Storm Damage: How to File a Successful Roof Insurance Claim

After a severe storm, dealing with insurance claims adds stress to an already difficult situation. This guide will help you navigate the process and protect your interests.

Immediate Steps After Storm Damage

1. Document Everything

Before calling your insurance company:

• Take photos and videos of all damage (roof, gutters, siding, interior)
• Note the date and time of the storm
• Document any emergency repairs you make
• Keep receipts for temporary repairs

2. Prevent Further Damage

You're required to prevent additional damage. This might include:

• Tarping damaged areas
• Moving valuables away from leaks
• Placing buckets under drips

Keep receipts - temporary repairs are usually covered.

3. Contact a Roofing Professional

Before calling your insurance company, have a professional assess the damage. They can identify hail damage, wind damage, and other issues you might miss, providing documentation to support your claim.

The Claims Process

Step 1: Call Your Insurance Company

Report the damage promptly. Delays can complicate claims. Be factual - report what you observe without speculation about coverage.

Step 2: Review Your Policy

Understand your coverage:

• Replacement cost vs. actual cash value
• Your deductible amount
• Policy limits
• Exclusions

Step 3: Meet the Adjuster

When the insurance adjuster inspects your roof:

• Be present during the inspection
• Have your contractor present too
• Show all damage you've documented
• Take notes on what the adjuster says
• Get the adjuster's report in writing

Step 4: Get a Detailed Estimate

Your contractor's estimate should match the scope of damage, not just the insurance estimate. If there are discrepancies, your contractor can help negotiate.

Common Claim Denials and How to Avoid Them

Pre-Existing Damage

The Issue: Insurers may claim damage existed before the storm.

Prevention: Regular maintenance records and pre-storm photos help prove the damage is new.

Wear and Tear

The Issue: Insurers may attribute damage to age, not the storm.

Prevention: A professional can differentiate between age-related wear and storm damage.

Improper Maintenance

The Issue: Insurers may deny claims if they believe the homeowner neglected maintenance.

Prevention: Keep records of roof maintenance and repairs.

Working With Your Contractor

A good contractor will:

• Document all damage thoroughly
• Meet with the adjuster on your behalf
• Provide detailed estimates
• Help negotiate if the initial estimate is too low
• Work with your insurance company's preferred methods

Understanding Payment

Insurance typically pays in stages:

1. Initial payment: Actual cash value minus your deductible
2. Final payment: Recoverable depreciation after work is complete

What If Your Claim Is Denied?

You have options:

• Request a detailed explanation in writing
• Get a second opinion from another contractor
• Request a re-inspection
• File an appeal with your insurance company
• Contact your state's insurance commissioner
• Consider hiring a public adjuster

Red Flags to Avoid

• Contractors offering to waive your deductible (insurance fraud)
• Contractors who want to negotiate your claim without your involvement
• Contractors pressuring you to sign before the insurance adjuster visits
• Storm chasers from out of state who won't be around for warranty issues

Our Commitment

At Holland Exteriors, we've helped hundreds of homeowners successfully navigate insurance claims. We provide:

• Free storm damage inspections
• Comprehensive damage documentation
• Presence during adjuster meetings
• Detailed estimates that match insurance requirements
• Assistance throughout the entire claims process

If your home has suffered storm damage, call us at (414) 340-3890 before filing your claim. We offer free inspections and emergency repair services. We'll make sure you have the documentation and support you need.