Roof Claim for Wind Damage
Just a bit of context: my house was built in 2011, so the roof is only 14 years old. Back in April 2021, I discovered several shingles had blown off after a windstorm. I contacted my insurance company, and they advised me to get estimates from a few roofers, which I did. All the roofers I spoke to recommended a full roof replacement due to issues like fish mouthing of the shingles. However, my insurance adjuster insisted on sending out their own roofer, who claimed there was nothing wrong with the roof and only suggested replacing a few shingles. I went ahead and hired him for the repairs.
Now, just this week, we experienced another windstorm, and I’ve found more shingles on the ground. When I contacted my insurance agent, he suggested that I might want to cover the repair costs myself since making a claim could negatively impact my record and might end up costing me more than my $1,000 deductible.
Given that this is a recurring issue and I previously paid for repairs, I’m wondering if there’s a chance I could have the entire roof replaced this time around. Is that a realistic expectation? I’ve never filed an insurance claim before, so I’m unsure what’s typical in these situations.
It sounds like a frustrating situation! Given that you’ve already had wind damage to your roof in the past and have paid for repairs, it’s understandable that you’d be hoping for a better response this time around. However, whether your insurance will cover a full roof replacement can depend on several factors:
Policy Terms: Check your policy for specifics on coverage for wind damage and roof replacements. Each policy has different terms, especially concerning age, wear and tear, and what constitutes a covered loss.
Adjuster’s Assessment: Since the insurance adjuster’s roofer previously said that nothing was wrong and only recommended replacing shingles, that assessment could carry weight when you make your new claim. If the adjuster believes that the damage is not significant enough or related to previous wear and tear, they may deny a full replacement.
Documentation: If possible, gather as much documentation as you can—from photos of past storm damage to reports from roofers who recommended a full replacement. This can support your case for a full roof replacement if you decide to file a claim.
Past Claims: While you’ve never had another claim before, insurance companies often look at your overall claims history. This could work in your favor since you have a good record, but it may still lead them to advise against making a claim for just a few shingles.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Your agent’s suggestion to pay out-of-pocket for repairs may indeed be practical, especially if the cost is close to your deductible and your premium might rise with a claim.
If you decide to file another claim, be prepared for potential pushback from the insurer based on the previous assessment. Ultimately, if the roof is approaching the end of its expected lifespan and you suspect underlying issues, it might be worth consulting with a trusted roofer for a second opinion before making any final decisions. Good luck!