We are headed into peak season for extreme weather – from hurricanes in the South to ice storms in the Midwest, a commercial roof can take a beating. When your roof is damaged and you need to file an insurance claim, however, it’s easy to make costly mistakes that delay your request—or worse, lead to a denial. In this article, we’ll explore how to navigate your policy to ensure you get the compensation you need and deserve.

Mistakes that May Hurt Your Insurance Claim

Delaying the Claim: One of the most common mistakes that property managers make is waiting too long to report roof damage. Whether it’s storm-related, hail, or wind damage, insurance companies often have strict deadlines for filing claims. The longer you wait, the harder it is to prove the cause and extent of the damage. Always inspect your roof after a major weather event and contact your insurance provider—and your roofing contractor—promptly.

Failing to Document the Damage: Insurance claims rely heavily on documentation. If you don’t provide detailed evidence of the damage, your claim may be undervalued or denied altogether. Before making any repairs (unless it’s an emergency to prevent further damage), take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, including:

Damaged roofing materials
Interior leaks or water stains
Debris or fallen branches
Before-and-after images, if available

Did You Know? At Unicoat Industrial Roofing, we provide thorough roof inspections with documentation to strengthen your claim.

Not Understanding Your Policy: Commercial roofing insurance policies can be complex. Some only cover specific types of damage or depreciate the value of older roofs. Others may exclude “wear and tear” or limit coverage based on the type of roofing system. Take the time to review your policy or consult with an insurance expert to understand your deductible, coverage limits, exclusions and time limits. Knowing what’s covered can help you set realistic expectations and avoid disputes.

Making Temporary Repairs Without Approval: While it’s smart to prevent further damage (such as tarping a roof leak), making extensive repairs before the insurance adjuster has inspected the property can jeopardize your claim. The insurer might argue that the original damage can no longer be verified. Always check with your insurance provider before starting repairs—and keep all receipts for any temporary fixes.

Not Using a Reputable Roofing Contractor: Some business owners rely solely on the insurance adjuster’s report without getting a second opinion. Unfortunately, not all adjusters catch everything, and some may underestimate the scope of damage. Partnering with a licensed, experienced commercial roofer like Unicoat Roof ensures a more accurate assessment and fair claim.

Assuming the Insurance Company Is Always Right: While many insurers operate in good faith, their primary goal is to minimize payouts. If your claim is denied or the settlement is lower than expected, don’t hesitate to challenge it. Get an independent roof inspection and consider hiring a public adjuster or roofing contractor who can support your case with professional documentation.

Not Keeping a Paper Trail: Every conversation with your insurance company, adjuster, and contractor should be documented. Keep emails, written estimates, inspection reports, and notes from phone calls. If your claim is delayed or disputed, this paper trail will provide the evidence you need to support your position.

Protect Your Property with Unicoat Industrial Roofing

Navigating an insurance claim can be a headache – but it doesn’t have to be. With the right guidance, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your commercial roof gets the attention—and coverage—it deserves.

Contact Unicoat Industrial Roofing today to set up an initial inspection and to discuss setting up a maintenance service contract. Understanding the condition of your roof before and after an event helps you to make smart decisions that protect your investment.