In a previous article, here, we explained the C.L.U.E. system, how to get a free report, and why it is important for any homeowner to know about the C.L.U.E. system before filing an insurance claim for a roof replacement.
In this article we are going to expand on the different information that is important to understand before filing an insurance claim for a roof replacement.
What is your deductible and why should you know what it is?
In most insurance policies the deductible is the amount of money you’ll pay out of pocket before your insurance company will pay anything on the claim. This is the amount that you will pay no matter how much the claim is.
Example: If your roof replacement claim is $15,000 and your deductible is $3,000. Once the work is done the insurance company will pay you a total of $12,000 for you to pay your contractor. You will pay your contractor $3,000 out of your pocket.
You need to know your deductible amount so you can decide on if it is worth filing a claim or not. In the example above it would make sense to file a claim as there is enough damage.
Example: If roof repair claim is only going to be around $2,500 but your deductible is $3,000 then it would not be worth filing a claim because the insurance company would not pay anything because it does not meet your deductible.
Does your home have enough damage to get coverage?
This is a more difficult question to answer. It is important to contact an honest local roofer who can do a free storm inspection to check your home for storm damage. We would suggest getting photos from the roofer. Be aware that even if a roofer tells you there is enough damage it is still ultimately the insurance companies’ decision.
What claims are showing up on your C.L.U.E. report?
Every claim you file goes into the C.L.U.E. database. The insurance companies use this information to decide if they are going to give you coverage and what your insurance rates will be. Before filing a claim we suggest that you request a copy of your C.L.U.E. report so you can make sure that you do not have too many claims too close together.
If you are interested in getting your C.L.U.E. report fill out the form below and we will send you the information on how to get your annual report.
If you have any questions about filing a claim for a roof replacement, we suggest getting a Free Storm Inspection from a qualified roofing contractor before you file a claim. If you are in the St. Louis Metro area, call us at 314-344-3434 and we would be happy to help.
