Here in Littleton and around the Denver area, we are approaching the severe weather season for our area. After such severe storms you may have concerns about your roof’s condition.
QUICK FACTS:
Over the past five years, Littleton, Colorado home owners have faced significant roof damage due to frequent hailstorms and severe weather, with notable events in 2017, 2022, and 2023 causing widespread destruction. The 2017 storm alone caused $2.3 billion in statewide damages, and recent years have seen dozens of hail reports and multiple severe weather warnings. Roof repair costs in Littleton range from around $400 for minor fixes to over $15,000 for full replacements, with insurance playing a critical role in covering expenses. As a result, many homeowners have experienced rising premiums, highlighting the importance of regular roof inspections and storm-resistant materials.
When your roof sustains damage, whether from a storm, hail, or a fallen tree—one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to call your insurance company or a professional roofer first. This can be a confusing process, especially when dealing with the stress and uncertainty that comes with roof damage. And for most people, roof damage can be hard to spot from the ground.
In Colorado, where weather conditions can be unpredictable and intense, understanding how to navigate the repair and insurance claims process is essential for ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience. Don’t worry, we’ll break down the best steps to take when dealing with roof damage and explain whether you should contact a roofer or insurance company first.
BEST STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A STORM DAMAGES YOUR ROOF
- Assess the Situation: Is It Safe to Stay in the Home?
Before making any calls, the first priority is your safety. Have a professional roofing contractor come out and assess your roof for damage. Anderson Builders provide FREE ROOF inspections to Littleton and Denver metro home owners. If the damage is significant enough to pose a risk to your home’s structural integrity—such as a large hole in the roof, sagging, or water coming through the ceiling—leave the property immediately and contact emergency services if necessary. You may need to temporarily relocate or secure your home to prevent further damage.
Once safety is assured, you can begin the process of addressing the damage. The next question is whether you should contact your roofer or your insurance provider first?
- Should You Call a Roofer First?
In many cases, it’s a good idea to call a professional roofer like Anderson Builders, LLC first. Here’s why:
A Professional Roofer Can Provide a Thorough Inspection and Damage Assessment
Roof damage can sometimes be difficult to assess without the right expertise. A roofer can conduct a detailed inspection, not only identifying obvious damage but also uncovering hidden issues that might not be immediately visible, such as leaks or structural concerns. This is especially important after Colorado’s intense hailstorms or heavy snowfalls, which can cause significant roof damage that’s not easily spotted from the ground.
Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage
If the damage is substantial, your roofer may be able to provide temporary repairs to prevent further issues—like water leakage or mold growth—while you wait for the insurance adjuster to inspect the roof. Taking immediate action to minimize damage can reduce the overall repair costs and help ensure that the claim process goes more smoothly.
Professional Documentation
Roofers are experienced in documenting roof damage. If you plan to file an insurance claim, having a professional roofer provide an assessment and photos of the damage can help you present a clear case to your insurer. A detailed report from a roofer can show the severity of the damage, ensuring that your insurance company has the necessary information to process your claim.
Avoid Unnecessary Claims
Beware of dishonest fly-by-night roofing companies! Despite what the storm-chasing out-of-state roofers may tell you when they are knocking on doors, your roof may not be damaged. We have seen some roofs withstand storms totally differently than their neighbors. This can be due to many reasons like roofing material, age of shingles, angles of their roof, and direction of the storm. Do not immediately make a claim because a sales associate tells you to. Have a thorough roof inspection done by Anderson Builders LLC first. We never knock on doors and only make inspections after a homeowner reaches out.
Anderson Builders Representative Can Meet with Your Insurance
After we have advised you of the damage, and you call your insurance company they will schedule an adjuster to come out and do an inspection. Often homeowners appreciate having a professional roofer there to put up a ladder, circle hail marks and discuss with the adjuster anything they have noticed.
- Should You Call Insurance First?
While calling a roofer first can be beneficial, there are times when reaching out to your insurance company first makes more sense:
Understanding Your Coverage
Insurance policies vary, and knowing your coverage details can help you make informed decisions. Some insurance providers require that you report damage within a specific timeframe to ensure the damage is covered. By calling your insurer first, you’ll be able to understand what’s covered, what’s not, and any requirements for filing a claim. You might also want to check if they have preferred contractors or roofing companies they work with for repairs.
Filing the Claim
Once you contact your insurance provider and decide to make a claim, they will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. The adjuster will assess the situation, estimate the cost of repairs, and decide whether your policy covers the damage.
Insurance Helps with Major Repairs
If the damage is significant, your insurance coverage could potentially cover the cost of the repair or replacement, especially if it’s from a covered event like a hailstorm.
- The Bottom Line: Call Both, But Know When
The best approach to dealing with roof damage in Colorado is often to contact both your roofer and your insurance company—but in the right order.
- Call a Roofer First: If you need immediate repairs, if the damage is extensive, or if you want a professional opinion to help you navigate the claim process, your roofer can be the first step. They can assess the situation, take photos, and begin temporary repairs to prevent further issues. When Anderson Builders does an inspection they can let you know if there is enough damage to make a claim.
- Call Insurance: If you’re unsure about your coverage, or if you need to understand how your claim will be processed, it may be best to contact your insurance provider first. Don’t worry, you have 12-months from the date of the storm to contact your insurance and make a claim.
Remember, it’s essential to stay proactive after roof damage, and taking the right steps in the right order will help ensure that your home is repaired properly, quickly, and cost-effectively.
Conclusion
Roof damage is a stressful situation for any homeowner but knowing whether to call a roofer or your insurance provider first can help you stay ahead of the situation. In Colorado, where weather conditions can be unpredictable, acting quickly is key to minimizing damage and maximizing your coverage. Whether you reach out to your roofer or insurance provider first, make sure you take the necessary steps to protect your home and your investment.
If you’re dealing with roof damage and unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to give Anderson Builders LLC a call. 303-829-6276. We are a small locally owned contractor for over 15 years. We can help guide you through the process, from inspection to repairs, and work directly with your insurance company to ensure a smooth experience.
Contact Us:
Need help after a storm? Our team of residential expert roofers is here to help. Call Anderson Builders for a thorough inspection and professional repair services.
Anderson Builders is a family-owned, local, trusted roofing company with 5 Star Google reviews who will provide an honest and FREE roof repair or replacement estimates for any homeowner in the entire Denver metro area.
Let us help you protect your home with our top-notch roofing services in Littleton, CO.
