What Homeowners Should Know About Roof Damage and Insurance Claims in Idaho
Whether insurance pays for roof damage depends on your policy, the cause of the damage and your insurer's determination. A roofer can document damage and estimate repairs, but only your insurance company decides what's covered.
Start with your policy
Homeowners policies differ. Before you file, find out your deductible, including whether you have a separate deductible for wind or hail. Also check whether your roof is covered at replacement cost or actual cash value, because actual cash value policies take the roof's age into account. Your agent can explain the terms.
Insurance generally exists for sudden damage from covered events, not for normal wear and aging. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.
How the process usually works
- Document the damage with dated photos, from the ground
- Prevent further damage where it's safe, and keep receipts
- Get an inspection so you know what's damaged
- Contact your insurer to start a claim, if you decide to file
- Meet the adjuster, who inspects the roof for the insurance company
- Review the insurer's decision and paperwork
- Schedule repairs with the contractor you choose
What a roofer can and can't do
A contractor can inspect your roof, take photos, explain what they found and give you a written repair estimate. Bravo Roofing can provide all of that.
A contractor can't decide what your policy covers, and can't promise that a claim will be approved or paid. Be wary of anyone who says otherwise.
Protect yourself
- Read anything before you sign it, and don't sign under pressure
- Be cautious of anyone offering to pay or waive your deductible
- Keep copies of your photos, estimates and insurance letters
- Note your policy's deadlines for reporting damage
- Check a contractor's Idaho registration and reviews
If you disagree with the decision
Ask your insurer to explain the decision in writing, and ask what additional information they would review. If you can't resolve it, the Idaho Department of Insurance can help you understand your options.
Frequently asked questions
Will filing a claim raise my insurance rates?
It can, depending on your insurer and your claim history. Ask your agent before you file, especially if the repair cost is close to your deductible.
Do I have to use the roofer my insurance company recommends?
Ask your insurer about your policy, but homeowners can generally choose their own contractor. Compare credentials and written estimates as you would for any project.
Related pages
Roofing Certifications & Manufacturer Credentials
You shouldn't have to take our word for it. Each of these can be checked with the organization that issued it.
GAF Certified Plus™ Contractor
GAF lists Bravo Roofing LLC in its contractor directory as a Certified Plus™ roofing contractor.
View our GAF profileBBB A+ Accredited Business
Bravo Roofing LLC has been a BBB Accredited Business since February 2023 and holds an A+ rating.
View our BBB profileRegistered Idaho Contractor
Idaho contractor registration RCE-59181. You can look up any contractor's registration through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses.
Idaho contractor lookupManufacturer Warranty Options
As a GAF Certified Plus™ contractor, Bravo Roofing can offer GAF's System Plus and Silver Pledge™ limited warranties on qualifying GAF roofing systems. Coverage and length depend on the products installed and the warranty terms, so we put the exact warranty for your roof in writing with your estimate.