Key Takeaways:
- Filing a home damage restoration claim can be an intimidating process. Still, it is crucial to understand your coverage and arm yourself with the right resources to get the most out of it.
- Document everything thoroughly and take plenty of photos of the damages for evidence during the claims process.
- Be prepared for an initial settlement offer that may not match what you expect, but remember that this is just an opening bid, so negotiate with your insurer to get a better deal.
- If all else fails, consider hiring a public adjuster to help secure a more fair settlement for your damages.
- Curvelo Restorations offers roofing and damage restoration services to customers in Cumming, GA, and the surrounding areas.
Water damage, fire damage, and other types of home disasters can be a huge hassle to deal with. Not only is your home likely damaged, but you also have to worry about the insurance claim process. Filing a home damage restoration claim the right way can be tricky. You want to avoid making any mistakes that could jeopardize your claim or cause further delays. Curvelo Restorations will discuss the best way to file a home damage restoration claim.
Common Mistakes in Filing Home Damage Restoration Claim
1. Not Filing a Claim within the Time Limit
The most common mistake people make when registering a home damage restoration claim is not filing within the time limit set by their insurance company. Most insurance companies require that claims be filed within a specific timeframe, typically 30 days, to be considered valid. If you complete this deadline, your claim will likely be paid.
2. Not Getting Multiple Estimates
Another mistake people need to correct when filing a home damage restoration claim is not getting multiple estimates. Your insurance company will only reimburse you up to a certain amount, so getting estimates from various restoration and roofing contractors is essential to ensure you don’t have to pay out of pocket.
3. Not Documenting the Damage
Another common mistake people make when filing a home damage restoration claim is not adequately documenting the damage. It’s essential to take photos or videos of the damage and keep any receipts for repairs that have already been made. This documentation will be crucial in getting your claim approved.
Related: Learn about how to document flood damage insurance claims.
4. Not Keeping Track of Expenses
Another mistake people make when filing a home damage restoration claim is not keeping track of their expenses. When dealing with repairs and replacements, it’s easy to lose track of how much money you’re spending. However, it’s essential to record all expenses related to the damage to get reimbursed by your insurance company.
5. Not Knowing Your Policy Limits
The most significant blunder people make when filing a home damage restoration claim is not knowing their policy limits. Every insurance policy has limits on how much coverage is available for certain types of damages. Understanding your policy limits is essential to avoid being under or over-insured.
Also, read our blog on what your insurance pays for roof repairs.
6. Not Itemizing the Damages
When you are documenting the damage, be sure to itemize all of the damaged items. It will help to ensure that you are reimbursed for all of the damages that have occurred. Additionally, it will help to speed up the claims process as your insurance company will not have to guess what was destroyed and what needs to be replaced.
7. Not Informing Your Mortgage Company
If you have a mortgage on your home, inform your mortgage company of the damages as soon as possible. They may have requirements or restrictions on how the repairs are made or who can do them. Inform them to avoid delays in getting the repairs done or even having your claim denied altogether.
8. Failing to Get Permits
If your home damage requires repairs that need permits, another mistake you could make is failing to get the proper approvals before starting work. According to your location, you may need permission for electrical, plumbing, or even roofing work. If you fail to get the proper permits, your insurance company may deny your claim.
9. Not Understanding Your Deductible
Your deductible is the out-of-pocket amount payable in addition to the insurance payment. It is essential to know your deductible before filing a claim, as you may be responsible for paying for some or all of the repairs if the cost exceeds your deductible.
10. Failing to Mitigate Further Damage
Once the damage has occurred, it is crucial to take steps to prevent further damage from occurring. It may involve boarding up windows or placing tarps over damaged roofs. If you fail to take these steps and other damage happens, your insurance company may deny your claim or only cover a portion of the damages.
11. Making Permanent Repairs before Your Claim is Approved
Another mistake people often need to correct when dealing with home damage is making permanent repairs before their insurance claim is approved. While it may be tempting to start making repairs immediately, it’s essential to wait until your claim has been approved before doing anything permanent. Otherwise, your insurance company may not reimburse you for those repairs.
12. Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor
If you need to hire a home damage restoration company for repairs, another mistake you could make is hiring an unlicensed one. Always hire a contractor who is licensed and insured. Otherwise, you could be liable if they cause further damage while working on your property.
Tips for a Successful Home Damage Restoration Claim Filing
1. Get an Estimate
If your home has been damaged, the first thing is to get an estimate of the cost of repairs. It will provide a clear picture of the work that needs to be done and help you determine if filing a claim is worth your time and effort. Get estimates from multiple restorations or roofing contractors for a fair price.
2. Gather Documentation
Collect all necessary documentation, including photos of the damage and any other relevant paperwork. Having all this information readily available will make the claims process much smoother and increase your chances of success.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
The next step is to notify your insurance company of the damage. They will likely send an adjuster to inspect the property and determine the extent of the damage. Be honest with the adjuster and provide them with all the relevant information and documentation.
4. Negotiate a Settlement
Once the insurance adjuster has inspected the property, they will provide you with a settlement offer. This offer may be less than what you expected, but it is essential to remember that it is just an initial offer. Negotiating with the insurance company to get the best possible settlement for your damages is critical.
5. Hire a Public Adjuster
If you are not satisfied with the settlement offer from your insurance company, consider hiring a public adjuster. A public adjuster is a professional who works on behalf of policyholders to help them get fair settlements for their damages. They will review your case and work with your insurance company to negotiate a higher settlement amount.
Need Restoration Services in Cumming, GA?
No one wants to have Storm Damage, but it happens. Curvelo Restorations is here to get back to normal quickly. We specialize in commercial and residential roof installation, replacement, inspection, and storm damage repair. We are fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind. Contact us today for a free estimate on returning your home or business in Cumming, GA, back to its pre-storm glory.
