How do I know if I have damage to my home?
Some damage to your roof or siding may be evident by casual observation. However, some damages are more subtle and require the inspection of a trained professional. We offer Free Inspections and Estimates, with no obligation to you. A brief inspection will provide you with peace of mind, or provide you with the information you need to take further steps.
Won’t a claim increase my premiums?
There is no penalty for filing a claim if you suspect catastrophic damage. You also cannot be singled out for a rate increase, regardless of whether the insurance company pays for damages or not.
Why do I need to choose a contracting company – can’t my insurance company help me with that?
When you file a a claim with your insurance company they will send their adjuster to inspect your property. If you find a qualified company to work with your insurance company, you will be working with someone that is representing your best interests. Typically, if you work with an independent company to represent you, the result of the claim will be more favorable, as the insurance company may place their interests before yours.
Should I get multiple quotes for the work?
Unlike other replacement projects, you should not be concerned with finding the “lowest price” for the project. In doing this, you will be saving the insurance company money (which does not benefit you or your home) or the insurance company may suspect you of insurance fraud and attempting to make a profit from your claim.
When should I find a company to represent me?
It is best if you can find a company before your adjuster inspects the property. Many professional storm restoration companies will inspect your property and advise you of whether or not you should pursue claim restoration. They will meet with the adjuster on your behalf, settle the claim fairly, and work with you to reduce or eliminate the amount you are obligated to pay through your deductible. When done properly, the hardest decision you will have is selecting the colors for your new components!
How should I choose a company?
Working with a company that you trust and feel comfortable with are the most important. Ask the company about how they will best serve to represent you and your home’s interests. Selecting a local company will also provide you with peace of mind, should anything happen to your home that would require future service. We recommend homeowners read our link about How to Select a Contractor, as many of these points are relevant for insurance work.
There are many companies that seek out storm damage and insurance work as their primary source of income. We advise homeowners to take into consideration the following:
- Is the company local? Do they have a state license? Do they have local employees? Are the license plates for their vehicles local?
- What experience does the company have with local customers? Can they provide references?
- What credentials does the company have? Many companies that seek out storm and insurance claims are not certified by manufacturers and will only restore your home according to the insurance guidelines and settlement!
- What warranty would the contractor provide me? Will they be here if I have an issue with my roof in the future?
American Custom Contractors is a local, family-owned business. We have provided services to homeowners in the Washington DC Metro area for nearly 40 years, including hundreds of projects as a result of insurance claim settlements. Our goal for each project is to include a replacement of the roof that meets the manufacturers requirements, even if the insurance company does not include these upgrades in their initial estimate. We provide warranties for our work, and since we are a local company, we will be here for any future problems that may arise.
