High Point Roofing Roof Insurance Claims: Your Complete Guide from a 15-Year Roofing Contractor
I have been installing and repairing roofs in the High Point area for over fifteen years. During that time, I have completed more than 1,200 roofing projects. I hold certifications from major manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning. I have helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the confusing world of roof insurance claims. This article exists because I have seen too many good people get short-changed by their insurance company. They do not understand the process. They feel overwhelmed after storm damage. My goal is to change that. I want to give you the knowledge I share with my own customers. This guide will help you get the full, fair settlement you deserve for your damaged roof.
The information here comes from my direct experience. It is based on hundreds of actual insurance claim projects in High Point and the Triad region. I have reviewed countless insurance policies and worked with many adjusters. I have studied manufacturer installation instructions and local building codes. My recommendations are not theory. They are proven methods that have worked for real homeowners facing real roof damage. I will explain the entire process clearly. I will show you where problems happen. I will give you practical steps to protect your home and your investment.
Understanding Roof Damage and Insurance Coverage
Not all roof damage is covered by insurance. Knowing the difference is your first step. Insurance typically covers sudden, accidental damage. This includes damage from wind, hail, and falling trees. It does not cover normal wear and tear or lack of maintenance. A 20-year-old roof that simply wears out is not an insurance claim. But a 10-year-old roof with recent hail damage likely is. The key is identifying the cause of the damage correctly.
Common Types of Storm Damage in High Point
Our region faces specific weather threats. High winds from thunderstorms can lift and tear shingles. Hailstorms create circular bruises on asphalt shingles. These bruises break the protective granules. This leads to premature aging and leaks. Falling tree limbs can puncture the roof deck. Heavy rain can exploit any weakness and cause interior water damage. You must document all damage thoroughly. Take clear photos from the ground and, if safe, from a ladder. Note the date of the storm. Your insurance company will need this proof.
What Your Homeowners Policy Really Covers
Your insurance policy is a contract. You must understand its terms. Most policies are "replacement cost value" (RCV) or "actual cash value" (ACV). An RCV policy pays to replace your roof with new materials of similar quality. It does not deduct for the age of your old roof. An ACV policy pays the replacement cost minus depreciation. This means you get less money for an older roof. You should review your policy's declarations page. Look for your deductible amount and coverage limits. Know if you have special wind or hail deductibles. These are often a percentage of your home's insured value. They can be much higher than your standard deductible.
The Step-by-Step Insurance Claim Process
Following the right steps is crucial for a successful claim. Do not rush to call a roofer who knocks on your door after a storm. First, protect your property from further damage. This is called "mitigation." Cover any holes with a tarp. Move belongings away from leaks. Insurance companies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent more damage. Keep all receipts for temporary repairs. Your insurer may reimburse you for these costs.
Step 1: Initial Documentation and Contact
Start by documenting the damage safely. Take wide shots of your property. Take close-up photos of damaged shingles, gutters, and siding. Write down everything you see. Then, contact your insurance company to start a claim. They will assign you a claim number and an adjuster. Be polite but factual when describing the damage. Do not guess at the cause. Simply state what happened and what you observed. For example, "A severe thunderstorm with high winds and hail passed through on July 15th. I now see missing shingles and granules in my gutters."
Step 2: The Insurance Adjuster's Inspection
The insurance adjuster will inspect your roof. They work for the insurance company. Their job is to assess the damage and write an estimate for repairs. It is in your best interest to have a licensed roofing contractor present during this inspection. A good roofer can point out damage the adjuster might miss. They understand construction details and local building codes. The adjuster will write an estimate using software like Xactimate. This estimate details the scope and cost of the repair. Do not accept this as the final word. It is often a starting point for negotiation.
Step 3: Getting Your Own Roofing Estimate
You should get at least two detailed estimates from reputable, local roofing contractors. Choose companies with strong references and proper licensing. A good estimate should be a line-item document. It should list all necessary work and materials. It should match the quality standards of manufacturers like GAF or Owens Corning. Compare the contractor's estimate to the insurance adjuster's estimate. Look for missing items. Common omissions include proper underlayment, ice and water shield in valleys, and code-required ventilation. Your contractor can help you submit a supplement to the insurance company for these missing costs.
Working with a Roofing Contractor on an Insurance Job
Your choice of contractor is critical. You need a partner, not just a vendor. A good contractor will guide you through the insurance process. They will communicate with the adjuster on your behalf. They will handle the supplement requests. They will ensure the work meets all building codes and manufacturer specifications. This protects your warranty.
Red Flags and Warning Signs
Be very careful of storm chasers. These are out-of-town contractors who follow storms. They often offer to pay your deductible or give you a cash incentive. This is illegal in North Carolina. It is insurance fraud. They use high-pressure sales tactics. They may ask you to sign a document assigning your insurance benefits to them. Do not do this without legal advice. Choose a local company with a physical address. Verify their license and insurance. Check reviews on the Better Business Bureau website. A trustworthy contractor will never ask you to commit fraud.
The Role of a Public Adjuster
In complex or high-value claims, you might hire a public adjuster. They work for you, not the insurance company. They charge a percentage of the final settlement (usually 10-20%). They can be very helpful if your claim is denied or severely underpaid. However, for most standard hail or wind claims, a knowledgeable roofing contractor can often achieve a fair settlement without this extra cost. Consider a public adjuster if you face a major dispute or a total loss scenario.
Materials, Codes, and Quality Installation
The insurance company owes to restore your home to its pre-loss condition. For a roof, this means using materials of "like kind and quality." If you had a dimensional asphalt shingle, they should pay for a comparable one. You may also have the right to upgrade if your old material is no longer available or does not meet current building codes. This is called a "code upgrade." For example, if your roof decking is 1x6 boards and current code requires plywood or OSB, the upgrade may be covered.
Understanding Depreciation and Recoverable Cash
If you have an RCV policy, the payment comes in two parts. First, you receive the actual cash value (ACV). This is the replacement cost minus depreciation. Depreciation is based on the age and expected lifespan of your old roof. The second part is called "recoverable depreciation." You receive this money after the work is complete and the insurance company receives the final invoice. Your contractor must complete the job exactly as described in the approved estimate to trigger this final payment. Keep all paperwork organized.
Manufacturer Warranties and Insurance Claims
A new roof should come with a strong warranty. Manufacturer warranties, like the GAF Golden Pledge, require certified installation by a factory-trained contractor. Using a certified installer ensures the warranty is valid. It also means the installation meets the highest standards. Some warranties even include workmanship coverage. This is valuable protection. Make sure your chosen contractor is certified by the shingle manufacturer. This adds significant value to your insurance-funded roof replacement.
Real Project Case Studies from High Point
Let me share real examples from my work. These show how the process works in practice. Names and specific addresses are changed for privacy.
Case Study 1: Hail Damage Supplement
A homeowner in southwest High Point had a hail storm. The insurance adjuster wrote an estimate for a simple shingle replacement. My inspection found cracked vent flashings and dented gutter guards. The adjuster's estimate did not include these items. We documented the additional damage with photos and measurements. We submitted a detailed supplement request. The insurance company approved it. The final settlement increased by $2,800. The homeowner got a complete roof system repair, not just new shingles.
Case Study 2: Wind Damage and Code Upgrades
An older home in the Emerywood area lost shingles in a wind storm. The insurance estimate was for a basic repair. However, the existing roof deck was 1x6 boards with large gaps. Current North Carolina building codes require a solid deck for new asphalt shingles. We submitted documentation showing the code requirement. The insurance company agreed to pay for a full roof deck replacement with code-compliant plywood. This was a significant upgrade covered under the policy's "law and ordinance" provision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Should I file a claim for a few missing shingles?
It depends on your deductible and the extent of the damage. If the repair cost is only slightly above your deductible, filing a claim may not be wise. Multiple small claims can lead to higher premiums or non-renewal. Have a trusted roofer inspect the damage first. Get a repair estimate. Then decide if filing a claim makes financial sense for your specific situation.
2. Can I keep the insurance money and not repair the roof?
No, you cannot ethically do this. The insurance money is intended to fix the damage. If you do not repair the roof, future damage from the same initial cause may not be covered. The insurance company considers the claim closed once they pay. They expect you to complete the repairs. Keeping the money for other purposes is a form of fraud.
3. What if my claim is denied?
Do not panic. First, ask for a detailed explanation in writing. Review the reason for denial with your roofing contractor. Sometimes, the adjuster missed key evidence. You can request a re-inspection with your contractor present. If that fails, you can appeal to the insurance company's internal review department. Your final option is to file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Insurance.
4. How long does the entire process take?
From filing to completion, a typical claim takes 4 to 8 weeks. The initial adjuster inspection usually happens within a week. The supplement process can add 1-2 weeks. Once approved, material ordering and scheduling take 1-3 weeks. The actual installation takes 1-3 days for an average home. Severe weather events that affect many homes can cause longer delays due to high demand for contractors and materials.
5. Do I need to pay my contractor upfront?
A reputable contractor will not ask for full payment upfront. A standard payment schedule for an insurance job is: a small deposit to secure materials (10-25%), progress payment upon delivery of materials, and final payment upon completion and your satisfaction. Never pay cash. Always use a check or credit card for a paper trail. The payment should align with the draw schedule from your insurance company.
6. What about my landscaping and driveway during the project?
A professional roofing company will take steps to protect your property. They should use tarps and plywood to protect shrubs and flower beds. They will use magnetic tools to clean up nails. They will place a dump trailer in your driveway on wooden blocks to prevent damage. Discuss protection measures with your contractor before work begins. This should be part of their proposal.
7. Will a new roof increase my home insurance premium?
Possibly, but a new roof can also make you eligible for discounts. A new, impact-resistant roof (Class 4 shingles) may qualify for a premium reduction. Contact your insurance agent after the installation is complete. Provide them with a copy of the final invoice and any new warranty. They can re-evaluate your policy. The increase from the claim itself is separate and depends on your insurer's policies.
Practical Tips for Homeowners
Here is a list of actionable advice from my years of experience. Follow these tips to ensure a smooth process.
- Review Your Policy Annually: Know your coverage, deductible, and limits before disaster strikes.
- Maintain Your Roof: Keep gutters clean and trim overhanging tree branches. Good maintenance prevents problems and supports your claim if damage occurs.
- Create a Home Inventory: Photograph or video the inside of your home, including the attic. This documents your possessions and the pre-existing condition of your home.
- Choose a Local Pro: Work with a licensed, insured, and well-reviewed local roofing contractor. Check their standing with the BBB.
- Get Everything in Writing: From the insurance company and the contractor. Do not rely on verbal promises.
- Be Patient but Persistent: The insurance process can be slow. Follow up politely but consistently on your claim status.
- Understand Your Rights: You have the right to hire the contractor of your choice. The insurance company cannot force you to use their "preferred" vendor.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Home and Your Investment
Dealing with roof damage and insurance is stressful. My goal was to reduce that stress by giving you clear, expert information. You now understand the key steps: document damage, file your claim, work with a good contractor, and ensure quality repairs. Remember, the insurance company's first estimate is rarely the final offer. A knowledgeable roofing professional is your best advocate. They fight for the settlement your policy entitles you to receive.
Your roof is your home's first line of defense. A proper repair or replacement restores your safety and peace of mind. Do not settle for less than you deserve. Use this guide as your roadmap. Take your time, ask questions, and choose your partners carefully. If you are in the High Point area and facing roof damage, I hope this information empowers you. You can navigate this process successfully and secure a quality roof over your head for years to come.