Seeing their home damaged after a storm is always devastating for homeowners; the extent of the damage varies, with the roof and siding usually the first to bear the brunt of the storm’s impact. Many, however, take solace in the fact they have storm insurance.
However, homeowners need to ensure they follow the proper procedures for filing insurance claims to ensure the extent of the coverage won’t be denied.
Document Storm Damage
If you have home insurance, the first thing you need to do after an extreme weather event is to document the damage. At this point, it isn’t advisable to conduct repairs as these could lower your coverage. Instead, take pictures of the damaged parts of your home, which, in most cases, include your roof and siding.
And, if your siding is damaged, you don’t necessarily have to install new siding on your home; you can simply replace the damaged parts. However, you might need to install new siding if the manufacturer has discontinued that product. Check with your local contractor to find out.
Check Your Coverage
In case you need to install new siding for your home, never assume that your insurer will cover all of the replacement costs. Check your insurance policy.
Get an Estimate From a Reputable Contractor
Call a reputable contractor to get an estimate on the repairs that need to be done. Contractors and insurance companies use the same software to calculate estimates, so there shouldn’t be any difference between the estimates you’ll receive from either of them. This doesn’t mean you don’t have to coordinate with your insurance agent, however.
In fact, your insurance agent is the one you should be calling first, not the insurance company. That’s because you might end up filing too many claims, and this could see you being dropped by your insurer. Before filing any claims, ask your agent if it’s okay to do so.
Dynasty Restoration Inc. is a storm damage company with two decades’ worth of experience. To get a free estimate, call us at (402) 205-2877, or fill out this form.
