Navigating Storm Damage Claims in South Florida: Why Local Roofing Expertise Makes All the Difference

When hurricane winds tear through Broward County, homeowners face a double challenge: dealing with the immediate aftermath of roof damage and navigating the complex world of insurance claims. The difference between a successful claim and a frustrating denial often comes down to one critical factor – working with contractors who truly understand local insurance practices and requirements.

The Unique Insurance Landscape in Broward County

Broward County has experienced a substantial increase in “assignment of benefit” lawsuits filed by contractors, with the number of AOB lawsuits rising from 400 per year to about 40,000 over the last decade, leading to higher homeowner insurance premiums. This dramatic shift in the legal landscape means that insurance companies have become increasingly scrutinizing of claims, making local expertise more valuable than ever.

Florida’s roofing laws have changed significantly, including modifications to the 25% rule for roof damage in 2022. Previously, if a roof sustained damage exceeding 25% of its total area, insurance companies were required to pay for a full roof replacement. However, the new law allows insurance companies discretionary authority to pay for repairs instead of replacement if the roof meets 2007 Florida Building Code requirements.

The Critical Role of Documentation and Timing

Under Florida law, homeowners must notify their insurance company of any property damage within a specific time frame—usually within 30 days of the storm. The three-year window in Florida to file a windstorm or hurricane claim requires property owners to employ time wisely, dedicating efforts to gather comprehensive evidence and making a punctual claim.

Proper documentation is essential for successful claims. Documentation is critical for Florida insurance claims, requiring clear photos of damaged areas (interior and exterior), saved timestamps and weather reports to verify the storm’s impact, and a written list of damage to include in your claim.

Why Local Contractors Make the Difference

Working with a roofing contractor broward county residents trust brings several advantages. Aastro Roofing is a trusted roofing contractor in Broward & Palm Beach County, FL, serving as part of the anchor of these communities and offering homeowners dependable roofing approaches with a focus on supplying value through diligent work and clear communication.

Florida law requires homeowners to hire licensed contractors for roofing work. A professional contractor can identify hidden or subtle damage often overlooked by adjusters, provide a detailed estimate to strengthen your claim, and assist with meeting Florida-specific building code requirements.

Understanding Local Insurance Challenges

Insurance companies are businesses that may try to avoid paying for substantial damages if they can find ways to do so. When property is damaged and a claim is filed, insurance companies send adjusters to assess the “scope of loss,” but adjusters come from all over the country with no uniform method for assessing damage, potentially resulting in completely different cost estimates.

It is not uncommon for insurance companies to try and minimize the amount of damages they have to pay, using vague wording in their policies on what is covered and what isn’t to try and undervalue or even flat-out deny valid claims.

The Value of Experience and Integrity

Centrally located in Deerfield Beach, Aastro Roofing Company is managed and operated by family members with a vested interest in the company’s success and customer satisfaction. Their family-oriented approach ensures personalized service and attention to detail, with a mission to provide the highest quality roofing solutions using top-grade materials and the latest industry techniques.

As a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, Aastro Roofing treats roofing projects as if they were their own, priding themselves on the quality of their work and commitment to outstanding results while building lasting relationships and guaranteeing customer satisfaction.

Protecting Your Investment

Property owners in Broward County know the potential havoc that Florida’s tempestuous weather can wreak on commercial roofing. From thunderstorms to hurricanes, the elements test the integrity and durability of even the best roofing systems, making it paramount for property owners to comprehend the urgency of addressing roof damage posthaste.

To comply with Florida insurance policies, property owners must take steps to prevent further damage after a storm by using tarps, plywood, or waterproof materials to protect their roof, while keeping receipts and photos of all temporary repairs to include in their claim.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Successfully navigating insurance claims in Broward County requires more than just filing paperwork – it demands working with professionals who understand the intricate relationship between local building codes, insurance requirements, and Florida’s unique weather challenges. As a family-operated business, contractors like Aastro Roofing prioritize building lasting relationships with customers and treating each project with the care and attention it deserves, always doing what’s best for their customers.

When storm damage strikes your property, remember that the contractor you choose can make the difference between a smooth insurance claim process and months of frustration. Choose wisely, choose locally, and choose contractors who understand that your roof is more than just shingles and tiles – it’s the protection that keeps your family and investments safe.