🏠 Retail vs Insurance for home repair in Illinois. A Simple Guide for Homeowners in Chicago and Surrounding Areas.

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When your home suffers damage from storms, hail, wind, or other common events in Illinois—especially in the Chicago area—you’ll face a key decision:

Retail vs insurance for home repair in Illinois: Which is best for me?

This simple guide will help you understand the differences, pros, and cons of each path, using local examples and helpful links so you can make the best decision for your home.

🔎 What Does the Chicago Building Code Say?

In Chicago, any exterior repairs—especially roofing, siding, gutters, and structural work—must follow the Chicago Building Code. This code regulates approved materials, ventilation, insulation, and construction methods.

For example:

• If you're replacing your roof, you can't just install new shingles over a damaged structure.

• Chicago requires permits and inspections to ensure safety and long-term durability.

📄 You can review more about these requirements here:➡️ City of Chicago

⚠️ Important: Whether you're working through insurance or paying out-of-pocket (retail), all work must comply with the Chicago Building Code. This ensures your home is safe, legal, and protected.

✅ Option 1: Using your Insurance

How it works:

You file a claim, a claims adjuster inspects the damage, and if approved, your insurance covers the repairs (minus your deductible). Payments are usually made in stages—first the Actual Cash Value (ACV), then the remaining Replacement Cost Value (RCV) after the work is complete.

🟢 Pros:

• Lower out-of-pocket cost: You only pay the deductible.

• Covers more: You may be able to get more comprehensive repairs than you could afford on your own.

• Code compliance required: Most insurers require the work to follow all local building codes.

  
  

🔴 Cons:

• Time-consuming: The full process can take 6 to 12 months, especially if there are delays or disputes.

• No guarantees: The claim may be denied if the adjuster finds the damage insufficient.

• Lots of follow-up: You'll have to manage paperwork, calls, and possibly multiple inspections.

  
  

✅ Option 2: Paying Directly (Retail)

How it works:

You contact a company like Kolmena Construction, get a free inspection and estimate, and pay for the work without involving your insurance company.

🟢 Pros:

• Faster execution: Work can begin within days, not months.

• You’re in control: You choose the scope, materials, and schedule.

• Less hassle: No paperwork, approvals, or back-and-forth with insurers.

  
  

🔴 Cons:

• Full cost is yours to bear.

• You may need to prioritize certain repairs and postpone others.

• If done improperly, you may unknowingly violate building codes.

  
  

📌 Reminder: Even if you’re paying out-of-pocket, you are still required to follow all Chicago building codes, including obtaining permits when necessary.

🧠 Which Option Is Best for You?

Consider these three main factors:

1. Extent of damage: For major damage, insurance may help cover more.

2. Your current budget: If paying out-of-pocket is not realistic, insurance might be your best bet.

3. Your urgency: If you need the repairs completed quickly (especially before winter), retail is often the faster route.

💡 Want to know your rights as a homeowner in Illinois?➡️ Illinois Department of Insurance – Homeowners Claims Guide

What’s Best for Your Home Repairs?

👷 Kolmena Construction Can Help Either Way

Whether you go through your insurance or pay retail, our team is here to:

• Offer a free, no-obligation inspection.

• Help you understand whether your damage qualifies for a claim.

• Ensure the work meets all Chicago Building Code requirements.

• Provide honest, transparent estimates.

  
  

📞 Ready to get started? Contact us today, and let us help you protect your home!