Expert Roof Consulting & Insurance Claim Advocate for Colorado Springs Homeowners

I’ve Worked With Every Major Carrier—I Know Their Tactics, Their Adjusters, and Exactly How to Document Claims They Can’t Dismiss

The insurance claim landscape is changing in Colorado Springs. Companies are tightening restrictions on older roofs, lowballing legitimate damage, and denying claims that should be approved.

After working with State Farm, Allstate, USAA, Farmers, Nationwide, Progressive, and every other major carrier operating in Colorado Springs, I know exactly what each company looks for—and what they try to avoid paying.

I provide unbiased roof inspections and insurance claim advocacy to help Colorado Springs homeowners document damage properly, overcome carrier pushback, and avoid costly mistakes during the claim process.

Unlike contractors who only offer “free” inspections, I bring:

Experience with every major insurance carrier’s claim process
Knowledge of Pikes Peak Regional Building Department code requirements
Partnerships with the most trusted contractors in Colorado Springs

Older Roofs Are Being Targeted

Insurance companies are implementing 10-15 year old roof restrictions, offering only Actual Cash Value coverage for older roofs, or refusing to renew policies altogether. Some are threatening to leave Colorado entirely.

Claims Are Being Lowballed or Denied

Even with legitimate hail damage, adjusters are minimizing damage, using depreciation to reduce payouts, or denying claims by citing “wear and tear,” “cosmetic damage only,” or “damage outside the claim window.

Homeowners Are Making Costly Mistakes

Most people file claims without proper documentation, accept the first estimate without question, or rely on contractors whose interests don’t align with theirs—and they lose thousands as a result.

The Playing Field Isn’t Level

Insurance companies do this thousands of times per year with teams of adjusters. You’re doing it for the first time. Without expertise, you’re at a massive disadvantage.

STATE FARM

I know their adjuster protocols, common denial reasons (they love citing “cosmetic damage only”), and exactly how to document claims they can’t deny. When State Farm says “wear and tear,” I know how to prove otherwise.

ALLSTATE

Their adjusters aggressively minimize damage severity and use restrictive depreciation schedules. I document everything they’ll try to downgrade—and shut down their “pre-existing damage” excuses before they start.

I Know Your Insurance Company’s Playbook—Because I’ve Seen Every Move

Carrier-Specific Defense Strategies

Every insurance carrier uses different claim handling processes, adjuster training standards, and denial tactics. After over a decade protecting Colorado Springs homeowners, I know exactly how they’ll try to minimize your claim—and how to document damage they can’t dispute.

USAA

They’ve been hit with multiple class actions for using automated systems that lowball hail claims. They’re notorious for “stair-stepping”: giving bare-minimum estimates until you push back. I document everything upfront so there’s nothing to argue about.

FARMERS, NATIONWIDE, AMERICAN FAMILY

Each uses aggressive depreciation on older roofs and drags out supplement approvals. I document damage so comprehensively their typical delay tactics don’t work.

PROGRESSIVE, LIBERTY MUTUAL, TRAVELERS, LEMONADE

These carriers use third-party adjusting firms trained to minimize payouts. I know their playbook—and document claims they can’t lowball, no matter who shows up.

Why This Matters

When I inspect your roof, I’m not documenting damage for your insurance company—I’m documenting it FOR YOU, using methods that can’t be disputed.

This isn’t generic “take some photos and hope for the best.” This is strategic documentation based on years of experience with your specific carrier’s claim handling process.

Common carrier tactics I counter:

Attributing hail damage to “normal wear and tear”
Claiming damage occurred outside their coverage window
Minimizing the number of documented hits per test square
Using outdated depreciation schedules for older roofs
Denying claims for “cosmetic damage” that’s actually functional
Missing interior damage that supports exterior claims
Incorrectly applying policy exclusions
Lowballing material and labor costs
Refusing legitimate supplements for hidden damage

I’ve seen every trick, every loophole, every denial reason. And I know how to document claims that hold up under scrutiny.

Why Specialized Expertise Changes Everything

When you hire me, you’re not hiring someone with a financial stake in inflating damage or winning a repair contract.

You’re hiring someone who:

Has worked with every major insurance carrier operating in Colorado Springs
Knows carrier-specific claim handling processes, adjuster training, and common denial tactics
Understands Pikes Peak Regional Building Department code requirements
Documents claims to industry standards that insurance companies can’t dispute
Works with vetted contractor partners—I don’t repair roofs myself, sell materials, or work for insurance companies

What Makes This Different

Carrier-Specific Strategic Documentation

I don’t just document damage—I document it in ways that shut down the specific tactics YOUR insurance company uses. State Farm’s denial playbook is different than Allstate’s. USAA’s lowball strategies differ from Farmers’. I know them all—and how to counter each one.

Building Code Expertise

I document not just storm damage, but also the code-compliant replacement requirements so your settlement covers what you’ll actually need to pay. This prevents $3,000-$8,000+ surprises when contractors discover your insurance estimate doesn’t include required upgrades.

Insider Knowledge of Adjuster Tactics

After a decade of adjuster meetings across every major carrier, I know:

What each carrier’s adjusters are trained to minimize or dismiss
Which documentation they can’t argue with
How to document damage in ways they can’t dismiss or minimize
When to push back and when to escalate

Strategic Contractor Partnerships

Contractors offering “free” inspections want your repair job. That creates pressure to either inflate damage (which can backfire with insurance) or accept whatever insurance pays (even when it’s insufficient).

I don’t repair roofs—I document damage, advocate for your claim, and connect you with contractors I’ve vetted for quality and integrity. While I earn commissions from these partnerships, my assessment and claim guidance focus on maximizing your settlement.

Older Roof Expertise

If your roof is 15+ years old, you’re especially vulnerable to restrictions, depreciation, and denials. I help you understand your specific carrier’s age-related policies and document claims in ways that maximize whatever coverage you have.

Strategic Guidance Through the Process

From initial inspection through adjuster meetings, settlement evaluation, and potential escalation—I guide you through each decision point based on your specific carrier and situation so you don’t make mistakes that cost you thousands.

Pikes Peak Regional Building Department Code Compliance

Here’s something most homeowners—and even many contractors—don’t realize:

When your roof is replaced due to storm damage, it must meet current Pikes Peak Regional Building Department codes, not the codes from when your roof was originally installed.

This creates a critical issue that insurance companies often try to avoid paying for.

Why Building Code Knowledge Matters for Your Claim

Code Upgrade Requirements

If your roof is 15-20+ years old, current building codes have changed significantly since it was installed:

Updated wind uplift requirements for our region
Different fastening patterns and specifications
Enhanced ice and water shield requirements
New flashing and ventilation standards
Updated decking attachment requirements

The Insurance Company Problem

Your policy likely covers “like kind and quality” replacement—but insurance companies often try to limit this to your old roof’s specifications, not current code requirements.

That’s not legal in Colorado Springs.

What I Do

Code Compliance Documentation

When I inspect your roof, I also document what code upgrades will be required for legal replacement under current Pikes Peak Regional Building Department standards.

This documentation is critical because:

It prevents insurance companies from underestimating replacement costs
It ensures your claim includes necessary code-compliance items
It protects you from having to pay thousands out-of-pocket for required upgrades
It provides contractors with the backup they need when insurance questions upgrades

Common Code-Related Issues I Address

Wind uplift calculations for Colorado Springs wind zones
Required ice and water shield coverage for our climate
Proper flashing specifications per current code
Ventilation requirements that have changed since your roof was built
Decking fastening requirements for high-wind areas
Permit and inspection requirements for full replacements

The Cost Difference

Without proper code compliance documentation, homeowners often discover mid-project that:

Their insurance settlement doesn’t cover required code upgrades
They’re responsible for $3,000-$8,000+ in unexpected costs
Contractors can’t legally complete work without these upgrades
The original insurance estimate was incomplete

When I document your claim, building code compliance is built into the assessment—not discovered as a surprise later.

Should You Hire a Roof Consultant?

Insurance companies know an inexperienced salesman when they see one—and they take full advantage. A rookie contractor rep can make costly documentation mistakes that give adjusters easy reasons to deny or underpay your claim.

When you work with me, you’re getting your first line of defense before the insurance company even gets involved. I’ve vetted the contractors I work with because I know which teams have seasoned professionals who won’t make the mistakes that cost you thousands.

I Work With Homeowners Who:

Just experienced a hailstorm and want proper documentation before filing
Have older roofs and are concerned about insurance restrictions
Want an unbiased expert in additon to contractor “free inspections
Are serious about getting their claim documented correctly from the start
Had problems with past claims and don’t want to repeat mistakes
Don’t trust the process and want an advocate in their corner
Value experienced advocacy over free services with strings attached

I’m Not the Right Fit If:

You want someone to inflate damage that doesn’t exist
You’re just shopping for the lowest bid or quickest close
Your roof has obvious, severe damage and you just need a contractor
You want someone else to handle everything without your involvement

My clients are informed homeowners who understand the value of experienced consulting when tens of thousands of dollars are at stake. They trust that I’ve built relationships with the right contractors—not just any contractors—so they don’t have to gamble on who shows up at their door.

How We Work Together

1. Post-Storm Professional Inspection (No Cost to You)

Timing:

Immediately after a hail event, before you contact your insurance company

What You Get:

Comprehensive 21-point roof and property assessment
Professional photo documentation using industry standards YOUR carrier can’t dispute
Detailed written report with measurements, analysis, and code compliance documentation
Weather event correlation and verification
Carrier-specific guidance on what YOUR insurance company will try to minimize or exclude
Building code upgrade identification per Pikes Peak Regional Building Department requirements
Determination of whether filing a claim is strategically advisable
Realistic expectations based on your specific carrier’s track record

Why This Matters:

State Farm’s denial tactics differ from Allstate’s. USAA’s lowball strategies differ from Farmers’. I know YOUR carrier’s playbook—not generic advice.

How This Works:

Unlike contractors who offer “free” inspections to win repair bids, my inspection is genuinely no-cost because I’ve built partnerships with the contractors I trust. You get expert consulting without upfront fees, and I work with contractors who meet my standards for quality and integrity.

2. Pre-Claim Strategy Session (Included with Inspection)

Before You File:

Review of YOUR specific policy with your specific carrier
Carrier-specific guidance on their claim process and timeline
Discussion of how YOUR carrier handles depreciation, older roofs, and supplements
Identification of potential issues based on carrier-specific red flags
Strategic guidance on claim timing and approach for your carrier
Building code compliance discussion and cost implications
Preparation for what YOUR carrier’s adjusters specifically look for

Why This Matters:

I’ve worked with your insurance company before—many times. I know what they approve, what they deny, and how to document damage they can’t dismiss. This isn’t generic documentation; it’s strategically positioned to counter YOUR carrier’s specific tactics.

3. Adjuster Meeting Support (Included)

During Insurance Company Inspection:

I attend your adjuster meeting—and I likely know your adjuster or their training
Point out damage using documentation methods YOUR carrier can’t dismiss
Provide technical expertise and code compliance information adjusters must address
Challenge incomplete assessments using industry standards and code requirements
Counter common minimization tactics I’ve seen from your carrier
Create detailed record of what was observed and discussed
Ensure building code requirements are acknowledged

Why This Matters:

Your carrier’s adjuster works for them, not you. I’ve attended hundreds of adjuster meetings with YOUR specific insurance company. I know their adjusters’ names, their training, their evaluation methods, and their common tactics. Having someone who knows the game levels the playing field.

Real Talk:

I’ve been in meetings where I say “Hi [Adjuster Name], good to see you again” because I’ve worked with that specific adjuster multiple times. That changes the dynamic immediately.

4. Settlement Review & Carrier-Specific Analysis (Included)

After You Receive Estimate:

Review settlement offer against YOUR carrier’s typical payouts
Analyze whether estimate covers all documented damage PLUS code requirements
Identify missing line items based on what YOUR carrier typically tries to exclude
Explain your options specific to YOUR carrier’s escalation process
Guide you on next steps: accept, request supplement, or escalate

Why This Matters:

I know what State Farm typically tries to pay vs. what they should pay – same with Allstate.

5. Escalation Guidance & Referrals (As Needed)

If Your Claim Is Denied or Severely Undervalued:

Explain escalation options specific to YOUR carrier (some respond to appeals, others don’t)
Recommend public adjusters who have successful track records with YOUR carrier
Provide attorney referrals if bad faith is involved (carrier-specific)
Continue supporting you through the dispute process
Help you understand realistic outcomes based on YOUR carrier’s history

When Expert Consulting Is Essential

You Have One of the “Challenging” Carriers

If you’re with State Farm, Allstate, or other carriers known for aggressive claim handling, independent documentation from someone who knows their tactics is critical. I’ve successfully helped homeowners recover proper settlements from every carrier—even the tough ones.

Your Roof Is 15+ Years Old

Older roofs trigger automatic scrutiny from adjusters. I know:

Which carriers are most aggressive about age restrictions
How to document the difference between hail damage and aging
What code upgrades will be required and how to get them covered
How to navigate ACV vs. RCV coverage issues

You’re Facing Code Compliance Issues

If your roof is old enough that current building codes have changed significantly, you need someone who understands:

Pikes Peak Regional Building Department requirements
How to document code-mandated upgrades in your claim
What insurance companies legally must cover vs. what they try to exclude
How to prevent $3,000-$8,000+ surprise costs mid-project

You’ve Had Claim Problems Before With This Carrier

If your carrier has denied or undervalued previous claims, you need carrier-specific strategy:

I know what went wrong based on YOUR carrier’s typical tactics
I document differently this time to counter their previous denial reasons
I help you understand what’s realistic based on their track record

Real Building Code Issues I Help Homeowners Avoid

Scenario 1: The $6,000 Surprise

Homeowner’s 22-year-old roof needed replacement. Insurance approved claim for $18,000. Mid-project, contractor discovers current code requires enhanced ice and water shield coverage and updated decking fasteners—adding $6,000. Insurance refuses supplement, claiming “code upgrades aren’t covered.”

What I Do:

Document code-required upgrades during initial inspection. Include them in claim documentation so insurance can’t claim surprise later. Colorado law requires code-compliant replacement—insurance companies can’t avoid this, but they try.

Scenario 2: The Wind Uplift Problem

Insurance approved basic replacement but excluded proper wind uplift fastening required by Pikes Peak Regional Building Department for Colorado Springs wind zones. Contractor can’t legally install without proper fastening. Project delayed, homeowner stuck in middle.

What I Do:

Document wind zone requirements and proper fastening specifications in initial report. Insurance adjusters often don’t know local code requirements—I do, and I ensure claims include them.

Scenario 3: The Permit Surprise

Contractor begins work, then discovers city permit requires updated ventilation and flashing that wasn’t in insurance estimate. Project stops until supplement is approved—if insurance approves it at all.

What I Do:

Include permit-required items in initial documentation. Pikes Peak Regional Building Department won’t approve permits for non-compliant work. Insurance must cover code-compliant replacement.

Investment & Value

Professional Inspection & Consulting: No Cost to You

What’s Included:

Complete 21-point property assessment
Professional documentation package
Written report with photos and analysis
Pre-claim strategy session
Adjuster meeting support
Settlement review and guidance

Your Actual Costs:

My services cost you nothing out of pocket. Your only expense is your insurance deductible when repairs are completed. In Colorado, deductibles typically range from $500-$2,500 for fixed amounts, or 1-2% of your home’s insured value for percentage-based policies.

If you have an Actual Cash Value (ACV) policy or other specialized coverage, I’ll help you understand exactly what you’ll owe before any work begins—no surprises.

Why No Upfront Cost?

Unlike contractors who offer “free” inspections to win repair bids, I’ve built strategic partnerships with contractors I’ve carefully vetted for quality and integrity. This allows me to provide expert consulting at no cost to homeowners while maintaining my role as your advocate—not a salesperson.

You get professional expertise without the conflicts of interest that come with contractors who need to win your repair job.

The Value Difference

When Expert documentation Pays Off:

If my carrier-specific documentation helps you recover even $2,000-$5,000 more in your settlement than you would have received with a generic contractor inspection, you’ve gained thousands in value—while only paying your standard deductible.

More importantly, you avoid the $3,000-$8,000+ surprises that happen when inexperienced contractors miss code requirements or submit inadequate documentation.

What Sets This Apart:

Carrier-specific expertise – I know YOUR insurance company’s tactics
Building code knowledge – Documentation includes required upgrades upfront
Vetted contractor network – You work with professionals who know how to handle claims properly
No conflict of interest – My role is consulting and advocacy, not winning a repair bid
Transparent cost expectations – You’ll know your deductible and any policy-specific costs upfront

Why This Model Works Better

Contractors offering “free” inspections create inherent pressure to either:

Inflate damage to justify the project (which backfires with insurance)
Accept whatever insurance pays (even when it’s insufficient)

My partnerships with trusted contractors allow me to focus solely on getting your claim documented correctly and connecting you with professionals who will do the work right—without the sales pressure.

You pay only your deductible. I ensure you get the full settlement you deserve.

Why Colorado Springs Homeowners Trust Gerald Winik

Years of Carrier Experience

State Farm, Allstate, USAA, Farmers, Nationwide, Progressive, American Family, Liberty Mutual, Travelers, Auto-Owners, and dozens of regional carriers
Hundreds of adjuster meetings across all major carriers
Familiar with carrier-specific adjusters, protocols, and approval processes

Local Technical Knowledge

Thorough understanding of Pikes Peak Regional Building Department code requirements
Knowledge of Colorado Springs wind zones and climate-specific building standards
Experience with permit requirements and inspection processes
Relationships with local building officials when code questions arise

Colorado Springs Resident Since 2013

Lived through every major hailstorm that’s hit our area
Deep understanding of local insurance market changes
Established relationships with vetted contractors, public adjusters, and attorneys
Invested in this community—this is where I live and work

My Role & Relationships

What I Do: I serve as your advocate and consultant through the insurance claim process. I’ve built strategic partnerships with contractors I trust—professionals who meet my standards for quality, integrity, and proper claim handling.

What I’m Not:

I don’t work for insurance companies
I don’t sell roofing materials or products
I’m not employed by any contractor

My commitment: I recommend the contractors I believe are best for your specific project because my reputation depends on your successful outcome.

What Colorado Springs Homeowners Say

“Honestly, we are so happy to have worked with Gerald and Petrali roofing.”

— A G, Colorado Springs

“If you need a roof done you can’t go wrong here. Interactions with everyone in the field to speaking to the office was 5 stars.”

— L A, Monument

“Gerald was our roof consultant. Gerald was awesome communicating with us and was instrumental in helping us through the process.”

— S M, Broadmoor

“Gerald kept me in the loop from start to finish. The installation was completed in one day from setup to cleanup. Interactions with everyone—from field crew to office staff—were 5 stars.”

—L M, Colorado Springs

“The roof consultant, Mr. Gerald Wink, is a Rock Star. Mr. Wink’s professionalism, communications, expertise, and commitment to ensure that everything was done to the ultimate level of perfection were simply breathtaking. The knowledge he shared allowed me to make outstanding informative decisions; he even helped me obtain a top notch painter.”

—AW, Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Homeowner Resources

Essential guidance for navigating insurance claims in a changing landscape

“What to Do Immediately After a Colorado Springs Hailstorm (Before You Call Anyone)”

Your step-by-step action plan for documentation, timing, and avoiding common mistakes that cost homeowners thousands.

Read the complete guide

The 15-Year Roof Deadline: What Colorado Springs Homeowners Need to Know About Insurance Restrictions”

Insurance companies are targeting older roofs aggressively. Here’s what’s changing and how to protect yourself.

Learn about roof age restrictions

Professional Inspection vs. Contractor ‘Free’ Inspection: What’s the Real Difference?

Why conflicts of interest matter and what professional consulting provides that free contractor inspections can’t.

Understand the difference

How Insurance Adjusters Evaluate Hail Damage (And What They’re Looking For)

Inside look at adjuster methodologies, what triggers approvals vs. denials, and how to document damage properly.

See what adjusters really do

View All Homeowner Resources

Serving Colorado Springs & the Front Range

Property owners throughout the Pikes Peak region trust my roof consulting services:

Colorado Springs

Monument

Fountain

Manitou Springs

Security-Widefield

Falcon

Woodmoor

Black Forest

Briargate

Northgate

Located elsewhere on the Front Range? Contact me—I may be able to help or refer you to a trusted consultant in your area.

Don’t Navigate Insurance Claims Alone

Your insurance policy is a contract. You paid premiums for coverage. When legitimate damage occurs, you deserve a fair settlement.

Whether you just experienced a hailstorm, have an older roof, or simply want unbiased guidance—I’m here to level the playing field between you and your insurance company.

Schedule Independent inspection Call (719) 210-8699

No pressure. No contractor conflicts. Just honest expertise when you need it most.