Attention Homeowners: It's Time for a New Roof - Now What?

The spring storm season is right around the corner in Texas.  For homeowners in McKinney, Allen, Frisco and the surrounding communities, replacing your roof may be a necessity due to storm damage or recommended as part of renovations to your home.  The good news is that a new roof may qualify you to receive a new roof discount from your insurance company.  Here are some points to consider when deciding on a roof replacement:

1.      Do I need a new roof? 

There are multiple factors to consider when deciding on a new roof replacement.  Some factors include the age and condition of the roof, whether the new roof is taking care of existing wind/hail damage or is deterring the possibility of damage from future wind/hail storms. 

2.      How Do I Find a Reputable Contractor?

Hiring a reliable, reputable contractor can seem like a daunting task.   There are many sources of information you can leverage in your search.  Check online sites like Angie’s List, Yellow/White Pages and the Better Business Bureau.  You can also check with your local Chamber of Commerce to identify local contractors in your area.  Finally, personal referrals are a great way to get first hand feedback on contractors before you make your hiring decision.

 

3.      What Roofing Materials Should I Choose?

In McKinney, Frisco, Allen and the surrounding areas, composition asphalt shingles are used on the majority of homes.  This is primarily due to the cost effectiveness of this particular style of shingle.  You can also choose other types of roofing materials, such as metal, clay tile, wood shake and slate roofing.  These types of materials are more expensive than composition asphalt, in most cases, but they offer more durability and resistance to hail damage. 

4.      How Long Will the Work Take?

The length of the job depends on the size of your roof, the availability of materials, the weather conditions and the size of the crew performing the work.  Generally speaking, professional installation by a roofing contractor can run as little a couple of days.  This includes the preparation time of ordering the materials, removing the old roofing material, installing flashing and water-barring materials, making any necessary repairs to the roof decking and installing the new roofing material. 

If you have additional questions regarding roofing, new roof discounts and how it may impact your home insurance premium, please stop by my offices in McKinney,Texas or give me a call at (972) 727-9111. 

Stan Polk, CPCU

6951 Virginia Parkway, Ste. 316

McKinney, Texas 75071

Do You Have Enough Coverage on Your Home?

Reconstruction Cost And Your Coverage A (Dwelling) Amount

Do you know how much your home insurance policy will pay in the event your home is totally destroyed by a covered cause of loss?  Reconstruction cost is the amount it would cost to rebuild your home if it were destroyed.  It includes costs like materials, labor and municipal fees.  It does not include the cost or value of land.  That amount is used to set your Coverage A (Dwelling) limit, which is most your policy will pay to rebuild your home if it were destroyed by a covered cause of loss.

It's important to understand that reconstruction cost is not related to market values of homes.

Market value is the price a a buyer would pay to purchase the home, including the land and property, in its current condition.  It takes into account changes in the housing market and economy.  It does not take into account the cost to rebuild the home.

Ultimately, it is the consumer's responsibility to make sure they have purchased the sufficient amount of insurance coverage to rebuild their home and replace their personal property.  I am happy to assist in educating on the process of deciding how much coverage is right for you!

Please give my team a call to help you with your insurance needs today!

Stan Polk, CPCU
(972) 727-9111
www.farmersagent.com/spolk