English 
Español 
When it comes to home insurance claims, the roof is one of the most important parts of a house. If you’ve recently filed a claim for roof damage, you may be wondering what to expect from the insurance adjuster who will inspect your roof. The adjuster’s job is to assess the extent and cause of the damage and determine how much the insurance company will pay for the repairs or replacement. Here are a few key things insurance adjusters look for when inspecting a roof.
Age & Condition
Insurance adjusters want to know the age of the roof and its overall condition. If the roof is old and in poor condition, it’s more susceptible to damage and will likely not receive full coverage. On the other hand, if the roof is new and in excellent condition, it’s less likely to sustain damage and will likely receive full coverage.
Type of Material
The type of material used in the roof is also important. Some materials are more durable and resistant to damage than others. For example, metal roofs are more resistant to wind damage than asphalt shingle roofs. Insurance adjusters take this into account when assessing the risk of damage and the level of coverage that should be provided.
Extent of the Damage
If there’s visible damage to the roof, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracked or broken tiles, rusted or dented metal panels, or areas that are sagging or leaking, this will affect the level of coverage the policyholder receives. The insurance adjuster will assess the extent of the damage and determine how much it will cost to repair or replace the roof. The adjustor will also check if the damage has affected other parts of your home, such as the attic, ceiling, walls, or flooring.
Cause of the Damage
The adjuster will try to determine what caused the damage to your roof, such as hail, wind, fire, vandalism, or a fallen tree. The adjuster will look for evidence of the event, such as hailstones, debris, scorch marks, or impact marks, and also check if the damage was sudden and accidental or gradual and preventable. For example, if your roof was damaged by a storm, you may be covered by your policy, but if it was damaged by neglect or lack of maintenance, you may not be covered.
Proper Installation
If the roof wasn’t properly installed, it may be more prone to damage and will likely not receive full coverage. Insurance adjusters will look for signs of improper installation, such as missing flashing or improper ventilation.
Maintenance Records
Regular maintenance is important for preventing damage and ensuring your roof remains in good condition. Your insurance adjuster may ask for maintenance records to determine if the roof was properly maintained and assess the level of damage. This information can be helpful in determining the cause of damage and the level of coverage that should be provided.
Policy Coverage & Exclusions
The adjuster will review your policy and see what kind of coverage you have for roof damage. The adjuster will also check if there are any exclusions or limitations that apply to your claim. For example, some policies may only cover certain types of roofing materials, or there may be a depreciation factor that reduces the value of your roof over time. Some policies may also exclude certain causes of damage, such as mold, fungus, or wear and tear.
The insurance adjuster’s inspection is an important step in the claim process, and it can affect how much money you’ll receive from your insurance company for your roof damage. You can prepare for the inspection by reviewing your policy, documenting the damage with photos or videos, and contacting a reputable roofing contractor to get an estimate for the repairs or replacement.
By taking proactive measures to ensure the health and safety of their roofs, homeowners can protect their investments and have peace of mind knowing they’re covered in case of damage or disaster. For reliable, affordable home insurance, San Diego homeowners know they can trust Altra Insurance Services. We also provide renters, commercial, motorcycle, and auto insurance. San Diego residents can receive a free quote by calling one of our friendly agents today at (800) 719-9972.