How to File an Insurance Claim for Storm Damage on Your Roof: A Step‐by‐Step Guide
Storms are a fact of life across the Midwest. High winds, hail and heavy rain can strip shingles, puncture flashing or topple trees onto a roof. While SB Roofing Solutions is here to help you repair or replace a damaged roof, one of the first things homeowners often ask is: “How do I file an insurance claim?”
When handled correctly, a roof insurance claim can cover most – if not all – of the repair costs. When handled poorly, it can lead to delays or even a denial. The following guide breaks down each step of the process and shares pro‐tips to give you the best chance of a successful settlement.
Step 1: SAFELY Document the Damage
Ensure safety. After severe weather, check that the overall structure of your home is un-compromised and watch for hazards like downed power lines.
WHEN IT’S SAFE, SHIFT FOCUS TO Prevent further damage. Make essential repairs to protect your home, such as covering holes in the roof with a tarp or boarding up broken windows. NAIC notes that if a roof has holes, you should cover it with a tarp to prevent water damage and keep receipts for these emergency repairs. Do not ATTEMPT TO make permanent repairs yet – only temporary measures to prevent additional damage.
Take photos and videos. Thorough documentation is critical. The NAIC recommends photographing or videotaping all damaged areas and jotting down notes about what you see. Forbes Advisor also stresses that you should safely assess roof damage and take close‐up and wide shots of missing shingles, punctures and water damage, AS IS SAFE FOR YOU TO DO SO. If you can’t safely access your roof, CALL a professional inspector, SUCH AS SB ROOFING SOLUTIONS, WHO OFFERS FREE INSPECTIONS.
Create a storm log. Write down the date and time of the storm and any relevant weather details (hail size, wind speeds, lightning). Collect news reports or weather service alerts if available. This helps prove that the damage came from a specific covered event.
Step 2: Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
Every policy is different. Before calling your insurance company, look over the declarations page to find out:
• What perils are covered? Homeowners policies usually cover sudden or accidental roof damage caused by events such as wind, hail, falling objects or fire. They generally exclude damage from wear and tear, lack of maintenance, floods or earthquakes.
STUDY Your deductibles. FOR EXAMPLE, The Ohio Department of Insurance notes that most homeowners policies have two deductibles: an “all other perils” deductible and a separate wind/hail deductible. The wind/hail deductible may be a flat amount or a percentage of the home’s insured value. Knowing these amounts helps determine whether the repair cost exceeds your deductible.
Actual cash value vs. replacement cost. Some policies pay only the depreciated value of an older roof, while others pay for full replacement. The Insurance Information Institute advises asking your agent whether your claim will be settled based on replacement cost or actual cash value and how long you have to file.
If you’re unsure what your policy covers, call your agent or a public adjuster to walk through it.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company ASAP
Time is of the essence. Both NAIC and Forbes recommend reporting or filing a claim as soon as you determine your roof is damaged. Waiting too long can lead to further damage that may not be covered.
When you call your insurer:
• Ask whether the damage is covered under your policy and how long you have to file. •Find out if you need to provide repair estimates or a proof‐of‐loss form.
• Write down the claim number, the adjuster’s contact information and everything discussed. Keepinga log of calls and correspondence helps resolve disputes later. State Farm notes that you can report a roof claim online, through the insurer’s mobile app, via your agent or by calling the claims line.
Step 4: Make Temporary Repairs and Save ReceiptsMost policies require homeowners to prevent further damage. Use tarps, plywood or waterproof materials to cover holes. NAIC cautions against making permanent repairs until your insurance adjuster has inspected the damage. Save receipts for all emergency repairs because they are reimbursable as part of your settlement.
Step 5: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection and Get Estimates
If you haven’t already scheduled, hire a licensed roofing contractor to perform an official, detailed inspection. A professional can:
Identify hidden structural damage and provide a comprehensive report for the claim.
Offer an itemized estimate on company letterhead, including material quantities, labour costs, work specifications and approximate start and completion dates. State Farm recommends that repair estimates list all materials (including vents and flashing), labour charges, payment procedures, building permits and warranty details.
Provide documentation that may help your adjuster understand the scope of work. Getting multiple estimates can strengthen your claim and demonstrate that your requested payout is reasonable.
Step 6: Meet With the Insurance Adjuster
Your insurer will send an adjuster or appraiser to inspect the damage, verify coverage and calculate the settlement. Forbes notes that an adjuster looks for missing and damaged shingles, water damage beneath shingles and signs of wear and tear. Prepare for this visit by:
• Being present (or having your roofer present) to point out all damage.
• Providing photos, videos, receipts and the contractor’s estimate.
• Walking the adjuster through hidden areas such as attic leaks or cracked decking.
If the adjuster cannot complete a thorough inspection in one visit, he or she may “scope the loss” and return later. The California Department of Insurance explains that a scope of loss documents the degree of damage and measurements needed for the estimate.
Step 7: Complete and Submit Your Claim
After the inspection you may need to complete a proof‐of‐loss form or upload supporting documents. Submit all requested information promptly. Keep copies of everything you send, as well as any paperwork your insurance company provides.
Once the insurer reviews the documentation and determines coverage, it will issue a settlement. Be aware that the first payment is often an advance against the total settlement, not the final payment.
Step 8: Negotiate, Appeal or Reopen the Claim if Necessary
If the initial settlement seems too low, you have options:
Negotiate: Forbes notes that you can negotiate the claim if the offer doesn’t match your contractor’s estimate.
Appeal: You can appeal the insurer’s decision. Forbes explains that insurers may send another adjuster and a roofing specialist during an appeal, and you can contact your state’s insurance department for assistance.
Reopen: Many policies allow you to reopen a claim if additional damage is discovered. SC’s Department of Insurance notes that the initial payment is often an advance and you can reopen the claim if you find more damage later.
Hire a public adjuster: For complicated or disputed claims, consider hiring a licensed public adjuster to represent your interests.
Step 9: Choose a Reputable Roofing Contractor and Complete Repairs
Once you receive the final settlement, select a contractor with proper licensing, insurance and references. State Farm advises hiring an established, licensed or bonded roofer and verifying their insurance coverage. for example, SB roofing solutions is licensed, bonded, insured and accreddited by the business bureau.
Before signing any contract, ensure the work specification, cost breakdown, payment schedule, timeline and warranty details are clear. Keep copies of all contracts and receipts. if applicable Your mortgage lender may need to endorse the payment or place funds in escrow, so coordinate with them if you have a mortgage
Tips and Tricks to Strengthen Your Claim
• Keep a home inventory: Before disaster strikes, create a list of your belongings (photos, receipts and descriptions). This speeds up the claims process for both personal property and roof damage.
• Maintain your roof: Insurance typically excludes damage from lack of maintenance or normal wear. Regular inspections and repairs help prevent claim denials.
• Understand deductibles: Know whether you have a flat wind/hail deductible or a percentage deductible. The Ohio Department of Insurance warns that percentage deductibles are based on the insured value of your home, not the damage amount.
• Avoid scams: After storms, unscrupulous contractors may offer quick fixes or ask for large deposits. NAIC and State Farm caution against paying large sums upfront and suggest contacting your Better Business Bureau to check for complaints and/or find an accredited roofer like sb roofing solutions.
• Communicate in writing: Keep all correspondence in writing when possible, and note the date, time and name of every person you speak with.
• Don’t delay: Acting quickly to document damage and file your claim improves your chances of success.
In closing, Filing a roof insurance claim can seem daunting, especially when you’re dealing with storm damage and worry about further issues. By following the steps above – documenting damage, understanding your policy, contacting your insurer promptly, getting professional inspections and staying organized – you’ll make the process smoother and increase the likelihood of a fair settlement.
SB Roofing Solutions has extensive experience working with homeowners and insurance companies throughout the greater midwest and the surrounding areas. If your roof has been damaged by wind, hail or fallen debris, contact us today for a free inspection. We’ll help you document the damage, provide detailed estimates and guide you through the claims process from start to finish.
