Insurance Process Guide
The Roof Replacement Insurance Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you suspect that your roof has been damaged by hail—even if it seems minor—call Bold Brothers Roofing Co. immediately for a free, professional storm damage inspection. Remember, it’s your right to have a contractor represent you during the insurance process. We highly recommend not relying solely on the insurance adjuster’s assessment. Our team will carefully inspect your roof and provide a detailed report of any hail damage we find. If no damage is present, we hope our expertise earns your trust for future roofing needs.
At Bold Brothers Roofing Co., we understand that dealing with storm damage can be overwhelming. Navigating the insurance process for a roof replacement shouldn’t add to that stress. That’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way—from the initial inspection to completing the replacement and handling insurance claims. Our streamlined, five-step process makes it easy for homeowners to ensure their roof is fully replaced without unnecessary headaches or expenses.
Here’s a breakdown of the steps:
1. Free Storm Damage Inspection
Our process starts with a thorough, free storm damage inspection. After a severe storm, it’s essential to have your roof assessed for any signs of damage that might not be visible from the ground.
- What We Do: Our team of experienced professionals will check for hail damage, wind damage, missing shingles, leaks, or any structural issues caused by the storm.
- Why It Matters: Catching damage early ensures that your insurance claim covers the full cost of replacement before further problems, like leaks or mold, develop.
Once we’ve completed the inspection, we’ll provide you with all the details of the roof’s condition, along with photos and an estimate for the necessary repairs or replacement, if needed.
2. Making the Insurance Claim
If we determine your roof has storm damage, the next step is to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance company. We assist in this process to ensure everything is submitted correctly.
- What We Do: We’ll guide you on how to contact your insurance provider, explain the details of your claim, and provide any necessary documentation.
- Why It Matters: Filing an insurance claim can feel daunting, but with our expertise, we ensure that all relevant information about the damage is clearly communicated, so your policy covers everything it should, allowing you to restore your home to its pre-storm condition.
Once your claim is filed, your insurance company will schedule an inspection with their adjuster.
3. Insurance Adjuster Inspection
After your claim is made, your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage and confirm that your roof needs to be replaced.
- What We Do: We will meet with your insurance adjuster on-site to ensure they accurately assess the full extent of the storm damage.
- Why It Matters: Having us there ensures nothing is missed during the adjuster’s inspection. We know what to look for, and we’ll advocate for you to ensure the insurance company covers everything necessary for a complete replacement.
Once the adjuster’s inspection is complete, your insurance company will provide you with a claim settlement, including both actual cash value (ACV) and recoverable depreciation.
4. Scheduling the Roof Replacement
With your insurance approval and funds in hand, the next step is scheduling your roof replacement.
- What We Do: We work with you to choose a convenient date to replace your roof. Our skilled roofing team will complete the job efficiently and with the highest quality materials.
- Why It Matters: A timely roof replacement prevents further damage to your home and ensures you have a sturdy, reliable roof for the years to come.
Throughout the project, we keep you informed of progress and ensure minimal disruption to your daily life.
5. Paying Your Deductible
The only out-of-pocket expense you’ll have is your insurance deductible.
- What We Do: We ensure the process is transparent. The insurance company pays the remaining cost of the roof through a combination of the initial payment (ACV) and the recoverable depreciation after the work is
completed. - Why It Matters: You won’t have to worry about unexpected costs beyond your deductible. Once the work is done and you submit the proof to your insurance company, they’ll release the remaining balance to cover the total cost of your roof replacement.
At Bold Brothers Roofing Co., we work with your insurance company from start to finish to make sure your roof replacement is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Why Choose Bold Brothers Roofing Co.?
- Experienced Professionals: We have over a decade of experience working with homeowners and insurance companies on storm damage claims.
- Transparent Process: We guide you through each step, ensuring there are no surprises, and advocate for you to get the full value of your insurance claim.
- Top-Quality Materials: We only use the highest-quality roofing materials to ensure your roof stands strong for years to come.
- Dedication to Service: We prioritize customer satisfaction and make sure your home is protected with a reliable, high-quality roof replacement.
Get Started Today!
If your home has been affected by a recent storm, don’t wait! Contact Bold Brothers Roofing Co. today for a free storm damage inspection and let us take the stress out of the insurance process. We’re here to help you get back to normal as quickly as possible!
INSURANCE COMPANIES CLAIM PHONE NUMBERS
Allied
800-282-1446
Allstate
800-54-STORM
American Family
800-374-1111
Amica
800-24-AMICA
Auto Owners
517-323-1200
Chubb
800-CLAIMS-0
Encompass
800-588-7400
Farmers
800-435-7764
GEICO
1-866-324-6516
Hartford
1-800-243-5860
Liberty Mutual
800-2CLAIMS
Nationwide
800-421-3535
Progressive
800-776-4737
Safeco
800-332-3226
Shelter
800-SHELTER
State Farm
800-SF-CLAIM
Travelers
800-CLAIM33
USAA
800-531-8222
Additional Information
Beware of Roofing Companies Advertising “No Deductible” Offers
Due to the volume of storm damage claims, some roofing companies may promise to waive or pay your deductible. However, this practice is illegal in Colorado.
Colorado Senate Bill 12-038, Section 1, Article 22
clearly states:
“Roofing contractors cannot pay, waive, or rebate all or part of an insurance deductible applicable to a roofing claim.” In other words, you cannot profit from your insurance claim. All loss statements come with a disclaimer informing
homeowners about insurance fraud, and paying or waiving a deductible falls under this category.
If you’re unable to pay your deductible immediately, Bold Brothers Roofing Co. offers in-house payment plans to assist our clients. Please feel free to discuss this option with your Project Manager for more details.
https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/2012a_sl_267.pdf
Understand the Importance of Complying with Colorado Law
Colorado law prohibits profiting from an insurance claim, and committing insurance fraud is a Class 3 felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison, with significant fines. Make sure you work with a trusted, reputable roofing contractor who adheres to state regulations and keeps your interests at heart.
At Bold Brothers Roofing Co., we’re committed to honesty, transparency, and providing you with the highest quality service for your roof replacement needs.
Avoid Choosing the Lowest Bid—Your Only Out-of-Pocket Expense Is the Deductible.
Your insurance company covers everything beyond your deductible and any optional upgrades you choose. Opting for a cheaper bid won’t reduce your deductible. The best way to maximize your return on investment is by hiring a reliable contractor who uses high-quality materials and does the job right the first time. Choosing the lowest bid can often lead to more time and money spent on future repairs. Your roof is a long-term investment—ensure you get the best quality roof that adds value to your home.
What is “Recoverable Depreciation”, “ACV” & “RCV”?
Definition of Recoverable Depreciation:
Recoverable depreciation is the difference between the replacement cost of an item and its actual cash value (ACV), which accounts for wear and tear or depreciation over time. In certain insurance policies, this depreciation is recoverable once the item is repaired or replaced and proof is provided to the insurance company.
Example: Roof Replacement with Recoverable Depreciation
A homeowner has an older roof that is damaged in a hailstorm. The insurance company inspects the roof and determines it needs to be replaced. Their policy covers the replacement cost but includes recoverable depreciation.
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV): $15,000 (the cost to replace the roof with a new one)
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): $9,000 (because the roof was 15 years old, the insurance company depreciates it based on its age and condition)
- Recoverable Depreciation: $6,000 (the amount the insurance company withholds until the work is completed)
Initially, the insurance company pays $9,000 (ACV) to get the roof replacement started. Once the homeowner hires a contractor and the roof is replaced, the homeowner submits proof (such as invoices and photos). The insurance company then releases the additional $6,000 (recoverable depreciation) to cover the full $15,000 replacement cost.
Without the recoverable depreciation, the homeowner would have to pay the difference out of pocket, but since the policy includes this, the insurance company covers the full replacement cost, as long as the roof is replaced.
Will Filing a Roof Replacement Claim Increase My Insurance Rates?
If your roof was damaged by a storm, the short answer is no.
Filing a claim for storm damage won’t cause your homeowner’s insurance rates to increase because this type of event is considered uncontrollable and natural.
Increased rates in your area are determined by zip codes that experience statistically higher levels of storm damage, meaning your rates could go up whether you file a claim or not.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Do you know what your insurance should cover for your roof damage?
- Are you confident the insurance adjuster offered “Fair Market Value” for your area?
- Are you aware of local building codes related to roof replacement?
- Did the insurance adjuster account for all costs needed to bring your home up to current codes?
- Are you certain the adjuster didn’t miss any damage or required repairs?
The Insurance Adjuster Meeting and Inspection
When you file a claim, your insurance company will schedule an appointment with an adjuster, typically between 8 AM and 6 PM, Monday through Saturday. During this appointment, the adjuster will inspect your property, including the roof and other areas affected by the storm. They will measure out a “test square” (10 feet by 10 feet) on various slopes of your roof. If they find enough evidence of damage (such as bruises or broken shingles) within those squares, the insurance company will approve a roof replacement. The adjuster will also inspect additional roofing components, and extra funds may be provided if those areas are also damaged.
What Determines the Payment Amount for My Roof?
Your insurance company follows a detailed price list to ensure that the amount paid for your roof replacement reflects fair market value. They will only cover the actual costs for repairs that align with their established pricing—regardless of any bids you receive. If any items are missing from the Loss Statement, we will work directly with your insurance company to secure proper supplementation and update the costs accordingly.
Now, ask yourself: What benefit does the insurance company offer you for finding the lowest price for them? Will your premiums decrease if you choose a cheaper bid? The answer to both is no. Your insurance company will pay the contractor the fair market price, so searching for the lowest bid only saves the insurance company money while potentially sacrificing the quality your home deserves.
Who Should You Hire to Replace Your Roof?
This is one of the most important decisions you will make during the process. Our best advice is to choose a contractor you feel comfortable with, has a strong reputation, and can be trusted. You should never feel rushed or pressured into making a decision. Look for a contractor who does not require upfront payments, is properly licensed, and fully insured.
Be cautious of out-of-state contractors who may flood the area after major hailstorms but lack local knowledge and experience with building codes. Choosing the right contractor ensures high-quality materials are used, and your home remains protected from the elements.
Hiring Bold Brothers Roofing Co. guarantees expert service for you and your insurance company. With our extensive experience and deep understanding of the roofing process, we work on your behalf to deliver the best results for your home.
