Damage to the exterior of your home can happen at any moment, and understandably, it can be highly stressful. This is especially the case when you finally see the costs of the materials and labor it will take to get your property back looking like before. However, when you are faced with unexpected Exterior Damage of your home due to natural disasters, weather, or accidents, you may not have to cover the entire bill. Learn more about exterior replacement and repair covered by insurance, how to go through the process, and who to call.
Types of Exterior Damage Covered by Insurance
When it comes to getting your insurance to cover any damage to your home or commercial building’s exterior highly depends on the type of package you have, what you have insured, and what it is insured from. However, general insurance policies typically cover various types of exterior damage, including:
- Hail damage – Hail storms have a high chance of causing dents, cracks, or holes in your roof, siding, or windows.
- Wind damage – High winds can cause shingles to lift, trees to fall on your property, or debris to damage exterior elements.
- Fire damage – Fires can damage a property’s exterior walls, roofing, and windows, leaving it vulnerable to further damage. Your insurance claim and what it will cover may depend on the reason for the fire.
- Vandalism – Acts of destruction such as graffiti, broken windows, or intentional damage to exterior elements from a third party may be covered by insurance.
- Vehicle damage – Accidents involving vehicles can cause damage to a property’s exterior, such as fencing, landscaping, or exterior walls.
It is essential to check your insurance policy and to speak with your insurance representative to determine what types of exterior damage are covered. Also, consider where you live. For example, those living in Chicagoland are at high risk of heavy snowfalls, hail, hefty rainstorms, and flooding.
Steps to Take When Filing an Insurance Claim for Exterior Damage
If your property has suffered severe damage to its exterior, one of the first steps should always be to contact your insurance company to report any damage. They will most likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and then determine if your policy covers it. Always remember to take photos to document the damage and keep any records of repairs or expenses related to the damage, both outside and inside your home.
Once the damage is reviewed and assessed, the insurance company will provide an estimate for any repairs or replacements needed to restore the appearance and function of your home or commercial building. Make sure to carefully review the estimate they give you and ask any questions you may have before agreeing on it. If the estimate does not cover all of the necessary repairs or seems too low, there is a chance you may need to negotiate with your insurance company. The next step would be hiring a public adjuster to advocate on your behalf.
Who Do I Call First for Serious Damage? A Repair and Replacement Company or the Insurance Company?
Undergoing serious damage to your property is a very challenging and stressful time, and you may want to get to work right away to get back to normal. However, the first step should always be to call your insurance company. Doing any work before an adjuster has time to assess the damage and cost of repairs may void your claim and leave you footing the entire bill, setting you back thousands. On the other hand, filing a claim with most home insurance providers is reasonably straightforward. Here are a few basic steps:
1. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you have gone over all of the damage and feel confident that it warrants calling your provider and filing a claim, give your insurance company a call and notify them of the situation. They will assist you in starting the process and sending over an adjuster for your case.
2. Do You Own Documenting
It’s important to note and consider that you may disagree with your insurance company on the actual price of all repairs and replacements. While your insurance adjuster will take their photos and videos, take your own of any damage on your property.
3. Calculate the Cost of All Losses and Repairs
Once the adjuster arrives, they will go through their assessment and then provide an estimate for the following:
- Damages
- Losses
- Necessary repairs/replacements
Based on this estimate they provide you, your insurance company will give a settlement from which you can pay for repairs and replacements to your property.
4. Hire a Contractor for Repairs
Once you have agreed on the amount you will receive for the damages, your insurance company might recommend a contractor. However, you should have the opportunity to hire on your own. You can contact the one they recommend to you. However, it is always a good idea to have a second or even third opinion.
Note that your insurance company may provide you with a check for the necessary work immediately, or it may take a few days to receive it. If you need to get straight to work after making a claim and receiving an estimate, make sure to keep all receipts for products, materials, or labor.
Should You Complete Repairs or Replacements for Exterior Property Damage on your Own?
It may seem like a cheaper and better option to fix claimed house damage on your own. However, it is not recommended. These types of repairs and replacements that warrant contacting an insurance company are often complex and dangerous to do without the proper training and specialty equipment. The potential costs of trying to attempt work without the needed experience outweigh the “savings” of not contacting a contractor.
Contact Apex Exteriors to Work With You and Your Insurance Claim
Apex Exteriors and their expert staff of siding, roofing, window, door, and gutter specialists can help you provide a cost-effective and lasting solution to any damage to your home or commercial exterior. Get in touch with them right away, and they will work directly with you, ensuring you get the best products and service, all while staying within your budget. Schedule an estimate today.
Last Updated on March 20, 2023 by ApexRoofingServices
