Hail damage is a risk that you have to mitigate as a homeowner. Living in Calgary means that hail damage is something that could potentially happen to any home, and many homeowners realize the need to be insured against this kind of damage. Making a claim for hail damage is unclear to many homeowners. Like many insurance issues, hail damage claims have several misconceptions which can hinder a homeowner getting adequately compensated.  What are these misconceptions?

It Is A Must To Wait To File A Claim

You should not wait for the last minute to make a claim.  You should contact your insurance as soon as you suspect that you have hail damage. It is better to err on the side of caution and have the insurance telling you to wait as the “ball will be in their court”.

It Is A Must To Use Your Insurance Company’s Preferred Contractors

Although using the insurance company’s preferred contractors makes paperwork easier, it is not a must that you use these contractors. If you have a contractor who can do quality work, you are free to engage him as long as he agrees to the terms of your insurance.

There Is No Suspected Hail Damage

The only way to clear this suspicion is by having a close inspection of the roof. Small leaks can cause massive damage over the long term if they are not discovered early.

There Is Not Enough Damage To Make A Claim

No damage is small enough not to warrant your attention and repair. Small leaks that go unnoticed or unattended can cause massive damage over a long time such that it becomes very expensive to repair the damage. You should file a claim for all damages no matter how small they are. However, you can ignore them if the repair costs are less than your deductibles.

The Shingle Manufacturer/Roofing Contractor Will Cover The Damage

This will not be possible. The manufacturer covers damage caused by poor quality or defects in the shingle while the roofing contractor will only guarantee against poor workmanship. A natural occurrence like hail damage is only covered by the insurance.

The Policy Will Be Cancelled Or Rates Will Go Up

Your insurance would be going against the law cancelling your policy when you make a claim. Similarly, the rates on your present coverage will not be increased. The insurance can only increase the rates after your coverage expires.

It Is Best To Wait For Spring Or Summer To Repair The Damage

Failing to repair the damage when it happens can cause further damage. Get quotes for the work as soon as possible and avoid the spring/summer chaos when most people are scrambling for roofing contractors.