A solid new asphalt roof installation is expected to protect a home for up to 20 years, and architectural shingles can last for 40 years or more. But when a severe storm comes along, unexpected damage can occur.
Anytime your home is hit with wicked weather that rips off shingles or leaves visible hail damage, it’s important to schedule a storm damage inspection right away. At J&J Roofing in Michigan, we help homeowners get their lives back on track after a storm as quickly as possible. Follow these steps to file your insurance claim and then give us a call to schedule your storm damage inspection and repairs.
- Know What’s Covered
Long before your home is hit with hail or straight-line winds, it’s your job as a homeowner to understand exactly what’s covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. Most policies will cover lightning strikes, falling trees or branches, hail damage, fire, wind, vandalism, and many other natural disasters. However, many policies will not cover older roofs, damage due to owner negligence, and roofs that have not been maintained to the insurance company’s standards.
- Secure the Property
Before you do anything else, make sure your property is safe and there are no potential hazards like downed power lines or broken branches. Use caution when walking around your property, and if possible, wait until the storm front is completely cleared before trying to assess the damage.
- Get Documentation
Grab your phone and start snapping images of your roof from as many angles as possible without actually getting onto the roof. If there are any fallen branches or power lines, snap pictures of those as well.
- Call Your Agent
Once you’ve assessed the damage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Let them know what caused the damage and that you’ve captured images of the property. Next, inquire about what’s covered by your policy and find out what your responsibilities are as a policyholder filing a claim. If your home needs to be vacated, let your insurance company know as they may pay for your temporary housing costs. Be sure to save all receipts associated with the storm damage.
- Schedule an Inspection
After connecting with your insurance agent, it’s time to schedule a professional storm damage inspection from a residential roofing contractor. Let your residential roofer know that you’re working with an insurance company and you’ll need as much documentation as possible.
Trusted Michigan Storm Damage Inspection Roofers
If you’ve sustained storm damage, J&J Roofing is here to help. We offer online consultations and can help with financing options. Keep our number handy before storms hit. Call our roofers at 586-445-6455 or contact us online to connect with a member of our team.