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

roofers cut corners

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 Roofing. 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

This case came with a unique set of hurdles:

  • Negligence vs. Storm Damage: The insurance company viewed the rotted decking as pre-existing neglect, not storm-related damage.
  • Out-of-Pocket Costs: The homeowner couldn’t afford an extra $10,000.
  • Initial Claim Denial: The first offer didn’t account for the cost of decking replacement.

My Step-by-Step Approach

  • Thorough Inspection:
    I conducted a detailed roof assessment, capturing photo and video evidence to document every issue comprehensively.
  • Compelling Evidence Submission:
    A professional Xactimate report, paired with detailed images, was submitted to the insurance company, making a clear case for the damage.
  • Adjuster Advocacy:
    During the tear-off process, I contacted the insurance adjuster to inspect the rotted decking in person, ensuring nothing was overlooked.
  • Strategic Consultation and Execution:
    I guided the homeowner step-by-step, ensuring they understood their options. Once the adjuster documented the damage, we seamlessly moved forward with replacing the decking and restoring the roof.
  • Knowledge and Persistence:
    When the insurance company resisted covering the decking replacement, I armed the homeowner with the evidence and documentation needed to fight back.

The Solution

With persistence and detailed documentation, I turned the insurer’s “no” into a “yes,” securing an additional $10,000 to cover the decking replacement—a rare win in situations labeled as neglect.

The Outcome

  • Roof Fully Restored: The project was completed within two days, ensuring minimal disruption.
  • Claim Increased by $10,000: The homeowner received full coverage for decking and supplemental repairs.
  • Stress-Free Experience: By handling every detail, I alleviated the burden and restored peace of mind.

My Perspective

This wasn’t just about fixing a roof; it was about fighting for fairness and standing up for a homeowner caught in a system that often feels stacked against them. By combining expertise, persistence, and advocacy, I helped turn what could have been a costly disaster into a fully funded repair.

For me, it’s never just about shingles and nails—it’s about protecting the trust 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?

Don’t let unexpected repair costs or denied claims leave you feeling powerless. Book a Free Consultation today, and let me fight for the coverage and peace of mind you deserve.
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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Shocking Discovery: Colorado Homeowner’s Roof Hid a Costly Secret

What was supposed to be a routine inspection turned into a shocking discovery—and a $10,000 battle for justice. A roof rotted from negligence, an insurance company refusing to pay, and a homeowner caught in the middle. This is the story of how I fought to turn a ticking time bomb into a fully restored roof—and peace of mind for one Colorado Springs family.

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