Common Questions
Straight answers to the questions we hear most.
Insurance claims, roof inspections, and storm damage — covered below. If your question isn't here, call us.
The Inspection
Is the inspection really free?
Yes — no cost, no obligation. We inspect the roof, document what we find, and give you a straight answer. If there's nothing worth a claim or a repair, we'll tell you that too.
Do I need to be home for the inspection?
Yes. We need access to the roof and possbibly the attic in order to get a look at both sides of your roof, once we can complete the inspection, we'll share the report and walk you through it after.
How long does an inspection take?
Most residential inspections take 30 minutes to an hour. Larger homes or complex roof systems may take longer. We don't rush — a thorough inspection now saves problems later.
My roof looks fine from the ground. Why would I need an inspection?
Hail damage and wind damage are often invisible from the ground. Granule loss, cracked tabs, and lifted flashing all look normal from a driveway. By the time damage is visible inside your home, the claim window may have already closed.
Insurance Claims
Will filing a claim raise my insurance rates?
That depends on your policy, your insurer, and your claim history — it's a question for your insurance agent. What we can tell you is that legitimate storm damage is what insurance is for. We encourage you to talk to your agent before filing if you're unsure.
How long after a storm do I have to file a claim?
Most policies require claims to be filed within one year of the storm date, but some allow less. Check your policy or call your agent as soon as possible after a storm — the documentation window is easier to meet when you act early.
What if my claim gets denied?
Denials can be appealed. If we believe the damage is legitimate and the denial is incorrect, we can help document the case for a re-inspection or supplement. We also work alongside public adjusters when a claim needs that level of advocacy.
What does storm damage actually cover?
Coverage varies by policy, but most homeowner policies cover wind and hail damage to the roof. Age-related wear, poor maintenance, and pre-existing conditions are typically excluded. Our inspection documents what's storm-related versus what's age-related so adjusters have a clear picture.
Do you work with all insurance companies?
We work with all major carriers and have experience across a wide range of policy types. We don't have preferred relationships with any insurer — our job is to represent the condition of your roof accurately, not to favor any outcome.
The Repair Process
How long does a roof replacement take?
Most residential replacements are completed in one to two days once materials are on site. Larger roofs, complex systems, or weather delays can extend that. We give you a realistic timeline before work begins.
What happens if more damage is found during the repair?
If we find additional damage during the repair that wasn't in the original scope, we stop, document it, and contact you before proceeding. Supplement claims for discovered damage are common and a normal part of the process.
Do you handle the insurance paperwork?
We work alongside your claim and can provide documentation, measurements, and scope of work that aligns with what your adjuster needs. We don't act as your public adjuster, but we communicate clearly with all parties involved.
Cost & Pricing
How much does a roof replacement cost in North Carolina?
For a typical 1,500–2,500 sq ft home with architectural shingles, out-of-pocket cost ranges from $9,000–$18,000. On a covered insurance claim, you usually pay only your deductible. Factors like roof size, pitch, material choice, and coastal code requirements affect the final number. We publish a full breakdown at /roof-replacement-cost-nc.
If insurance covers it, do I pay anything?
On a covered claim, you pay your deductible — typically $1,000–$2,500 for most NC policies. Insurance covers the rest up to the replacement cost value. Some policies have a separate named-storm or wind/hail deductible that can be higher. We walk through your specific policy at the inspection.
Why do roofing quotes vary so much?
Quotes differ because of what's included. A low quote may omit decking inspection, code-required upgrades, proper underlayment, or manufacturer-required fastener counts. We itemize every line so you know exactly what you're getting — and what a cheaper quote may be skipping.
Do you offer financing?
Yes — we offer financing options that can cover the full project cost, including your insurance deductible. See our financing page for details.
Is a FORTIFIED upgrade worth the added cost?
For most coastal NC homeowners, yes. FORTIFIED installation typically adds $500–$2,000 to the project but can reduce your homeowner insurance premium 20–40% annually. The payback period is usually 2–4 years. NC also offers grant funding that can offset the upgrade cost entirely.
Materials & Warranties
What roofing materials do you recommend for coastal NC?
For most homeowners, architectural (laminated) shingles are the practical choice — they balance cost, wind resistance, and availability. For higher durability or insurance discounts, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are worth the upgrade. Metal roofing offers the best long-term coastal performance but at a higher upfront cost. We cover all options in detail at /roofing-materials-coastal-nc.
How long will my new roof last?
On the NC coast, architectural shingles typically last 18–22 years, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles 20–25 years, and metal roofing 40–50 years. Coastal salt air, UV exposure, and hurricane-force winds shorten lifespans compared to inland areas. Proper installation and annual inspections extend life significantly.
What warranty comes with a new roof from Caliber?
Caliber Roofing provides a 5-year workmanship warranty on roof installation labor. The shingles Caliber Roofing installs carry a manufacturer’s limited lifetime material warranty. Coverage, exclusions, registration, and transfer terms depend on the selected product and its written manufacturer warranty. Caliber Roofing helps register the manufacturer warranty and provides project and warranty paperwork at completion.
What is a FORTIFIED roof and do I need one?
FORTIFIED is an IBHS certification program that requires a sealed roof deck, ring-shank nails, continuous drip edge, and third-party inspection. It's not required, but coastal NC homeowners often see significant insurance discounts — and it substantially improves storm performance. Learn more at /fortified-roof.
Still have questions?