
  • Confirm that they are certified with the roofing manufacturers – such as GAF, Carlisle, CertainTeed.
  • Verify that the contractor is fully insured with both work comp and general liability

We provide free roofing inspections for homeowners all across Middle Tennessee including Brenwood, Antioch, Green Hills, Franklin, Nashville, Goodlettsville, Gallatin, Hendersonville, Joelton, LaVergne, Murfreesboro, Rockvale, Springfield, Spring Hill, Smyrna, Whites Creek – and any of the surrounding areas! Please call us at 615-712-8893 or request a quote online. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to earn your business!