Handling Insurance Claims for Storm Damage in Ohio: Expert Tips and Assistance

Ohio residents are no strangers to severe weather. From powerful windstorms to damaging hail, these events can wreak havoc on your home, especially your roof. When storm damage occurs, navigating the insurance claim process can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the steps of handling insurance claims for storm damage in Ohio, provide expert tips, and highlight how Always Be Fair Roofing can assist you.

Common Types of Storm Damage in Ohio

Before diving into the claims process, it’s important to understand the types of storm damage common in Ohio:

• Wind damage: High winds can lift or remove shingles, exposing your roof to water infiltration.
• Hail damage: Hailstones can crack or dent shingles, reducing their effectiveness.
• Water damage: Heavy rains can lead to leaks, especially if wind has already compromised your roof.
• Lightning strikes: While rare, lightning can cause fires or electrical system damage.
• Fallen trees and debris: Strong storms can topple trees onto your roof, causing significant damage.

Immediate Steps After Storm Damage

If your home has been hit by a storm, it’s crucial to act quickly and methodically. Follow these expanded steps to ensure your safety and protect your property:

1. Ensure safety:
   • Stay out of damaged areas until they’ve been declared safe by professionals.
   • Be aware of potential hazards like downed power lines, weakened structures, or gas leaks.
   • If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave immediately and contact your gas company.
   • Use flashlights instead of candles or oil lamps to avoid fire risks.
2. Document the damage:
   • Take extensive photos and videos of all visible damage, both inside and outside the home.
   • Include close-ups of damaged items as well as wide shots to show the overall impact.
   • Make a detailed inventory list of damaged belongings, including estimated values and purchase dates, if possible.
   • Keep all receipts for emergency repairs or temporary accommodations.
3. Make temporary repairs:
   • Cover broken windows or damaged roof areas with tarps or plywood to prevent further damage.
   • Remove standing water to prevent mold growth and additional water damage.
   • Board up doors and windows if necessary for security.
   • Be cautious when climbing ladders or walking on the roof – consider hiring professionals for dangerous tasks.
4. Contact your insurance company:
   • Report the damage as soon as possible to start the claim process.
   • Ask about the claim filing deadline and any specific documentation requirements.
   • Keep a log of all communications with your insurance company, including dates, times, and names of representatives.
5. Meet with an insurance-qualified contractor like Always Be Fair Roofing:
   • Never meet with an adjuster alone.
   • Always have a qualified contractor like Always Be Fair Roofing present to help you navigate the inspection process.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

Before filing a claim, it’s crucial to review and understand your homeowner’s insurance policy. Here are key points to focus on:

• Coverage types:
  • Replacement cost coverage: Pays to replace damaged items with new ones of similar quality.
  • Actual cash value coverage: Pays the depreciated value of damaged items.
  • Extended replacement cost: Offers additional coverage above your policy limit, often a percentage.
• Deductibles:
  • This is the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in.
  • Some policies have separate, often higher, deductibles for specific perils like wind or hail damage.
  • Consider how your deductible might affect smaller claims.
• Exclusions and limitations:
  • Some types of damage may not be covered, such as flood damage (which typically requires separate insurance).
  • There may be caps on coverage for certain items like jewelry or electronics.
  • Understand any named perils in your policy versus open perils coverage.
• Additional living expenses (ALE):
  • If your home is uninhabitable, your policy may cover temporary housing costs.
  • This can include hotel bills, restaurant meals, and other expenses above your normal living costs.
  • There’s usually a time or monetary limit on ALE coverage.

The Insurance Claim Process in Ohio

1. File the initial claim:
   • Contact your insurance company promptly to report the damage.
   • Provide a general description of the damage and any emergency repairs made.
   • Ask about the next steps and expected timeline for the claims process.
2. Meet with the insurance adjuster:
   • They’ll inspect the damage and determine the claim amount.
   • Be present during the inspection and point out all areas of concern.
   • Choose a contractor to work with like Always Be Fair Roofing and work through things together.
3. Negotiate the settlement:
   • If you disagree with the adjuster’s assessment, you can negotiate.
   • Provide your contractor estimates and any other documentation supporting your claim.
   • Consider hiring a public adjuster if you’re struggling to reach a fair settlement.

Common Challenges in Storm Damage Claims

Be prepared for potential hurdles in the claims process:

• Determining damage cause:
  • Insurance companies may dispute whether the damage was storm-related or due to pre-existing conditions or wear and tear.
  • Detailed documentation and expert opinions can help support your case. Having regular inspections of your home by Always Be Fair Roofing can help establish whether conditions pre-exist.
• Disagreements on damage extent:
  • Your assessment may differ from the adjuster’s.
  • Hidden damage might be discovered during repairs, requiring additional claims.
  • Keep communication open with your insurance company about any new findings.
• Claim denials:
  • Sometimes, claims are denied outright and require appeal.
  • Understand the reason for denial and gather evidence to support your appeal.
  • Consider seeking legal advice if you believe your claim was unfairly denied.

Experienced contractors like Always Be Fair Roofing play a key role in the claims process:

• Damage assessment: We can provide a thorough evaluation of your roof’s condition.
• Accurate estimates: Our detailed estimates help ensure fair compensation.
• Technical expertise: We can explain complex roofing issues to insurance adjusters.
• Quality repairs: Once your claim is approved, we ensure top-notch restoration of your roof.

How Always Be Fair Roofing Can Help

At Always Be Fair Roofing, we’re committed to helping Ohio homeowners through the storm damage repair process:

• We provide thorough, honest assessments of storm damage.
• Our team can help you understand and navigate the insurance claim process.
• We use high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship for all repairs.
• Our experience with insurance claims helps ensure you receive fair compensation.

Dealing with storm damage and insurance claims can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. Always Be Fair Roofing is here to assist you every step of the way, from initial damage assessment to final repairs. Our expertise in both roofing and the insurance claim process makes us a valuable partner in restoring your home after storm damage.