AboutJames R Carrier Expertise I'm an insurance adjuster, I'm able to answer questions regarding coverage, damage valuation, or anything to do with property & casualty in the State of Michigan. In other states I can answer general questions but insurance policies are written slightly different depending on insurance law in a particular state. Most questions however I would be able to answer or have the ability to get an answer.
Experience 20 years as a licsensed adjuster, handling 1000's of homeowners claims in Michigan, and Louisiana (Hurricane Katrina).
Education/Credentials Business degree with an emphasis on accounting from Arizona State University, graduating in the Fall of 1984.
Question I recently put a claim into my insurance for damage to my house. Two trees fell ,one on my house and one in the back yard during a storm. my insurance paid to have the trees removed and to have a row of shingles replaced. I had my contractor come and give me an estimate. He found that there were several loose shingles on other parts of the roof that he attributed to the winds that came through and downed two trees. I told the ins. co. and they sent another adjuster out. He said they were not loose because of the wind but because of 'popped nails" and that it was not covered. He also said that I have a 25 year roof and it will last for a long time. I am not sure what a "popped nail" is but could the fact that a tree fell on my house loosen a nail? How can he be so sure that wind strong enough to knock over two trees, couldn't in fact loosen the shingles? Even if my roof were brand new if it is damaged it needs to be fixed. Any help or insight you could share with me would be appreciated.
Answer Bon,
It is impossible to tell which is the truth. Unfortunately the insurance company is going to take a position that is least expensive, and you as the homeowner want them to pay for what is rightfully yours. We will never know but the cost of a few shingles is not significant, I think your contractor for the consideration of giving him the work in these difficult times wouldn't have a problem throwing in some shingles.
