Navigating Roof Repairs After an Insurance Claim: Seeking the Right Solution
If you’ve ever faced issues with a roof replacement that was covered by insurance, you know how frustrating it can be when things don’t go as planned. Recently, a homeowner reached out for advice regarding their situation after a less-than-satisfactory experience with a roof replacement.
About a year ago, they successfully filed an insurance claim for a new roof due to wind damage. They opted to work with a well-regarded local roofing company. Unfortunately, after the installation, they began to notice that shingles were coming loose and falling off. Initially, the roofing company addressed these concerns by replacing the missing shingles, but the problem persisted.
Seeking clarity, the homeowner consulted a different roofing company for a second opinion. The new team pointed out that the installed shingles were unsuitable for the home’s mansard style, and that they had been applied using incorrect methods. While they confirmed that the shingles on the flat part of the roof were acceptable, they recommended a complete replacement of the shingles on the steep sides of the mansard roof to prevent further issues. The estimate for this necessary work was approximately $20,000, pending a more accurate quote if they chose to proceed.
Facing this daunting situation, the homeowner is understandably unsure of the best course of action. They believe the original roofing contractor should be held accountable for their use of inappropriate materials and improper installation techniques. However, trust in the original company has waned.
Here are some steps the homeowner is considering, along with advice for anyone in a similar predicament:
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Document Everything: Before taking any significant steps, it’s crucial to gather all relevant documents, including the original contract, any communication with the roofing companies, and photographs of the current roof condition. This documentation will be invaluable moving forward.
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Reach Out to Your Insurance Provider: It’s wise to inform your insurance company about the ongoing issues with the roof. They might be able to provide guidance or assistance in communicating with the roofing contractor, or they may consider additional claims if the roof was not installed according to the agreed specifications.
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Consulting a Lawyer: If there’s evidence that the roofing company did not fulfill their contractual obligations or if there seem to be legal implications regarding the installation, consulting with a lawyer may be beneficial. They can help determine if there are grounds for a breach of contract claim.
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Get Another Professional Opinion: If you haven’t done so already, seeking a third opinion could
