When To File A Claim And How It
Can Affect Your Insurance Policy
Homeowners insurance is a great thing to have for your Mullica Hill, NJ, home – especially when inclement weather can cause severe damage to your roof. Damage that might necessitate a roof repair… or even a full-on residential roof replacement.
So how do you know when to file a claim, and what will happen to your policy when you do? First, you’ll need to consider some things before filing a claim with your insurance company. For example, if your deductible is high, you may not even save money by relying on your policy.
Let’s explore the ins and outs of filing an insurance claim, including when to do it and the effects it can have in the long run.
Consider How Many Claims You Have Already Filed
For Your Gloucester County Home
Before filing a claim on your roofing damage, it’s essential to consider the cumulative number of claims you have already filed with your homeowners insurance policy. A general rule of thumb is that a homeowner may file one to two claims every ten years.
A word of caution, however. Filing too many claims can result in increased premiums and the eventual dropping of coverage. Remember, the primary goal of an insurance claim is to only file for substantial expenses that can save your wallet some hurt – expenses like a residential roof replacement, for instance.
But even if you have already filed multiple claims in the past decade, a legitimate claim for roof damage is likely still worth it. The higher premiums will not be near the cost of a roof replacement, making the claim worth the increased rates.
Is Your Roof Almost 30 Years Old?
The typical shingle roof lasts around 25 to 30 years. If the roof on your Gloucester County home is approaching this age, you may be under the impression your insurance won’t cover it. However, you might be surprised to learn the opposite is often true.
For an older roof, they’re less likely to pay for roof repairs because of the process repairs require. To replace a shingle, all surrounding shingles must be peeled back. However, older shingles are typically brittle and cannot withstand this movement. Eventually, they’ll break and fail, too.
Insurance companies do not fund roof repairs that lead to more damage. Instead, they’ll be more likely to pay for a roofing replacement. However, they won’t just replace your roof because of its age. It must have sustained some type of damage, such as hail or wind.
Now, if you have a much younger roof, the shingles will be flexible, allowing for repairs. Filing a claim may result in receiving less coverage than the deductible. This leaves you paying out of pocket and having a claim on your record.
Hire Qualified Roofing Professionals
To Inspect The Damage
Once you’ve determined you have damage to your roof, it’s prudent to hire a professional and reliable roofing company in Mullica Hill, NJ, for an inspection. They’ll be experienced in the claim process and know what information you need for the adjuster.
Additionally, they can spot damage that the untrained eye cannot, which could make all the difference between a roof repair or roof replacement. Based on their detailed roofing analysis, you can determine if filing a claim is right for you.
Luckily, a truly quality roofing company is almost always delighted to help with claims. Roofing professionals can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, accurately describing the damage to get the best coverage.
Factors That Can Impact A Roof Insurance Claim
For Your Mullica Hill, NJ, Home
The type of roofing materials you have on your existing roof could affect the claim process. Many insurance policies will cover the replacement of damaged shingles with similar materials. When your specific material has been discontinued, they have no choice but to replace the entire roof.
Another factor to consider is where the damage occurs to your roof. For example, if all the damage occurs on only one slope, your insurance company will likely pay for a roof repair of that slope only.
Considering that information, you’ll have to decide if it’s worth filing a claim based on your deductible. You may be able to cover the cost without having a claim on your record.
For Dependable Residential Roof Replacement Services
In Mullica Hill, NJ, Turn To Ameritech Of New Jersey
When it’s time for a residential roof replacement at your home in Mullica Hill, NJ, turn to a company you can trust. At Ameritech of New Jersey, we have provided quality home improvement services since 1999.
We constantly evaluate the newest technologies and regulations to ensure you get the best service possible. You can rest easy knowing we won’t just complete the job – we’ll do it right. Call Ameritech of New Jersey today at (856) 418–1029 to schedule an estimate.