Insurance Process

Have Storm Damage? What to Know About the Insurance Process

After a storm with hail and/or wind, many companies will go door to door or solicit by phone informing homeowners of storm damage to their roof and offer services to work with the insurance company and take control of the process. These companies usually have their own public adjusters they use to take control of the process. A public adjuster is supposed to represent the homeowner, assisting them in negotiating with the insurance company during a claim process. A public adjuster is paid a percentage of the claim amount that gets approved. There is no need to hire a public adjuster unless the homeowner feels the claim was unjustly denied.

At Peterson Roofing, we feel that a public adjuster should be hired by the homeowner, if needed, to assist them with their claim.  We believe a public adjuster hired by a contractor is likely to have the best interest of the contractor in mind, not the homeowner.  If you feel a public adjuster is needed, we recommend you hire one yourself, making sure they represent you and your interests, not the contractor’s.

Process and Recommendations for Storm Damage and Insurance Claims

Step 01

Peterson Roofing does not determine storm damage or if an insurance company will cover any repairs or replacements. We can inspect the roof and recommend any necessary repairs, but only the adjuster from the insurance company can determine whether the damage was caused by a storm.

Step 02

Prior to making a claim, check if the storm was severe enough to cause damage. Several shingles missing or hail the size of golf balls are indicators of enough damage to file a claim.

Step 03

If you feel you have storm damage (wind or hail), it is best to call the insurance company to file a claim. The insurance adjuster is the only one that can determine damage and coverage.

Step 04

If your insurance company insists you get an inspection by a roofing contractor, beware of door to door storm chasers. These companies will say there is damage even if there is none, advising you to make a claim. If you need an inspection, be sure to call a local, reputable company. However, as stated before, it does not matter what the contractor says regarding the damage. The insurance adjuster will make their own determination regardless of the contractor’s findings.

Step 05

Once the adjuster inspects the property, they will approve or deny the claim.

Step 06

If the claim is approved, we require a copy of the estimate (scope of work) provided by the insurance company. This allows us to verify that no items were missed on their estimate. Occasionally, an adjuster can miss an item or two that is needed to complete the repairs or replacement.

Step 07

At this point, we will assist you by providing an estimate utilizing the same pricing software as the insurance company along with documentation to submit to your insurance for them to review.

Step 08

We do not take control of the insurance process. The insurance company will not discuss any information with a contractor, including Peterson Roofing, unless the homeowner gives permission.

Step 09

Once approved by the insurance, we will write an estimate/contract for the work to be completed. Most times, our price will match that of the insurance, for the work to be completed by Peterson Roofing. There may be items on your insurance scope that Peterson Roofing will not be doing. Those items and prices will be subtracted from our estimate.

Step 10

Our written estimate will state exactly what will be done along with pricing for each option. Beware of any contracts that don’t have a firm price and state the work will be done “per insurance proceeds”. This type of contract is illegal and non-binding in Illinois. The contract must have a firm contract price.

Step 11

After the contract is signed, the work will be scheduled and completed. The homeowner will need to send a copy of the signed contract and the final invoice to the insurance company informing them the work has been completed.

Step 12

At this point, the insurance company will release final payment to the homeowner. The homeowner will then make payment to Peterson Roofing for the full amount of the invoice.

Just Follow this process and you will be safe. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have.

The Right Solution for ALL Your Roofing Needs

Peterson Roofing is a full service exterior company that has been proudly serving the Chicagoland area and Northwest suburbs since 1978. Whether it is a small repair or a complete replacement project, Peterson Professionals have the experience to meet your exterior needs. We have dedicated and experienced crews that specialize in roofing, soffit, fascia, gutters, preventive maintenance, attic insulation, masonry and more. Our crews are continually trained in-house in our training facility to keep up-to-date with all OSHA regulations and installation procedures.