Fiction: If I can’t see indentations on my roof, there’s no need to have my roof inspected because clearly there is no damage.
Fact: It is a good idea to work with a reputable professional to evaluate whether your roof has been compromised. Some effects of hail are not immediately evident; a roof can be weakened by hail, but not fail for a year or two. Hail can void your roofing manufacturer’s warranty, another reason it’s important to have your roof evaluated if you suspect hail damage.
Fiction: Foregoing an insurance claim on hail damage means that your rates won’t go up.
Fact: Insurance companies can raise everyone’s rates after a disaster. The only thing that you are by not failing to file a claim is that you’re helping everyone else pay for their damage without getting the assistance you need.
Fiction: I just had a new roof installed; I don’t have to file an insurance claim because the manufacturer has a 50 year warranty.
Fact: Roofing manufacturers will cover against things they can control, such as manufacturing defects, but they cannot warranty against Mother Nature.
Fiction: If visual damage from hail is not evident, the resale value of my home is unaffected.
Fact: Upon placing your home on the market, a potential buyer will likely utilize the services of a home inspector who will carefully evaluate your property. It’s highly likely that they will find evidence of the hail damage and you’ll be forced to either replace the roof or dramatically lower the sale price if you wish to keep the sale intact.
Fiction: The hail was small; it couldn’t have caused any damage.
Fact: Hail of all sizes can cause issues. When in doubt, get an evaluation to ensure that you are covered, if in fact your home has experienced hail damage.
Fiction: I can get a new roof for free if the contractor offers to pay my deductible for free.
Fact: Anyone who offers to do this in the state of Minnesota is breaking the law.
Fiction: I have a year to file a claim after the damage has occurred.
Fact: This varies from company to company. Some are less and others will go over the year mark, especially if a large geographical area was affected.
Fiction: My neighbors were able to get a hail damage claim approved on their property. Mine should be a no-brainer.
Fact: Hail damage is sporadic and each property needs to be evaluated individually. Policies and insurance companies can also vary.
Unsure if the construction company you’re being approached by is reputable or not? Check out our blog addressing storm chasers: http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/07/protect-yourself-from-storm-chasers/.
Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate for your home improvement needs today!
