Services Tailored for DIY Enthusiasts

While you might not need a general contractor, these Roof Watchdog services are perfect for homeowners managing their own projects:

1. Roof Measurement & Material List ($150):
   Receive precise roof dimensions and a detailed material list to ensure accurate orders and cost estimates.

2. Contractor Estimate Review & Report ($50 per review):
   Protect yourself from overpriced or incomplete bids by having our experts review contractor estimates for fairness and accuracy.

3. Insurance Claim Review ($200):
   Maximize your insurance payout with our expert analysis of your claim, identifying missing or undervalued items.

4. Supplement Acquisition Services (10% of RCV Increase):
   If additional damage is uncovered, we’ll help you request supplements from your insurer for added funds.

5. Xactimate Estimate Creation ($200):
   Obtain a professional, industry-standard estimate that ensures transparency and fair pricing when working with contractors or insurance companies.

6. Material Delivery Coordination ($250):
   Save time by letting us handle material orders, delivery scheduling, and verifying the order manifest.

7. Post-Project Quality Assessment ($250):
   Ensure your project meets industry standards with a detailed inspection of the finished roof.

8. Reolink 4G Security Camera Rental Package ($300+):
   Keep an eye on your project with a high-quality camera rental, allowing you to monitor progress remotely.

Available eBooks ....

1. "The DIY Homeowner’s Guide to Roof Replacement":
   A detailed eBook covering every aspect of managing a roofing project, from evaluating estimates to final inspections.

2. "Choosing the Right Materials for Your Roof":
   An in-depth look at roofing materials, their costs, durability, and suitability for different climates.

3. "Managing Roofing Contractors Like a Pro":
   Tips for vetting, hiring, and communicating with contractors to get the results you want.

4. "Insurance Claims Demystified":
   A homeowner’s guide to navigating the insurance process, including how to secure supplements and handle disputes.

5. "Roof Maintenance Made Easy":
   Learn how to protect your investment with seasonal maintenance tips, inspections, and small repairs.

Potential Risks of Acting as Your Own General Contractor on a Roofing Insurance Claim

Understanding "Cost Incurred" vs. "Fair Market Value" Payouts

When dealing with an insurance claim for a roofing project, it’s essential to understand how insurance companies determine payouts. The distinction between "cost incurred" and "fair market value" can significantly impact how much money you receive—and if you’re acting as your own general contractor, it’s likely that insurers will lean toward reimbursing based on "cost incurred." Here’s why:

What is "Fair Market Value"?

• Definition:
  Fair market value is the amount a professional contractor would charge to complete your roofing project. It accounts for the labor, materials, and overhead needed to execute the job, as well as the profit margin a contractor is entitled to. In insurance claims, fair market value assumes that a professional is managing the project, and the payout reflects this level of expertise and associated costs.

• Why It Matters:
  If your claim is paid based on fair market value, you receive funding not only for the direct costs of materials and labor but also for the overhead and profit (O&P) that a contractor would include. This approach ensures that your claim covers the full scope of the project, including management and administrative expenses.

What is "Cost Incurred"?

• Definition:
  Cost incurred refers to the actual expenses you, as the homeowner, pay out of pocket for materials and labor. Insurers often require proof of these costs through receipts, invoices, and detailed documentation. If you act as your own general contractor, insurers are more likely to shift to this reimbursement method.

• Why It’s a Challenge:
  Under a cost-incurred payout model, you are reimbursed only for documented expenses. This excludes any allowance for your time, effort, or the management costs typically included in a contractor’s fee. Furthermore, insurance companies may scrutinize your claim more closely, denying payments for items they deem unnecessary or inflated.

Why Acting as Your Own General Contractor Leads to Cost Incurred Payouts

1. No Professional Overhead or Profit:
   Insurance companies justify fair market value payments by recognizing the professional contractor’s role in managing the project. When you act as your own general contractor, they may argue that there is no overhead or profit to reimburse because you are not a licensed professional. This often results in a lower payout based solely on direct expenses.

2. Increased Documentation Requirements:
   As your own general contractor, you must provide detailed receipts, invoices, and proof of payment for every expense. Without professional estimates or documentation, insurers may refuse to reimburse certain costs, leaving you with out-of-pocket expenses.

3. Higher Likelihood of Underpayment:
   Without a contractor’s expertise in negotiating with insurers or documenting supplemental needs, you risk being undercompensated. For example, costs for code upgrades, additional labor, or unforeseen repairs might not be covered if you fail to document them adequately.

The Financial Impact of Cost Incurred Payouts

• Lower Reimbursements:
  Cost incurred payouts exclude any compensation for the time and effort you invest in managing the project. Additionally, insurers may undervalue materials or labor costs if you cannot provide competitive market-based invoices.

• Out-of-Pocket Expenses:
  Acting as your own general contractor often results in unexpected expenses. Without O&P to cushion your budget, you may find yourself covering project management costs, material shortages, or delays on your own.

• Lost Negotiation Power:
  Contractors typically advocate on behalf of the homeowner to ensure insurance companies pay fair market value. Without professional representation, you lose this leverage, making it harder to secure a payout that truly covers the full cost of your roofing project.

Why You Need O&P for Full Compensation

Overhead and profit (O&P) is essential for projects involving multiple trades, such as roofing, siding, and interior work. These costs cover the management, coordination, and administrative work required to complete a complex project. Without a contractor, insurers often refuse to pay O&P, leaving you with an incomplete reimbursement.

By relying on professional services, like those offered by Roof Watchdog, you can document the full value of your project, ensure O&P is included in your claim, and avoid the pitfalls of cost-incurred payouts. Acting as your own general contractor may seem cost-effective, but it often leads to reduced compensation and increased financial risk.