In 2019, more than 7.1 million properties in America were affected by hail damage. For homeowners that face weather-related damage, one of the questions that always comes up is how long do I have to make a claim?
In general, you should file a claim for hail damage as soon as possible, although one year is the standard time limit for filing an insurance claim. However, this timeline may be different depending on the type of policy you have and your provider.
How to Identify Hail Damage to Your Roof
As builders ourselves, we know that it's important to know how to identify hail damage to your roof. This can give you a stronger bargaining position with your insurance provider, and help you get the most out of your claim.
Hail damage is usually easy to spot if it's present. Common signs include:
- Dents in metal roofing
- Cracks or splits on shingles
- Discolored/worn patches in asphalt shingles
- Missing granules or exposed fiberglass mat in asphalt shingles
- Damaged skylights and other openings
If you suspect your roof may have hail damage, it's important to get a professional inspection. A qualified inspector can accurately identify the signs of hail damage and provide documentation for your insurance claim.
Determining the Extent of the Damage
Aside from the common signs a homeowner can spot, it's important to have your roof inspected by a professional in order to determine the extent of the damage.
A professional inspector will be able to conduct a full inspection of your roof and any other structures that may have been damaged. They can also provide evidence for your insurance claim, including photos, diagrams, and measurements.
You can also obtain estimates from roofing contractors to determine the extent of the damage and know how much it will cost to repair or replace the damaged roof.
Filing a Claim for Hail Damage
After the inspection, it's time to file a claim with your insurance provider. To do this, you'll need to provide the inspection report and any other required documents.
Your insurance provider will then review your claim and decide on an amount they are willing to pay for damages. It is important to take your time when filing a hail damage claim. Don't be afraid to ask questions and make sure that all the damage is documented. Take note of all important factors such as the date and time of the inspection, and any additional information that could be useful in your claim.
The founder of Bulldog Builders, Wes Kitto, has 25 years of property claim experience. He worked as a claims adjuster for both insurance carriers and as a public adjuster. Feel free to contact us if you need help with your claim. We have the expertise to help you get the best possible outcome.
Limitations on Hail Damage Claims
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to hail damage claims. Every situation is unique, and the timeline for filing a claim may vary depending on the type of policy you have and your provider.
Make sure to check with your insurance provider as soon as possible within the time limits for filing a claim. It is important to remember that most providers have time limitations on claims, and if you wait too long, you may not be able to get the compensation you deserve for your hail damage roof repairs.
As mentioned, one year from the date of the damage is the standard time limit for filing an insurance claim. However, it's important to note that some providers may have different policies, so make sure to contact them directly and ask about any specific limitations on hail damage claims.
Work With a Trusted Roofing Contractor
To get the most out of your insurance claim, it is important to consider hiring a trusted Wisconsin roofing contractor that specializes in hail damage roof replacement. Bulldog Builders has been in the business of roof replacement since 2013, serving communities all over south-eastern Wisconsin, including Oconomowoc, New Berlin, Waukesha, and Brookfield.
With our 15-man crew, we can turn a multi-day project into a one-day roof replacement. You can rest assured that we will deliver the same level of quality and service in a timeframe that suits your schedule.
We also provide a free roofing quote and inspection, so you can get an estimate of the cost to repair or replace your roof. Give us a call at (262) 933-8777 today to get started!
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