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Writer's pictureTony Biggar

Still Climbing Roofs to Inspect Damage Claims?

Updated: Oct 6


As an insurance adjuster in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, or the surrounding upper Midwest region, you're no stranger to the severe weather that can wreak havoc on residential and commercial roofs. From powerful thunderstorms to devastating hailstorms, the spring and summer months often bring a surge in roof damage claims. But are you still risking your safety by climbing roofs to assess the damage?


The Changing Landscape of Roof Inspections

Gone are the days when climbing a ladder and walking across a potentially damaged roof was the only way to conduct a thorough inspection. With the advent of drone technology, insurance adjusters now have a safer, more efficient option at their disposal.



sioux falls insurance adjuster


"As common as they are in the workplace, ladders should not be overlooked as an everyday job site hazard. In fact, falls from portable ladders are among the leading causes of occupational injuries and fatalities, according to OSHA."

The Risks of Traditional Roof Inspections

Traditional roof inspections come with inherent risks:

- Personal injury from falls or unstable roofing materials

- Potential for further damage to an already compromised roof

- Time-consuming process, especially for large or complex structures


According to the CDC, ladders account for nearly 20% of fall injuries in the workplace, which makes them one of the most dangerous items in your organization."


insurance adjuster roof fall risk


The Drone Advantage

Drone roof inspections offer numerous benefits:

- Safety: No need to physically climb the roof

- Efficiency: Cover large areas quickly and thoroughly

- Accuracy: High-resolution imagery for detailed assessments

- Documentation: Comprehensive visual records for claims processing


Weather Patterns in the Upper Midwest

Understanding the typical weather patterns in Sioux Falls and the surrounding states is crucial for anticipating potential roof damage claims.





Spring Storms

Spring in the upper Midwest often brings:

- Severe thunderstorms with high winds

- Hailstorms of varying intensities

- Tornadic activity in some areas


Summer Weather Events

Summer weather can include:

- Continued thunderstorm activity

- Occasional derechos (widespread, long-lived wind storms)

- Intense heat that can exacerbate existing roof damage





"The upper Midwest experiences some of the most diverse and severe weather patterns in the country, making regular roof inspections crucial for property owners." - National Weather Service

Common Types of Roof Damage in the Region

Insurance adjusters should be familiar with the following types of storm-related roof damage:

1. Hail damage

2. Wind damage

3. Water damage

4. Heat-related damage


Hail Damage

Hailstorms can cause:

- Dents or cracks in shingles

- Granule loss on asphalt shingles

- Punctures in metal roofing


Wind Damage

High winds may result in:

- Lifted or missing shingles

- Damaged flashing

- Debris impact damage


Water Damage

Severe storms can lead to:

- Leaks and interior water damage

- Weakened roof structure

- Mold growth if left unaddressed


Heat-Related Damage

Intense summer heat can cause:

- Accelerated aging of roofing materials

- Warping or buckling of shingles

- Expansion and contraction leading to cracks


The Role of Drones in Accurate Damage Assessment

Drone technology has revolutionized the roof inspection process for insurance adjusters. Here's how:


1. Comprehensive Coverage: Drones can capture every angle of a roof, including hard-to-reach areas.

2. High-Resolution Imagery: Detailed photos and videos allow for precise damage identification.

3. Thermal Imaging: Some drones are equipped with thermal cameras to detect hidden moisture issues.

4. Quick Turnaround: Drone inspections can be completed in a fraction of the time of traditional methods.


Dealing with Fraudulent Claims

As an insurance adjuster, you must also be vigilant about potential fraudulent claims. Drone inspections can help in this regard by:


- Providing an unbiased, third-party assessment

- Creating a detailed visual record of the roof's condition

- Allowing for easy comparison with previous inspections or claims



insurance claim for storm damage


Legal and Regulatory Considerations

When using drone services for roof inspections, it's important to be aware of:


- FAA regulations for commercial drone operations

- Privacy laws regarding aerial photography

- Insurance requirements for drone operators


"Drone operators must comply with all FAA regulations and local laws to ensure legal and safe operations during roof inspections." - Federal Aviation Administration

Choosing the Right Drone Inspection Service

When selecting a drone inspection service for your insurance company, consider:


1. FAA certification and compliance

2. Insurance coverage

3. Experience in roof inspections

4. Quality of equipment and imaging

5. Turnaround time for reports

6. Data security measures


The Future of Roof Inspections

As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see:


- Improved AI for automatic damage detection

- Integration with claims processing software

- Enhanced 3D modeling capabilities


drone roof inspection


Embracing drone technology for roof inspections can significantly improve the efficiency, accuracy, and safety of your claims assessment process. By partnering with a professional drone inspection service, you can streamline your operations, reduce risks, and provide better service to your clients.


Are you ready to take your roof inspections to new heights? Consider making the switch to drone-based inspections and experience the difference for yourself.




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