To survive as a roofing contractor and run a successful business, you have to take on insurance claim jobs. In fact, for many roofers, it’s the bulk of the work they do. Dealing with denied or underpaid insurance claims can be extremely difficult, especially if you do the work and can’t get paid.
It isn’t fair, but sometimes the recoverable depreciation check that was sent directly to your client gets spent on anything other than you – even though you did your part, installed the roof right, and on time!
Here at The Lane Law Firm, we value our partnerships with roofing contractors and want to do everything we can to help you get paid. Read on to learn how to make sure you can get your recoverable depreciation roof check from your client.
3 Ways to Avoid Being Stiffed & Get Your Recoverable Depreciation for Roofing
Consider these helpful tips when taking on a roofing insurance client:
1. Provide a Quote Upfront
Transparency in pricing is key to a successful roofing project. By providing a comprehensive quote upfront, you not only establish trust but also showcase your professionalism.
Additionally, having the homeowner sign an agreement to pay the agreed-upon amount, regardless of the insurance payout, ensures both parties are on the same page and prevents any misunderstandings down the road. This commitment to clarity and accountability sets the stage for a smoother and more satisfying roofing experience for both you and the homeowner.
2. Build Rapport
Building trust and establishing a strong rapport with homeowners is paramount in the roofing business. Take the time to address their concerns, provide clear explanations, and ensure they feel heard throughout every stage of the project – from the initial consultation to the final inspection.
Remember, a satisfied homeowner not only secures your immediate job, but can also become a valuable source of referrals and testimonials for your roofing business.
3. Continually Communicate
Maintaining open and regular communication with homeowners is the cornerstone of a successful roofing job. It not only showcases your dedication to their satisfaction but also provides a platform to address any potential concerns promptly.
Additionally, it's important to remember that while you may be well-versed in insurance claims, homeowners might not be. So, take the time to patiently and thoroughly explain the payment process to ensure they are comfortable and informed throughout the entire project. This proactive approach will not only enhance your professional reputation but also foster positive long-term relationships with clients.
Dealing with Challenges in Improving Your Collection Rate
Employing these tips can improve your collection rate, but they aren’t foolproof. There are always other factors. A homeowner might get some bad information from others as to how recoverable depreciation works. Or they might think you don’t deserve the entire amount the insurance company has approved. They also could’ve talked with a desperate or fly-by-night roofer who will (illegally) kick back their deductible to them and wonder why you won’t do the same.
Of course, accidents that put a bad taste in a homeowners’ mouths can happen as well. Maybe, despite your best efforts, their prized rose bush was cut in half by a runaway sheet of plywood flying off the house. Or the recoverable depreciation check came, and somehow, they thought the insurance company sent them extra money, so they used your money to get that new smart TV they’ve always wanted. Despite your best communication efforts, and regardless of reason, you’ve been stiffed, again!
Here's How to Collect Your Roof Recoverable Depreciation:
If you’ve done all that you can and still can’t get your money, more drastic measures may have to be taken. It all starts with having the right contract that ensures you can collect.
You may not want to send a demand letter or file a lawsuit against your customer, but let’s be honest – you know what the homeowner would do if you took all the money and put on half a roof. They wouldn’t hesitate to pursue you!
It takes some time and persistence, but the good news is that with a little insight and knowledge, you can collect your roof recoverable depreciation from your client without having to hire an attorney if you don’t want to. Don’t give up, after all – it’s your money!
Tired of denied roofing insurance claims cutting into your profits?
How much more money could your roofing company be making if you no longer had to deal with denied roofing insurance claims? Find out with our “How Much Should You Be Making?” calculator. Add in your numbers, and our calculator will tell you how much our firm can help you recover every year.
The Lane Law Firm Is Here to Help
To help roofing contractors avoid this problem, we're giving away our "10 Steps to Guarantee Collection of Recoverable Depreciation," and we want to share it with you without cost or obligation. You’ll find out exactly what you need to do to collect every penny you’ve earned, every time – without hiring an attorney!
Simply click the button below to download our guide and set your roofing business up for success.
