Roof Insurance and Hail Damage Questions for Billings Homeowners
Family-Owned and Operated
Customer Service Guaranteed
Experienced, Licensed, and Insured Professionals
Answers Built Around Real Roofing Experience
Use this page as a customer-facing FAQ resource, an AEO content page, and a source for future website schema. The answers are direct, local, and written to help both homeowners and search engines understand Kirkness Roofing’s process.
Kirkness Roofing Inc. has served Billings and South Central Montana since 1978. These answers should be placed on the matching service page, linked from the main FAQ page, and reused carefully in appointment follow-up emails or jAmIe scripts.
Insurance & Hail Damage FAQs
How do I file an insurance claim for roof damage?
First, have Kirkness Roofing inspect your roof. If we find damage, you contact your insurance agent and let them know Kirkness Roofing identified what appears to be hail or wind damage and that you want to file a claim. The claim starts with the homeowner.
What role does Kirkness Roofing play once my adjuster is involved?
We like to attend the inspection with the adjuster to help make sure damage is not overlooked. Our goal is to help reach agreement on the proper scope of work based on the wind or hail damage so the process moves efficiently.
What if insurance approves only a partial repair but the roof needs replacement?
If only a partial repair is approved but a full replacement is needed, we provide documentation explaining why. Often this involves code or installation requirements that adjusters may not be trained on or familiar with.
How do I handle recoverable depreciation?
Recoverable depreciation is usually released after the work is completed and the final invoice is sent to the insurance carrier. Some carriers may release depreciation earlier with a signed contract. We help guide homeowners through the carrier-specific process.
What if the adjuster’s estimate seems too low?
If the estimate seems low, we can help supplement the claim. Many times the issue is a missing line item or measurement error. Supplementing adds needed items to the existing claim; it does not create a new claim.
Can I upgrade roofing materials beyond what insurance covers?
Yes. Insurance generally pays for like-kind replacement of the damaged material. If you choose upgraded materials, the additional cost above insurance coverage is the homeowner’s responsibility.
How long does the insurance claim process usually take?
A roof-only claim often takes around 30 days, but timelines depend on carrier response time and claim complexity. Claims involving siding, gutters, windows, or paint can take longer.
What happens if my claim is denied or underpaid?
If your claim is denied or underpaid and we believe additional coverage is warranted, we can provide photos, code documentation, and manufacturer specifications to support a supplement or second inspection request.
Does insurance cover required code upgrades?
The easiest way to know is to contact your insurance agent and ask whether your policy includes ordinance and law coverage. Many HO-3 policies include it, but the agent should confirm your specific coverage.
If I have an older roof, will insurance still cover full replacement?
Coverage for older roofs varies by policy. Some policies still offer replacement cost coverage, while others switch to actual cash value after a certain age, often around 10 or 15 years. Confirm the details with your agent.
Can I choose my own contractor for insurance work?
Unless your policy specifically requires participation in a managed repair program, the choice of contractor is usually yours. Most policies do not require the carrier to choose the contractor.
Will a prior insurance claim affect my ability to file a new claim?
A prior insurance claim usually does not stop you from filing a new claim. It matters if the previous damage was never repaired because insurance will not pay twice for the same damaged item.
What documentation should I provide when filing a claim?
Know the storm date, provide any photos you have, and include the damaged items found during our inspection when you first contact the carrier. That gives the claim a cleaner start.
What is the difference between a partial slope repair and full replacement?
Insurance may first evaluate whether a partial slope can be repaired. We review how that slope ties into other slopes and whether underlayments and system components can be properly integrated. If the repair is not appropriate, we begin the supplement process.
How is the deductible handled?
The deductible is the homeowner’s responsibility. It is against the law for a contractor to cover, waive, or help pay the deductible. If some claim items are not completed, the homeowner may use those ACV funds toward their deductible, but cannot claim replacement cost benefits for work not performed.
What happens if the actual cost is higher than the insurance estimate?
If the roof replacement costs more than the insurance estimate, we submit a supplement with the additional costs. In some situations, we may also negotiate depending on the details of the claim.
How is the claim closed out after work is complete?
We complete an in-house final inspection to confirm the work meets the contract and any code requirements. Then either the homeowner or Kirkness Roofing, if requested, submits the final invoice to insurance to recover any held depreciation.
How do you communicate with the insurance company?
We typically communicate by email so there is a record of the conversation. Phone calls may also be used. Homeowners are kept informed by being copied on emails or updated after phone calls.
What if my policy has a matching provision?
If a matching provision applies and the product cannot be matched, the carrier may be responsible for replacing the affected area needed to create a consistent result. If no matching provision applies, we find the closest available option and review it with the homeowner while still considering code and manufacturer requirements.
What is the homeowner responsible for during the claim?
The homeowner files the initial claim, notifies us of inspections, provides insurance documents, and may need to contact the agent if significant issues arise during the supplement process.
What happens if hidden damage is found during replacement?
If hidden damage is found, we immediately contact the carrier with documentation and photos. If approval is delayed and weather is a concern, we tarp the area to protect the interior until direction is received.
What is the difference between ACV and replacement cost coverage?
Replacement cost coverage is the amount to replace damaged items with new materials. Actual cash value is that amount minus depreciation based on age and condition. Recoverable depreciation is typically paid after the work is completed and invoices are submitted.
What if the adjuster misses something?
If an item is missed, we provide photographic evidence and pricing through our estimate or supplement. Once coverage is extended or the supplement is approved, the process continues normally.
How are homeowners updated during installation?
If the homeowner is present, we update them in person. If they are away, we may send text updates or videos. Once our in-house inspection is complete, the office sends the final invoice.
What if I disagree with the claim outcome?
We review the specific situation with the homeowner. When appropriate, we supplement the carrier with evidence showing why the claim needs adjustment or why additional items should be added.
Should I file a claim for minor repairs?
If the cost of repair is lower than the deductible, we typically do not recommend filing a claim. In that case, paying out of pocket is usually more practical.
What should I document after a storm?
Do not climb on the roof unless you are experienced and comfortable doing so. Photograph hail size next to a reference object such as a tape measure or coin, and document visible damage to siding, windows, gutters, or other exterior components. If hail is over about 1.5 inches, call a roofing professional for inspection.
How do I choose a contractor for insurance-related roof work?
Choose a contractor experienced in insurance claims. Kirkness Roofing has former adjusters on staff and nearly five decades of experience in Billings, a hail-driven market. That experience helps homeowners navigate the claim process more effectively.
What if my insurance claim is delayed?
Homeowners are required by policy to make reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Kirkness Roofing can assist with that, especially when roof access is needed because roof climbing is dangerous for most homeowners.
Do manufacturer warranties cover hail or wind damage?
Manufacturer warranties do not cover hail or excessive wind damage. Those situations are handled through insurance coverage, not the manufacturer’s product warranty.
How is a reinspection requested?
If a second inspection or reinspection is needed, the homeowner must request it directly from the insurance agent. The contractor cannot make that request for the homeowner, but we can be present once it is scheduled.
What if the mortgage company is listed on the insurance check?
If the mortgage company is listed on the insurance check, the homeowner needs to contact the mortgage company directly to learn its funds-release requirements. The carrier typically does not send the check directly to the mortgage company.
Will my premiums go up after a hail claim?
During act-of-God events such as hailstorms, windstorms, or hurricanes, carriers typically base premium changes on the amount paid out in a zip code or area, not whether one individual homeowner filed a claim.
What if I do not understand my insurance paperwork?
Our representatives can help review claim paperwork and explain terms or definitions that are confusing. We can assist homeowners from start to finish through the insurance claim process.
What if insurance recommends one repair method and Kirkness recommends another?
We discuss the issue with the adjuster and provide reasons why a different or more complete repair may be needed. Roofing is a system, not just shingles, so the integrity of the entire system must be considered.
Hire a Team of Roofing Experts You Can Trust
At Kirkness Roofing Inc., we strongly believe that every roof is unique and needs a specific touch of quality craftsmanship. From residential to commercial roofing, we stand tall as a Billings roofing contractor you can depend on to get each job done right—every time. We aren't happy until you love the finished product, and we aren't satisfied unless you love your entire roofing experience.
We want you to be at ease knowing that you chose the right local roofing company for the job. If it's time for your next roofing project, give Kirkness Roofing Inc. a call. We cannot wait to serve you.