Attempting to Maximize Your Insurance Payout?
Can You Handle Your Own Home Insurance Repairs and Keep the Savings?
If you’ve recently received a homeowners insurance payout after a loss—like a storm damaging your roof or a fire hitting your commercial property—you might be wondering: Can I do the repairs myself and pocket the difference? It’s a question we hear often at Peril Adjusters, and while the idea of saving money sounds appealing, the answer isn’t as simple as it seems. Here’s what you need to know before grabbing that hammer.
DIY Repairs: What to Consider
Before You Pick Up That Hammer
Taking on home insurance repairs yourself can be tempting, especially when there’s a chance to save money. However, it’s crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits. Consider the complexity of the repairs, your skill level, and the potential for hidden damages that could escalate costs. Additionally, if you have a mortgage, your lender might require professional repairs to protect their investment. Understanding your insurance policy and the implications of DIY work is essential to avoid future complications.
At Peril Adjusters, we recommend consulting with our experts before making a decision. Our team can help you understand your policy, evaluate the true cost of repairs, and ensure you’re making an informed choice that won’t compromise your property’s value or your peace of mind.
DIY vs. Professional Repairs: Pros and Cons
Benefit: Cost Savings
In most cases, your insurance company doesn’t dictate who does the repairs—whether it’s you, a contractor, or a friend with a toolbox. Once they issue a check based on their estimate to restore your property to its pre-loss condition (often replacement cost or actual cash value, depending on your policy), that money is typically yours to use. If you own your home outright, you might have the freedom to tackle the work yourself and keep any leftover funds. For example, if your insurer pays $15,000 to replace a damaged roof, but you manage it for $10,000, that $5,000 could stay in your pocket—assuming the job meets safety and quality standards.
Drawback: Potential for Incomplete Repairs
This is where expertise matters. At Peril Adjusters, we’ve seen homeowners take on repairs only to realize they undervalued the claim from the start—leaving them short on funds and stuck with half-finished work. Our licensed public adjusters step in to ensure your claim reflects the true cost of restoration, not just the insurer’s first offer. We fight for every dollar you’re owed, so whether you hire a contractor or roll up your sleeves, you’re not left scrambling.
Drawback: Unforeseen Pitfalls
It’s not always that straightforward. If you have a mortgage, your lender is likely named on the check and may require proof that repairs are completed by a licensed pro to protect their investment. Skimp on the work or skip it entirely, and you could face issues down the road—like a denied future claim if the original damage worsens due to a shoddy DIY fix. Plus, underestimating the scope of repairs is common. What looks like a quick weekend project could spiral into a costly mess if hidden damage (think mold or structural issues) emerges later.
Thinking DIY might be your route? It’s your call—but talk to us first. A quick consultation can clarify your policy, protect your payout, and save you headaches. After all, the goal isn’t just to cash a check; it’s to get your property—and your peace of mind—back to where it belongs.
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What Our Clients Say
“Taking on the repairs myself seemed like a good idea, but I quickly realized I was in over my head. Peril Adjusters helped me get the full value of my claim, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.”
John D.
“I thought I could save money by doing the repairs on my own, but the hidden damage was more than I anticipated. Thankfully, Peril Adjusters stepped in and ensured I received the compensation I deserved.”
Sarah L.
“After a storm damaged my roof, I attempted a DIY fix. It wasn’t until I consulted with Peril Adjusters that I realized I was entitled to more than the initial offer. Their expertise made all the difference.”
Michael R.
At Peril Adjusters, we take our commitment to excellence seriously by holding ourselves accountable to the high standards set by our license and the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA). This means adhering to a strict code of ethics, ensuring transparency in every claim we handle, and staying current with industry best practices through ongoing training. Our dedication to NAPIA’s guidelines guarantees that we act solely in your best interest, delivering expert, unbiased advocacy to secure the settlements you deserve. It’s not just a license—it’s our promise to uphold integrity and professionalism in every step of the process.