Posted April 9, 2025 | Anderson Roofing

After a powerful storm rips through your neighborhood, the damage can be overwhelming. One of the worst parts is seeing the condition of your roof and wondering how you’re going to cover the repair costs. As the wind howls and debris scatters, you may have been left scrambling to assess the damage while trying to understand the often confusing process of filing an insurance claim. Unfortunately, it can be easy to fall into traps laid by unscrupulous contractors who prey on those in distress.

Storm damage close to homes

1. Take Immediate Action to Assess the Damage

Before you do anything, make sure your home is safe. If the damage to your roof is significant, check for leaks that could cause water damage to your home’s interior. Use a tarp or plastic sheeting to cover vulnerable areas and prevent further harm, if possible.

Once you’ve secured your home, the next step is to assess the damage. Do this yourself or with the help of a trusted roofing professional. Be sure to take detailed photos of all visible damage. This will serve as evidence for your insurance claim and help you avoid disputes later.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company Right Away

After a storm, insurance companies are often inundated with claims, so it’s important to contact them as soon as you can. Some policies have specific time limits within which you must file a claim, so don’t wait too long. Call your insurance agent to start the process. Make sure to ask about any specific documentation or procedures they require for roof damage claims.

While speaking with your insurance company, be prepared to provide the following:

  • A detailed description of the damage
  • Photos or videos you’ve taken

Remember, your insurance company may ask you to wait until an adjuster can inspect the roof before making any repairs, so avoid jumping into any work immediately unless it’s to prevent further damage.

3. Working with Insurance Adjusters

Once you’ve filed the claim, an adjuster will likely visit your home to assess the damage. This is an important step in the process, so it’s important to be prepared. The adjuster will examine your roof and determine whether the damage is covered under your policy and how much of the repair cost they will approve.

Before the adjuster arrives, consider hiring a roofing professional to conduct their own inspection. An experienced roofer can identify damage that may be overlooked by the adjuster. They can also offer a second opinion on the cost of repairs, which might help in case you need to dispute the adjuster’s evaluation.

Once the adjuster finishes their assessment, they will provide a report detailing their findings. It’s important to review this carefully so that all damage gets documented accurately.

4. Know What’s Covered Under Your Policy

Insurance policies vary, so make sure you understand what’s covered in your specific plan. Some roof damage might be covered under standard homeowners insurance, while other types, like wear and tear, may not be eligible.

Generally, most policies cover damage caused by storms, including hail, wind, and fallen trees. However, if your roof was in poor condition before the storm, your claim might not cover the full cost of repairs. It’s important to read your policy details to fully understand your coverage and any exclusions that might apply.

If the adjuster provides an estimate that doesn’t seem accurate or leaves out certain damage, don’t hesitate to challenge the findings. You have the right to request a re-evaluation or even hire an independent adjuster to get a second opinion.

5. Beware of Storm-Chasing Contractors

Unfortunately, after a storm, scammers often target homeowners desperate to repair their roofs. These “storm-chasing” contractors typically show up uninvited and offer quick repairs at low prices. While some of these contractors may be legitimate, many are simply looking to take advantage of vulnerable homeowners.

To avoid falling victim to a scam, follow these guidelines:

  • Do your research and hire a local contractor: Always check reviews and references before hiring a contractor.
  • Get multiple quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Comparing estimates can help you find fair pricing.
  • Don’t pay upfront: Avoid contractors who demand full payment before starting work.
  • Be wary of high-pressure tactics: Legitimate contractors won’t pressure you into making immediate decisions.

Taking these steps will help protect you from scams while ensuring the repairs are done correctly and to your satisfaction.

6. Hire a Reliable Local Roofing Contractor

To get your roof back in shape, you’ll need a reliable, experienced roofer. Ideally, look for local contractors with a strong reputation for quality work. Make sure they’re licensed, insured, and familiar with your type of insurance policy.

In some cases, the insurance company will pay roofing contractors directly. In others, you may receive the payout and then pay your contractor yourself. Keep in mind that any deductible you’re responsible for will need to be covered upfront. If you live in the Fremont, Ohio area and your insurance claim is approved, we can work directly with your insurance company to cover the cost of the repairs and help guide you through the insurance claims process right from the beginning if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

7. Stay Organized and Keep Track of Everything

A successful insurance claim process requires good documentation. Keep all paperwork related to your claim organized, including:

  • Correspondence with your insurance company
  • Photos of the damage
  • Estimates from roofing contractors
  • Copies of invoices and receipts

If your claim is delayed or disputed, having detailed records will help support your case.

Get Help with Your Roof Insurance Claim

Filing a roof insurance claim after a storm can be overwhelming. With the right preparation and expert guidance, it’s entirely possible to navigate the process smoothly. The first step is understanding your policy—what’s covered and what’s not. Knowing the details of your coverage can prevent surprises later. Working with insurance adjusters can also be tricky; they may have their own expectations, but having a trusted roofing professional by your side can ensure that the full extent of your damage is properly documented.

By choosing Anderson Roofing, you can be confident that you’ll be treated fairly and that the repair process will go as smoothly as possible. Our expertise and attention to detail ensure that your roof gets repaired right the first time without any unnecessary delays or complications. If you’ve had roof damage that might be covered under your homeowners insurance, contact us today.

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