Shocking Discovery: Colorado Homeowner’s Roof Hid a Costly Secret

Master the art of Hail Claim Navigation in Colorado Springs with ease.

From stress to success: See how I guided one of the hundreds of Colorado homeowners in 2023 through their hail claim, securing the funding to restore their property.

The Scene


A Storm, a Door Knock, and a Shocking Discovery

In the aftermath of a devastating hailstorm in 2018, Mr. Marfisi sought my help as a roofing consultant. At the time, I worked for a company that lacked the rigorous job oversight I now ensure with Petrali. Fast forward to August 2023: another massive storm wreaked havoc on his neighborhood in Colorado Springs. Remembering his previous experience, I knocked on his door to offer a free inspection. What I found wasn’t just storm damage—it was a ticking time bomb. Beneath the shingles, his roof revealed an alarming truth: not just soft spots, but completely rotted decking. And worse, it wasn’t the storm that caused it. It was the negligence of the company I had once represented, failing to do a proper tear-off during their 2021 installation.

The Challenge

  • Roof damage from negligent roofing company
  • Customer didn’t expect to come out of pocket an extra $10k
  • Initial claim offer didn’t cover repair costs.
  • Insurance companies call this neglect since it is not storm related and is typically not covered

My Step-by-Step Approach

  1. Thorough Inspection: Conducted a meticulous roof assessment, capturing comprehensive photo and video evidence of the damage to ensure nothing was overlooked.
  2. Compelling Evidence Submission: Compiled a detailed photo packet and Xactimate report, presenting a clear and professional case to the insurance company.
  3. Advocacy for Accurate Damage Assessment: Partnered with the homeowner to ensure their claim fully accounted for all damages. During the tear-off process, we proactively contacted the assigned adjuster, insisting that they inspect and document the roof’s condition before proceeding further.
  4. Strategic Consultation and Execution: Provided clear, actionable advice, empowering the homeowner to make informed decisions. Once the adjuster inspected and documented the damage, we moved forward seamlessly—beginning with the crucial step of replacing the deteriorated decking before completing the project.
  5. Knowledge and Documentation for a Strong Case: When the insurance company initially resisted covering the cost of replacing the rotted decking, I armed the homeowner with the knowledge and supporting documents needed to challenge the decision. This ensured they received the full coverage they were entitled to.

The Solution

  • Submitted comprehensive evidence that met the insurer’s requirements.
  • Worked directly with the homeowner to clarify requests and supplement documentation.
  • Resulted in the insurance company approving an additional $10,000 for full deck replacement which is very rare.

The Outcome

  • Roof fully restored within two days.
  • Insurance claim increased by $10,000 for decking and other supplements.
  • A mostly stress-free experience for the homeowner, securing the supplements required persistence and determination.

My Perspective

This project wasn’t just about fixing a roof—it was about standing up for the homeowner in a situation where they felt powerless. Insurance claims can be daunting, especially when faced with unexpected costs labeled as “neglect.” I take pride in advocating for my clients, ensuring they aren’t left to shoulder burdens that should be covered.

In this case, persistence and expertise made all the difference. By meticulously documenting every detail and pushing for what was fair, I turned what could have been a $10,000 setback into a fully funded repair. Helping homeowners navigate these challenges and secure the outcomes they deserve is why I do what I do. For me, it’s about more than just roofing—it’s about protecting the peace of mind and security that every homeowner deserves.

If you’re facing unexpected repair costs, battling with insurance, or just need someone to handle the details while you focus on what matters, I’m here to make it easier. Contact me.

“He spotted rotted decking caused by shortcuts from a previous install and warned me insurance might not cover it. But Gerald didn’t back down—he fought hard and saved me a ton of money. If you want someone who’s honest and relentless, Gerald’s your guy.”

Timmothy Marfisi,
Colorado Springs



Facing a similar challenge?

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Gerald Winik
I've been knocking on doors and climbing ladders as a roofer in Colorado Springs since 2012. While heights may not be my favorite, my passion for helping people keeps me climbing. When I'm not consulting, you can usually find me far away from roofs on a tropic island.

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Master the art of Hail Claim Navigation in Colorado Springs with ease.

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