When it comes to repairing or replacing your home after an incident like storm damage, your insurance company will typically send out an adjuster to assess the damage and issue an estimate of what it will cost to repair or replace the damaged areas. But after receiving that estimate, some homeowners may feel compelled to shop around and get multiple contractor estimates to try and save money.
While it’s understandable to want to save money where you can, it’s important to understand that following the insurance estimate may actually be the best course of action. Here’s why:
First, it’s important to know that insurance companies have already done their due diligence in researching and pricing out the cost of repairs or roof replacement in your area. The estimate they provide takes into account labor, materials, and other factors that may impact the cost. If you were to get multiple contractor estimates, there’s a chance they may come in higher or lower than the insurance estimate, but in most cases, the insurance estimate is going to be the most accurate.
Secondly, by trying to find a contractor who will do the work for less than the insurance estimate, you may be sacrificing quality. If a contractor is willing to do the work for less than the insurance estimate, they may be cutting corners on materials or labor, which could lead to shoddy workmanship or the need for additional roof repairs in the future.
Lastly, there can be serious consequences to trying to find a contractor who will do the work for less than the insurance estimate. Insurance companies have specific guidelines and procedures for handling claims, and if you go against those guidelines, you could risk losing coverage altogether. Additionally, if you do find a contractor who is willing to do the work for less, but their estimate comes in higher than the insurance estimate, you may end up having to pay out of pocket for the difference.
Overall, it’s best to follow the insurance estimate and work with a reputable contractor who will perform the work to the specifications outlined in the estimate. This way, you can be assured that the work is done correctly and you’re not risking losing coverage or paying out of pocket for unexpected expenses.
