Filing a roof insurance claim after storm damage can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach it does not have to be. Best Roofing Pros has helped thousands of Midwest homeowners navigate the insurance claims process successfully. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get the coverage you deserve.
Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately
As soon as it is safe to do so after a storm, take photos and videos of any visible damage from the ground. Capture images of missing shingles, dents in gutters, damaged siding, and any debris on or around your property. This initial documentation establishes a timeline and provides evidence of storm-related damage that your insurance company will need to see.
Step 2: Prevent Further Damage
Your homeowners insurance policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. If you have an active leak, place buckets to catch water and move belongings away from the affected area. If there is a hole in your roof, a temporary tarp can prevent water from entering your home. Keep receipts for any emergency supplies you purchase, as these costs are typically reimbursable under your policy.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance provider to file a claim as soon as possible after the storm. Most policies have time limits for reporting damage, so do not delay. When you call, have your policy number ready and provide a general description of the damage. The insurance company will assign a claim number and schedule an adjuster visit.
Step 4: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Before the insurance adjuster arrives, have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof. A trained roofer can identify damage that is not visible from the ground, including bruised shingles, cracked flashing, and compromised underlayment. Best Roofing Pros provides free storm damage inspections and detailed reports that document every area of concern.
Step 5: Be Present for the Adjuster Visit
When the insurance adjuster comes to inspect your property, be there or have your roofing contractor present. The adjuster may not go on the roof themselves, which means they could miss significant damage. Having a knowledgeable roofer on site ensures all damage is pointed out and documented in the adjuster report.
Step 6: Review the Settlement Offer Carefully
Once the adjuster completes their report, your insurance company will send a settlement offer. Review it carefully and compare it to the estimate from your roofing contractor. If the offer seems low, you have the right to negotiate. Common reasons for low offers include missed damage, incorrect material pricing, or failure to account for code upgrades required during replacement.
Step 7: Choose a Reputable Roofing Contractor
Select a licensed, insured roofing contractor with experience handling insurance work in your area. Be cautious of storm chasers who go door to door after severe weather. Best Roofing Pros is a locally established company with eight offices across the Midwest, and we work directly with insurance companies every day to ensure our customers receive fair settlements.
Common Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid
Do not wait too long to file your claim, as most policies have strict deadlines. Do not make permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects the damage. Do not sign any contracts with contractors who ask you to sign over your insurance rights. And do not accept the first offer if it does not cover the full cost of proper repairs.
Need Help With Your Storm Damage Claim?
Best Roofing Pros has a dedicated insurance claims team that guides homeowners through every step of the process. From the initial inspection to working with your adjuster to completing the final repairs, we handle it all. Call us at 877-513-4946 for a free storm damage assessment and insurance claim consultation.