What Landlords Need to Know About Roof Insurance Claims

Being a landlord means you are a real estate investor. Like every savvy investor, you want to protect and maintain your investment in top shape to earn more returns.

The roof is one of the most vital parts of your rental property. It protects the structure, systems, and other components of the property. Renters and their properties also benefit from the protection your roof offers.

The roof endures constant exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as sun, snow, rain, and wind. For that reason, it can sustain damages following exposure to extreme weather conditions. How do you protect your investment from experiencing such terrible damages or loss? That is where the landlord's insurance come to play.

Some landlords have insurance but do not know how to follow through with the claims process when their roof sustains damages—making a roof insurance claim can seem like a difficult task. However, it can be relatively straightforward when you have the right information and preparation.

Here, we will break down the steps you need to take to make a successful roof insurance claim and get your property back to its best in no time. Let's dive in.

Understand your insurance policy

The famous saying "knowledge is power" is very relatable when it concerns insurance. That is because you can make a smoother and more successful roof insurance claim when you know precisely what your policy covers and what it doesn't. We always recommend that landlords read their policies thoroughly.

That is the first aspect everyone should not skip. It may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised at the number of people who neglect this step. Most insurance policies will cover damages resulting from fire, falling objects, and storms. However, it is essential to double-check that your roof enjoys such protection.

Always contact your insurance provider if you need clarification on what the policy covers or have questions. They will answer your questions and provide the necessary information to help you make informed decisions. If you feel overwhelmed, you can involve a professional insurance agent.

They will help you to understand and maximize the coverage. Understanding your insurance policy will make the claims process more accessible and help avoid unpleasant surprises.

Document the damage

Once you discover damages to your roof, it is essential to start documentation. To do this, you will need to take pictures or videos and make a written record of the damage. Your documentation should include the date such discovery took place and estimates you have received for repairs.

To keep your roof in top shape, we recommend you hire the services of professionals to perform regular roof inspections on your rental property. Most people get to notice roof damage during such an inspection. You can also schedule a roof inspection after a heavy storm, wind, or downpour. Doing so helps you to detect and document the damages early. Having a record of issues helps to make a stronger case when filing your insurance claim. It is essential to keep receipts and records of temporary repairs you make to prevent further damage.

File the claim

The next step after documentation is to file the claim with your insurance provider. Depending on your insurance company, the process may vary. But generally, you will provide your policy information, date of damage, and documentation. Always file claims immediately after you notice them to avoid delays in processing them. In addition, waiting for too long may lead to denial or challenges in getting the repairs promptly.

Work with an insurance adjuster

After filing your claim, your insurance company will send an adjuster to your rental property to assess the roof damage. The adjuster must determine the extent of damage and the cost of repairs.

We recommend that you work closely with the adjuster so they can have a clear understanding of the damage and repair costs. Let them see your documentation of the damages and estimates of repairs (if you have received any). Where the adjuster's estimate of repairs seems lower than yours, you can negotiate with them to conduct the repairs up to specifications.

Perform the repairs

When the insurance adjuster concludes the assessment and agrees on the cost of repairs, you will need to conduct the repairs as soon as possible. Choosing reputable professionals for the job is advisable because a well-repaired roof protects your property and prevents future issues. Some insurance providers may need the documentation of repairs before they release payments.

Roof insurance claims can be a daunting problem if you do not understand how to proceed. However, you can ensure everything goes smoothly with the proper preparation and steps. Hiring competent professionals for the jobs is advisable to avoid issues after the repairs.

Credit: Limestone Country Properties