When your roof suffers damage—whether from hail, high winds, fallen tree branches, or simply old age—you might find yourself asking, “Do I contact my insurance company first or a roofing company?” It’s a common question, and the answer can significantly affect how smoothly and quickly your roof gets repaired.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make an informed decision. We’ll walk you through what to do first, how the claims process works, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or major storm damage, this article will help you navigate the next steps with confidence.
Understanding the Situation
Before picking up the phone, take a moment to assess your situation:
- What caused the damage? Was it weather-related, or due to wear and tear?
- Is it an emergency? Is water actively leaking into your home?
- Do you feel safe? Some roof issues can pose risks if not addressed quickly.
If there’s an immediate danger (e.g., major leaks or structural instability), calling a roofing company Buda Texas for emergency repair may be the first step. Otherwise, you’ll want to take a more measured approach.
Step-by-Step: What to Do After Roof Damage
1. Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of the affected areas. Include both close-up shots and wide-angle views. This documentation will be essential whether you file an insurance claim or not. Make notes of when the damage occurred and if there were any accompanying weather events. This detailed record strengthens your case when filing a claim.
2. Prevent Further Damage
If safe to do so, cover holes with a tarp or place buckets under leaks. Your insurance company may require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Failing to do so might result in claim denial or reduced compensation.
Temporary measures like tarping or boarding up vulnerable areas can also protect interior walls, insulation, and your home’s electrical systems from moisture-related issues.
3. Contact a Reputable Roofing Company for an Inspection
Here’s where many homeowners hesitate. Shouldn’t I call my insurance company first? Not necessarily.
Calling a roofing company first has several advantages:
- They can assess whether the damage is likely to be covered by insurance.
- They’ll provide a professional inspection report you can include in your claim.
- They’ll identify issues that might be missed by an insurance adjuster.
Make sure to choose a trusted, local contractor with experience in storm damage claims. In Buda, Texas, for example, working with a reliable roofing company ensures the job gets done right.
If you’re also noticing issues with your gutters, be sure to look into gutter repair services near me.
Reputable roofing contractors may also help prioritize repairs, advising which parts of the roof need immediate attention and which areas can wait—maximizing both your time and budget.
4. Get an Estimate
Ask the roofer for a written estimate. This helps you understand potential costs and ensures you’re not blindsided by unexpected expenses. It also gives you leverage when working with your insurance adjuster.
The estimate should break down costs by materials, labor, and other factors like waste disposal or permits. Ask the contractor to clarify any technical terms, especially if you’re comparing estimates from multiple companies.
5. File a Claim with Your Insurance Company
Now that you have an inspection report and estimate, contact your insurance provider. Provide them with:
- Photos and videos
- The roofer’s inspection report
- The cost estimate
Most companies allow you to file a claim online or via phone. Be ready to answer detailed questions about the date and nature of the damage.
Keep a written log of all interactions with the insurance company, including dates, times, names of representatives, and summaries of conversations. This can be useful if disputes arise later.
6. Schedule a Visit with the Insurance Adjuster
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the roof. If possible, ask the roofer to be present during the inspection. This ensures both parties are on the same page and helps avoid disputes.
Having a professional roofer present during the adjuster’s visit ensures that technical aspects of the damage are properly explained. This often results in a more accurate and fair settlement.
7. Review the Settlement Offer
After the adjuster’s inspection, your insurer will issue a settlement offer. Review this carefully with your roofer. Sometimes the insurer might overlook certain repairs that your roofer deems necessary.
Don’t hesitate to negotiate. If you feel the offer is too low or doesn’t reflect the scope of damage, you can ask your roofer to provide additional documentation to support a revised claim. Many homeowners aren’t aware that insurance payouts aren’t always final.
8. Approve the Repairs and Start the Work
Once you’re satisfied with the claim and payout, authorize your roofing contractor to begin repairs. Be sure to keep records of all invoices and communications.
Depending on the insurance policy, you might receive funds in two parts: an initial payment and a final one after work completion. Clarify this with your insurer and contractor to avoid payment delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the inspection: You might miss damage that should be covered.
- Going straight to insurance without support: Insurance companies may minimize the payout if there’s no third-party documentation.
- Hiring storm chasers: Always choose local, licensed professionals.
- Not reading your policy: Understand what’s covered and what’s not. Some policies exclude wear and tear or only cover specific types of storm damage.
- Delaying repairs: Waiting too long may cause further deterioration and complicate the claim process.
Why Choose Cadence Home Solutions?
At Cadence Home Solutions, based in Manchaca, Texas, we specialize in helping homeowners navigate roofing damage and insurance claims. Our trained professionals will:
- Conduct a free, thorough roof inspection
- Provide documentation to strengthen your claim
- Meet with your insurance adjuster to ensure accuracy
- Deliver high-quality repairs backed by warranty
We understand the stress that comes with roof damage. That’s why we take a hands-on, supportive approach throughout the entire process. From the first inspection to the final shingle placement, our goal is to protect your home and your peace of mind.
We take pride in treating every home like our own. With decades of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Cadence Home Solutions is your go-to partner for peace of mind.
Contact us today at (512) 818-7882 to schedule your roof inspection.
Final Thoughts
So, should you contact your insurance first or a roofing company? In most cases, your best bet is to call a trusted roofing contractor first. They’ll help assess the damage, guide you through the insurance maze, and ensure your home gets the repairs it needs.
Roof damage is stressful—but the process doesn’t have to be. With a solid plan and a reliable team on your side, you can get through it smoothly and confidently.
Taking immediate action, choosing a qualified local contractor, and understanding your rights in the insurance process are crucial steps toward recovery.
Remember, when in doubt, call Cadence Home Solutions at (512) 818-7882. We’re here to help, every step of the way.
Let us handle the hassle—so you can get back to enjoying the comfort and safety of your home.
