Posted by Proven Contracting No Comments on How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement in New Jersey Roofing, Roofing Contractor NJ

How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement in New Jersey

Proven Contracting’s Expert Guide for Homeowners

---

🌧️ Introduction: When Storm Damage Meets the Fine Print

You wake up after a New Jersey thunderstorm to find shingles scattered across your lawn or water dripping through the ceiling. Your first thought? Will insurance cover this roof damage?

At Proven Contracting, we’ve guided hundreds of Northern and Central NJ homeowners through the complex roof insurance claim process—from the first inspection to the final payout. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get your insurance to pay for roof replacement, including documentation, timing, and how to avoid common claim pitfalls.

---

🧱 Understanding What Homeowners Insurance Actually Covers

Most homeowners insurance policies protect against sudden and accidental damage—not normal aging or neglect. The key is to understand the difference:

✅ Covered (Typically):

• Wind or hail damage

• Falling tree limbs

• Fire or lightning

• Tornadoes and hurricanes (within policy limits)

🚫 Not Covered (Typically):

• Old or worn shingles

• Poor installation or ventilation issues

• Mold or rot from long-term leaks

Proven Tip: Take a few photos of your roof every year. This baseline helps prove “sudden” damage versus “wear and tear” if you ever file a claim.

---

⚡ Step 1: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Before calling your insurance company, contact a licensed roofing contractor—like Proven Contracting—to perform a detailed inspection.
Why? Because a contractor works for you, not the insurance company.

Our team documents:

• Shingle bruising or missing tabs

• Hail impact marks

• Broken seals and lifted flashing

• Moisture or decking damage inside the attic

We then provide a written inspection report and photo evidence formatted for insurer review.

Proven Tip: Never climb on your roof after a storm. Leave it to professionals trained in safe inspection and damage identification.

---

📸 Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly

When you file an insurance claim, documentation is everything.
Use these steps to protect your claim:

1. Take date-stamped photos and video from the ground and attic.

2. Keep any weather alerts or storm reports from the event.

3. Save receipts for emergency tarps or temporary repairs.

4. Request a written repair estimate from your contractor.

Insurers need proof that the damage occurred suddenly, not gradually. The more evidence you have, the faster your claim moves forward.

---

🕓 Step 3: File the Claim Promptly

Most insurance policies require claims to be filed within 6–12 months of the event. Waiting too long may void coverage.

When filing:

• Call your insurance company’s claims department (not your agent).

• Provide the date and cause of loss.

• Upload inspection photos and the contractor’s report.

An insurance adjuster will contact you to schedule a roof inspection—often accompanied by your contractor for verification.

---

💡 Step 4: Understand ACV vs. RCV Coverage

Insurance payouts depend on whether your policy offers Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage.

With RCV, insurers typically release funds in two payments:

1. The ACV check immediately after approval.

2. The recoverable depreciation once the work is complete and invoices are submitted.

Proven Tip: Proven Contracting provides itemized invoices and “proof of completion” documentation to help release your full depreciation check faster.

---

🧾 Step 5: Review the Adjuster’s Estimate

Once the adjuster submits their report, compare it to your contractor’s. Look for:

• Under-measured roof areas (common error)

• Missing line items like underlayment or ridge venting

• Incorrect material types (e.g., 3-tab vs. architectural shingles)

If discrepancies exist, your contractor can file a supplemental request with the insurer to correct pricing or scope.

---

🧰 Step 6: Proceed With Your Roof Replacement

After claim approval, choose a certified roofing contractor who:

• Understands NJ building codes and ice-shield requirements

• Provides manufacturer warranties (GAF, CertainTeed, etc.)

• Is licensed, insured, and experienced in insurance work

Proven Contracting’s storm-restoration process includes:

• Full tear-off (no overlays)

• Ice & water shield and synthetic underlayment

• Lifetime architectural shingles

• Detailed post-installation photos for insurance release

---

💬 Step 7: Handle Payment and Depreciation

You’ll typically receive:

1. A first check (minus deductible + depreciation).

2. A second check (the recoverable depreciation) once the insurer receives your proof of completion.

Submit all contractor invoices, receipts, and before/after photos to expedite this step.

---

🧭 Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Filing a claim without proof of storm damage
🚫 Ignoring small leaks or waiting too long
🚫 Accepting the first adjuster estimate without review
🚫 Hiring unlicensed or “storm chaser” contractors

A reputable NJ roofer like Proven Contracting knows the documentation insurers require and helps ensure you’re not short-changed on legitimate claims.

---

📚 Example: A Morris County Roof Insurance Claim

After a hailstorm in Randolph, NJ, a homeowner contacted Proven Contracting for a free inspection.
We documented:

• 62 hail impact points per 10 square feet

• Damaged ridge vents and flashing

• Interior ceiling moisture

After submitting our report, the insurer approved a full roof replacement under RCV coverage—saving the homeowner over $14,000 out of pocket.

---

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of roof damage are covered?
A: Most insurers cover sudden storm, wind, or hail damage—not long-term deterioration.

Q: Will a roof claim raise my premium?
A: Catastrophic weather claims typically don’t affect rates the same way as accidental or personal claims, but check with your carrier.

Q: Do I need multiple quotes?
A: Some insurers request them; others use standardized pricing software. Proven Contracting’s reports align with industry pricing to simplify approval.

Q: Can I choose my own roofer?
A: Yes. You’re not required to use your insurance company’s preferred contractor.

---

🏡 Why NJ Homeowners Trust Proven Contracting

• Local Expertise: Serving Morris, Somerset, Hunterdon & Union Counties

• Insurance Claim Support: We guide you from inspection to payout

• Certified Installation: GAF & CertainTeed roofing systems

• Full Documentation: Photos, reports, and warranty registration

• Honest Communication: No upselling, no hidden costs

---

📞 Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection

Don’t wait until your claim window closes.
Call Proven Contracting or visit ProvenContractingNJ.com to schedule your free storm-damage inspection and insurance claim consultation today.

Our team will document your roof properly, meet with your adjuster, and help you get the coverage you deserve.