roofing contractor

Should I Call Insurance or a Roofing Contractor First?

When your roof suffers damage in a storm, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s hail, wind, or water damage, one of the most common questions homeowners face is: Should I call my insurance company or a roofing contractor first? The answer isn’t always straightforward, as there are several factors to consider before making the decision. However, understanding the process and knowing who to contact first can help streamline the situation, reduce stress, and ensure that your roof is properly repaired or replaced.

At Top Builder Roofing, a trusted roofing contractor based in Orlando, Florida, we understand how crucial it is to have the right steps in place when dealing with roof damage and insurance claims. In this blog, we’ll break down the steps involved, explain why it’s important to have professional guidance, and help you navigate this tricky decision.

Assess the Damage to Your Roof

Before you decide whether to call your insurance company or a roofing contractor first, you should make an initial assessment of the damage. If you can safely inspect your roof from the ground, look for obvious signs of damage like missing shingles, dents, or leaks. However, avoid going up on the roof yourself, especially if the damage seems severe. Roofs can be slippery, and trying to inspect it without proper equipment or training can be dangerous.

At this point, it’s usually best to call a professional roofing contractor like Top Builder Roofing to perform a more detailed inspection. Our experienced roofing contractors will assess the full extent of the damage, provide you with an accurate estimate, and guide you through the next steps.

Call Your Insurance Company

Once you have a professional assessment of the roof damage, it’s time to consider your homeowner’s insurance policy. In Florida, many homeowners have coverage for storm-related damage, but it’s important to understand your policy’s specifics. If your roof has been severely damaged, especially by wind, hail, or falling debris, your insurance company may cover part or all of the repair or replacement costs.

That being said, you should always contact your insurance company promptly after the damage occurs. Many insurance policies have a time limit for reporting claims, and failing to notify them within the specified time frame may result in a denied claim. Your insurer will likely send out an adjuster to evaluate the damage and determine whether or not the claim is approved.

Should You Call a Roofing Contractor First?

While calling your insurance company is essential, calling a professional roofing contractor before you file the claim may be in your best interest. Here’s why:

  1. Accurate Damage Assessment
    Professional roofing contractors are trained to spot all types of damage, including those that may not be immediately visible to the untrained eye. Top Builder Roofing will conduct a comprehensive roof inspection, looking for signs of structural damage, leaks, and other potential issues that could affect your roof’s integrity. An accurate assessment from a roofing contractor can help ensure that your insurance claim covers all necessary repairs.
  2. Proper Documentation
    Your roofing contractor can document the damage with detailed photos and reports, which can serve as evidence for your insurance claim. This documentation can make the claims process smoother and help prevent any potential disputes with your insurance company.
  3. Guidance Through the Insurance Process
    Many roofing contractors, including Top Builder Roofing, have experience working with insurance companies. We can guide you through the claims process, assist with paperwork, and even communicate directly with your insurer on your behalf. Having a professional roofing contractor involved from the start can prevent mistakes that could lead to delays or denials.
  4. Emergency Repairs
    If your roof has been severely damaged, temporary emergency repairs might be necessary to prevent further damage to your home. Roofing contractors are equipped to handle these repairs quickly, which can be critical before the insurance adjuster arrives. Often, temporary fixes like tarping the roof or securing loose shingles will help mitigate further damage and protect your property.

Call Your Insurance Company to File a Claim

Once your roofing contractor has assessed the damage, you can move forward with filing your claim. Here are the key steps to follow when contacting your insurance company:

  • Provide the Necessary Documentation: Share the inspection report and photos from the roofing contractor. This will help the insurance adjuster get a clear idea of the roof damage.
  • Review Your Policy: Make sure you understand the specifics of your coverage. Florida homeowners may have different coverage levels, particularly if their homes are older or located in a high-risk area for storms.
  • Schedule the Adjuster Visit: Your insurer will send an adjuster to your property to evaluate the damage and determine how much the policy will cover. Be sure to have your roofing contractor present or available to help answer any questions that may arise during the inspection.

Wait for the Insurance Decision

Once the insurance company has assessed the damage and reviewed the information provided, they will determine if the claim is approved. If approved, they will provide you with a payout to help cover the costs of the repairs or roof replacement.

In some cases, the insurer may not cover all the costs of the repairs, depending on your policy’s deductible, limits, and exclusions. If this happens, you may need to work with the roofing contractor to cover the remaining costs.

Should I Call Insurance or a Roofing Contractor First?

Ultimately, the best approach is to call a roofing contractor first. While contacting your insurance company is essential, having a professional roofing contractor assess the damage first can help ensure you’re making the most accurate claim. At Top Builder Roofing, we can work with you every step of the way, from assessing the damage to navigating the insurance claims process. Our experienced team of roofing contractors will make sure your roof is restored to its best condition and that you get the coverage you deserve.

Why Choose Top Builder Roofing?

At Top Builder Roofing, we’ve been serving homeowners throughout Orlando and Central Florida for years. As a trusted roofing contractor, we are committed to providing high-quality service, expert guidance, and reliable repairs. Whether you need a roof inspection, repairs, or a full roof replacement, our team of roofing contractors has the experience and skills to handle it all.

If your roof has been damaged by a recent storm, don’t hesitate to contact Top Builder Roofing for a free inspection. We’ll help you navigate the process and ensure that your home is protected.

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