Before You File: Why Your Insurance Declaration Page Matters
What is an Insurance Declaration Page?
An insurance declaration page, or “dec page,” is a summary of your homeowner policy’s key details. It outlines critical information such as your coverage limits, deductible amount, and the specific types of roof damage your insurance covers. In short, it’s your go-to document to understand the protection your home insurance offers.
Why is it Important to Check Your Insurance Declaration Page Before Submitting a Roof Damage Claim?
Before filing a claim for a damaged roof, it’s crucial to review your insurance declaration page carefully. This document will confirm whether roof repairs due to specific damages — like storms or leaks — are covered by your policy. Checking the dec page can prevent surprises such as claim denials or high out-of-pocket expenses due to coverage exclusions or deductibles that may be higher than expected. By reviewing it first, you can decide if filing a claim is even necessary or financially beneficial. At 1st Choice, we want you to protect your claim history, and we have experience collaborating with insurance adjusters during inspections to achieve the best outcome.
Always Request a Certificate of Insurance from your Roofing Company
In the state of Missouri, roofers are not required by law to be licensed and insured. That’s why you should always ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before hiring a roofer. This document proves that the roofing company has the necessary liability and workers’ compensation insurance to cover any accidents or damages that might occur while working on your roof. If your roofer isn’t insured and an incident happens, you could be held financially responsible for damages or injuries. Ensuring the roofer has proper insurance protects you from potential legal and financial headaches.
1st Choice Construction is fully licensed and insured and our COI is available upon request.
Call Us Before Making an Insurance Claim
Before you jump to file an insurance claim for roof damage, call 1st Choice for a free inspection first. We can assess the damage, determine if it’s minor or severe, and provide an estimate. In some cases, the cost of repairs may be lower than your deductible, making it unnecessary to file a claim. If we confirm extensive damage, our assessment can strengthen your claim by providing documentation that supports your case.
Our Smarter Claims Process
1st Choice ensures a smooth process for making smarter claims. First, we thoroughly document and prioritize all damages. Together, we’ll walk through the agreement process, selecting the style, color, and quality of materials from our extensive inventory. And we’ll determine how the materials will be replaced or installed.
An initial price estimate is provided, and our experienced project managers will collaborate with your insurance company to finalize the pricing. Keep in mind, pricing is subject to the replacement cost value determined by your insurer. Typically, the insurance carrier will split payments into two portions and may include your mortgage company on the first or second payment.
In conclusion, reviewing your insurance declaration page before filing a claim is an important first step in avoiding unnecessary costs and ensuring a smooth claims process. At 1st Choice Construction, we’re here to assist you every step of the way, from providing thorough inspections to collaborating with your insurance company for the best results. Protect your home and your claim history by making informed decisions — reach out to us for a free estimate.
