Can You Choose Your Own Contractor for Insurance Work?
After a storm damages your roof, siding, or exterior, things move fast. You’re dealing with insurance adjusters, paperwork, and pressure to make decisions quickly — often while your home is exposed.
One of the most common questions homeowners ask during this process is:
“Do I have to use the contractor my insurance company recommends?”
The short answer is:
No — you usually have the right to choose your own contractor.
Understanding this can make a major difference in the quality of your repairs and the long-term protection of your home.
Your Rights as a Homeowner
In most cases, insurance policies allow homeowners to select the contractor of their choice for repairs. While insurance companies may suggest or recommend contractors, those recommendations are typically optional — not mandatory.
Insurance companies exist to pay valid claims, not to manage construction. The homeowner remains the decision-maker when it comes to who performs the work on their property.
Why Insurance Companies Recommend Contractors
Insurance-recommended contractors often come from preferred vendor programs. These contractors agree to:
Pre-set pricing
Faster turnaround expectations
Simplified paperwork for the insurer
While some preferred contractors do good work, the system is designed primarily for efficiency and cost control, not customization or long-term performance.
That doesn’t automatically mean the work will be poor — but it does mean the contractor may be working under tighter constraints.
The Risks of Letting the Insurance Company Choose
When homeowners don’t actively choose their contractor, they may face issues like:
Minimal scope of repairs
Missed or overlooked damage
Rushed installations
Limited material options
Lack of accountability after the job is complete
In some cases, the contractor’s priority is satisfying the insurance program — not necessarily protecting the homeowner’s long-term interests.
Why Choosing Your Own Contractor Can Be Better
When you select your own contractor, you gain more control over:
Installation quality
Attention to detail
Proper flashing and water management
Code compliance
Warranty coverage
Long-term durability
An independent contractor works for you, not the insurance company. Their responsibility is to restore your home correctly, even if that means advocating for supplements or additional documentation with the insurer.
Can Your Contractor Work With Your Insurance Company?
Yes — and they should.
A qualified exterior contractor experienced in insurance restoration will:
Meet with the adjuster if needed
Document damage thoroughly
Ensure the full scope of work is included
Submit supplements when necessary
Help prevent underpaid or incomplete repairs
The best contractors understand insurance processes while still prioritizing proper installation and homeowner protection.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious if:
You’re told you’re required to use a specific contractor
A contractor pressures you to sign immediately
Repairs are suggested without a full inspection
Important items (like flashing or underlayment) are skipped
Warranty details are unclear or missing
You should feel informed — not rushed or intimidated.
The Bottom Line
You pay for insurance to protect your home. When damage occurs, you deserve the right to choose who restores it.
While insurance companies can make recommendations, the decision ultimately belongs to the homeowner. Taking the time to select a qualified, experienced contractor can be the difference between a quick fix and a lasting solution.
When it comes to insurance restoration, remember:
You’re not just filing a claim — you’re protecting your home.
