Key Things to Know if You Have Storm or Hail Damage

The Insurance Restoration Process can be a confusing and stressful process. Please review our articles here and contact us if you have any questions!

1. Before Filing a Claim:

Call a contractor that specializes in dealing with storm damage insurance claims, to come out to your home and give you a FREE inspection. If there is no damage to your home, there is no sense in wasting your time or filing an unnecessary claim.

2. If You DO Have Damage That Justifies Initiating a Claim:

Make sure that you have the contractor that you choose to do your work meet with the adjuster when they come out to perform your adjustment. Make sure that you call your insurance company as soon as possible and have the date that the storm and damage occurred ready. Also let them know that your contractor will be there at the adjustment and supply them with the name and phone number of said contractor.

Even though adjusters are trying their best, occasionally legitimate damage accidentally gets overlooked. Having your preferred contractor there as a second pair of eyes, to advocate on your behalf, is a FREE service that should be offered and is definitely recommended.

Make sure that the representative that you choose is one that you feel comfortable with representing you at your adjustment. You may already have this step completed, and if so, we need to set up an appointment to go over details of our company with you and explain why we believe that you should use DSS Exteriors over our competition.

3. There is no Need for Multiple Bids or Estimates:

Your insurance company is determining and dictating the price. Your out-of-pocket expense remains the same. Make sure that all you are required to pay is your deductible and that you have it in writing. Certain upgrades or added warranties may change this due to the fact that the insurance company is paying to restore what you currently have on your home.

4. BEWARE of Companies that Promise to give "FREE Upgrades" or that offer to pay your Deductible

Don't be fooled by companies that offer you things that are not in writing. If it seems "too good to be true", it most likely is. Also keep in mind that you want to choose a contractor that has references and will be in business for longer than a few years. Check the Better Business Bureau for more information and background on the companies that you are considering. Labor warranties are only good if the company is local (*MN) and in business. Pick a company that uses products or materials that are backed by a second and/or a third party. GAF shingle systems have their own guarantee but are also backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal. GAF is proudly the largest shingle manufacturer in the U.S. and has a plant right here in NE Minneapolis, MN.

5. Most Insurance Companies Use a Multiple Payment System:

Upon the approval of necessary repairs, they typically pay 50-75% and the remaining amount is paid after the work is completed. Your contractor should have experience in getting the remaining amount released to you. This ensures that the insurance company only pays for the cost of the repairs. If your contractor is charging you less than what the insurance company has allotted for, your insurance company will keep the difference. Once you have received the checks from the insurance company, that is when the payment is due for either the down payment or final payment. If your contractor performs multiple repairs to your home, you may get additional funds send to you which are also to be given to the contractor upon receipt.

MN Lic.#20626389