Hurricanes are a harsh reminder of nature’s power, often leaving significant damage in their wake. When your home is exposed to hurricane-force winds, rain, or flying debris, one of the most vulnerable parts is the roof. It’s common to rely on your insurance company to assess the damage through their adjuster. However, there are compelling reasons to consider hiring a licensed home inspector to perform a roof inspection before the insurance adjuster even steps foot on your property. If this inspector is also certified by the FAA with a Part 107 certification, the benefits multiply.
Here’s why a proactive roof inspection from a licensed inspector, especially one with a Part 107 certification, is the smart choice for homeowners dealing with post-hurricane damage.
1. Establish an Unbiased Baseline Assessment
When you hire a licensed home inspector, you’re getting a professional who works for you, not your insurance company. Their only goal is to provide an honest and thorough evaluation of your roof’s condition. This independent assessment can serve as a baseline for comparing the findings of your insurance adjuster. If discrepancies arise, you’ll have a documented report from a certified expert to support your claim.
Advantage: Avoid the risk of underestimating damage, which can happen if the insurance adjuster prioritizes minimizing payouts.
2. A Detailed, Comprehensive Report with Documentation
A home inspector with specialized training in roof assessments will know exactly where to look and how to identify subtle signs of damage that may be overlooked by an adjuster. This could include issues like small punctures, lifted shingles, or weakened structural components that may not be visible from the ground.
Advantage: An inspector's detailed report includes photographic documentation, thermal imaging, and even moisture readings, providing you with a well-supported claim if additional repairs are needed down the line.
3. Leverage High-Resolution Aerial Imaging with FAA Part 107 Certification
A home inspector with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 certification can
legally operate drones for commercial purposes. After a hurricane, it’s not always safe to climb onto a roof that may have hidden structural weaknesses or lingering debris. This is where drone technology comes in.
With an FAA-certified drone operator, you gain access to high-resolution aerial imaging that can capture the full extent of roof damage. Drones can also navigate hard-to-reach areas and provide a comprehensive view of your property from multiple angles. This level of detail often surpasses what a manual inspection can achieve, especially on large or complex roofs.
Advantage: High-resolution aerial images give you a clearer picture of the damage, which can expedite claim approval and ensure every inch of your roof is accounted for.
4. Avoid Potential Coverage Issues
By having an independent inspection done before the insurance adjuster’s visit, you create a documented record of the damage shortly after the hurricane. This can be invaluable if your insurance company tries to dispute when or how the damage occurred. Without this initial inspection, any delays in identifying issues could give the insurance company grounds to claim that the damage was a result of neglect or subsequent weather events, potentially limiting your coverage.
Advantage: You protect yourself from potential disputes and ensure a stronger, more accurate claim.
5. Faster Claim Resolution
Insurance companies are often overwhelmed with claims after a hurricane, which can cause delays in sending adjusters to your property. A roof inspection from a licensed inspector, complete with a detailed report and aerial images, can speed up the process when your adjuster arrives. With clear documentation in hand, adjusters are less likely to need follow-up visits or request additional proof, allowing your claim to move forward more quickly.
Advantage: A faster resolution means repairs can begin sooner, reducing the risk of further damage or complications, such as water intrusion.
6. Mitigate Safety Risks
After a hurricane, the safety of your roof is uncertain. Climbing onto a damaged roof without a full understanding of its condition is hazardous for both the adjuster and any other professionals assessing it. A licensed home inspector using drones and other technology can safely inspect your roof without putting anyone at risk.
Advantage: Ensures safety during the inspection process and reduces liability concerns.
Choosing the Right Inspector
Not all home inspectors are created equal. When hiring a professional for your post-hurricane roof inspection, look for these qualifications:
Licensure: Make sure the inspector is licensed and experienced in post-storm assessments.
Part 107 Certification: Confirm that they have the FAA Part 107 certification, which ensures they can legally and safely operate drones for commercial purposes.
Experience with Insurance Claims: Choose someone familiar with the insurance claims process and who knows how to document damage in a way that aligns with insurance standards.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
After a hurricane, time is of the essence. Scheduling a roof inspection from a licensed home inspector before the insurance adjuster arrives is not just about protecting your home; it’s about ensuring a fair and accurate assessment of the damage. An inspector with Part 107 certification takes it a step further, using cutting-edge drone technology to deliver the most comprehensive evaluation possible.
Don’t wait until you’re caught in a dispute over coverage or scrambling to provide more evidence—get ahead of the game with a professional, thorough roof inspection from a licensed inspector who’s on your side.
Ready to Schedule a Post-Hurricane Roof Inspection?
If you’re facing the aftermath of a hurricane, schedule your independent roof inspection today and secure the peace of mind you deserve.
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