If a storm has recently passed by, you may be concerned about potential storm damage that needs to be addressed....Or if it's even worth filing a claim.

Inspect your roof and property for damage promptly. Insurance policies usually have a time limit for filing claims after an incident occurs.

Furthermore, in the event of hail or other structural damage to your roof, the possibility of a roof leak could lead to concealed interior damage or mold growth.

The best way to find out if your roof has damage that can be claimed is to consult with a knowledgeable roofing and restoration contractor.

Signs of Potential Roof Damage

Do a quick walk around your property and look for the following:

• Fallen debris on or near your roof
• Shredded plants or trees with leaves stripped off
• Dents or damage to gutters and downspouts.
• Cracks, holes, or wear and tear on siding, windowsills, casings
• Torn or damaged window or door screens that are in need of replacement or repair
• Warped or bent HVAC equipment surfaces due to impact
• Fading or peeling paint on decks or fences
• Discoloration on shingles
• Damaged roof tiles
• Indented flat roof surfaces or exhaust vents.

If you see any of the above signs of damage, it could be that you have claimable roof damage. A complete property damage assessment will use photos and written records to document any damages. This will help you decide if you should file a claim.

A qualified contractor knows how to document damage in a format that insurance companies prefer. Getting a professional assessment after filing a claim will give you peace of mind that you've covered everything.

Not all homeowners or property owners insurance policies provide the amount of coverage you need after a disaster.

Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

Your policy probably has a deductible that you must pay before your insurance coverage begins. Different types of wind/hail coverage policies pay varying amounts to fix or replace property damage. The amount you receive for your claim depends on whether your policy includes ACV or RCV coverage after paying the deductible.

Actual Cash Value (ACV): The cost to replace or repair your roof minus any decrease in value due to its age.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV): The total cost of repairing or replacing your roof, without considering its age. As you can imagine, ACV results in more out-of-pocket expense for the property owner.

Going through a natural disaster or some other type of property damage event can be very stressful. Dealing with the aftermath can be overwhelming as you try to maintain your business or home while working with your insurance company to fix your property. Collins Roofing can assist you in restoring your property, making it look as good as new.