How insurers can determine your roof’s fate

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Understanding how insurance evaluations influence repairs, replacements and roof restoration. 

When storm damage strikes, homeowners often wonder what exactly their insurance will cover. In their article, “Repair vs replace: How insurance companies decide what happens to your roof,” The Third Estimate shares insights into how insurance companies assess damage and how homeowners can make informed decisions to avoid costly surprises. 

First, The Third Estimate team explains the importance of a proper inspection for getting accurate documentation of storm damage, reducing disputes and enhancing coverage outcomes. It is important to note that storm damage is not always visible from the ground; things like wind/hail damage, granule loss, cracked shingles, ventilation problems, structural concerns, lifted tabs and installation defects are often only diagnosable by a professional getting up on the roof. 

From there, they shared that even if there are issues on the roof, not every roof requires a full replacement. Depending on your roof material and condition, there are three general options: 

1. Repair: Fix isolated storm damage when the roof is otherwise in good condition. 
2. Replace: Install a new roofing system when damage is widespread, or the roof has reached the end of its lifespan. 
3. Restore: Use specialized restoration systems to extend life and improve performance for aging but structurally sound roofs. 

When it comes to how insurance adjusters decide which of these options will be covered, they are prioritizing cost control and restoring property to its pre-loss condition. Oftentimes, this means that repairs are typically approved when damage is limited, replacement shingles are available, the roof is generally in good condition and functional restoration is possible.  

Overall, if your home is damaged after a storm, your insurance should either perform an on-the-roof evaluation of the damage or look at clear evidence from another professional’s inspection, to determine whether repair, replacement or restoration best addresses the roof’s condition. 

Read the full article from The Third Estimate to learn more.