Even relatively tame thunderstorms can wreak havoc on your roof, tearing off shingles and throwing tree limbs, hail, and other debris at your home. The standard homeowners insurance policy covers storm damage, but before they issue payment, your insurer will send an adjuster to examine your roof and calculate the cost of repairs. During the inspection, they’ll look for evidence of damage and proof that it was caused by a covered event.

3 Things Insurers Look for After a Storm

1. Interior Damage

Insurance companies generally assume it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to take care of the property, including promptly filing a claim for storm damage. If the insurance company notes your roof has been leaking for awhile, they’ll likely refuse to pay for damage to your drywall, insulation, and personal property.

2. Correct Installation

The standard homeowners insurance policy excludes damage related to faulty workmanship, so the adjuster will look for signs the roof was correctly installed. If they determine the roof was only damaged because of errors on the part of the contractor, the insurer may refuse to pay for any damage at all.

3. The Age of the Roof

If your roof is nearing the end of its useful life, the insurance company may refuse to pay for damages—based on the assumption that, eventually, you would have had to pay for a full replacement on your own. If they do help cover repair or replacement costs, the value of the claim will likely be based on the depreciated value of your roof, not the full replacement cost.

For over 70 years, the professionals at Thompson & Thompson 3rd Generation, Inc. have provided Plattsmouth, NE, homeowners with a wide range of roofing services and industry-leading expertise. If your home has been damaged in a storm, visit their website or Facebook to see how they can help, and call (402) 296-6051 to schedule an inspection today.