To file a storm damage claim or wait… that is the question!
The weather in Oklahoma is unpredictable at times, to say the least. Significant hail and wind storms have been known to occur as late as September – months after the “traditional” storm season we are used to. This can be problematic for homeowners who wish to avoid filing multiple homeowners insurance claims in a year. Getting a brand new roof installed that is only again damaged by severe weather is also a concern.
Should homeowners wait to file a storm damage claim until the winter when the threat of severe weather is low?
We get asked this question a lot by Oklahoma City homeowners needing roof repairs due to storm damage. In fact, almost all homeowners who are impacted by hail or wind in early March/April know they have damage but wait to file a claim.
This isn’t always the best course of action.
While each situation is different, it does not benefit the homeowner in any way to wait to file a storm damage claim, even if the threat of more severe weather exists. Aside from opening up your home to more damage, waiting to file a storm damage claim creates additional problems that you won’t be able to avoid. Below is an example we see happen every year.
What Happens If You Wait To File A Storm Damage Claim?
- Storm impacts home in early April and causes roof/siding damage
- The homeowner knows damage exists but waits to file a claim
- Finally filed a claim later in August/September
- The claim process takes 60-90 days to finish
- A Roof cannot be installed in winter due to low temperatures
- The roof installation gets later the following year
Because your roof is the single biggest element of protection for your home, it must be in fully functioning condition at all times. Any lingering damage caused by hail or high winds can exponentially increase the cost of repairs.
What Homeowners Should Do To File A Storm Damage Claim
If your home has been damaged and you need to file a storm damage claim, do it now. The entire claim process can take time. Delays could happen depending on how many other homeowners were impacted at the same time.
Once the claim process is started, a reputable roofing company will be able to ensure your roof gets scheduled. In some cases, your insurance company and policy may have a set window on when repairs can be made after the insurance company has settled the claim. This means you can choose the date your roof is installed and make sure it is at the end of the storm season. This helps you avoid the end-of-season rush to get roofs put on before winter.
Need Help With Your Roof? Get In Touch!
At Triple Diamond Construction, we encourage you to be diligent when researching a contractor to install your next roof! Your roof protects your home and everything in it. Make sure it’s done right the first time! We are proud to be Oklahoma City’s best roofing contractor and have been serving the roofing needs of homeowners for over a decade! If you need help from a local roofer and expect the best, then give us a call for a free inspection today!
