When severe weather strikes, it can leave a trail of destruction in its wake. Roof damage, in particular, can be one of the most costly and urgent repairs to address. Fortunately, homeowners can turn to their insurance policy to help cover the cost of repairs. However, the process of claiming roof damage on your insurance after a storm can be complicated. To ensure you get the compensation you’re entitled to, follow these essential tips for filing a roof damage claim.

1. Inspect Your Roof and Document the Damage Immediately

The first step after a storm is to assess your roof for damage. The sooner you document the damage, the better. Take clear photos or videos from various angles to show the full extent of the damage. Be thorough—don’t just take pictures of visible damage like missing shingles. Look for other issues such as:

• Dented or cracked shingles
• Leaks or water damage inside your home
• Damage to flashing, gutters, or roof vents
• Damage to your attic insulation

Documenting the damage in detail is crucial because it helps establish the severity of the issue and ensures that your claim reflects the full scope of repairs needed.

2. Review Your Insurance Policy

Not all insurance policies are the same. Before filing a claim, it’s essential to review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand your coverage. Key things to look for include:

• Type of coverage: Most standard homeowner’s policies cover storm damage, but it’s important to check whether your policy covers hail, wind, or flood damage. Some policies may have exclusions for certain types of storm damage.
• Deductibles: Be aware of your deductible. The deductible is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket before your roof insurance coverage kicks in. If your roof damage is minor, it may not be worth filing a claim if the cost of repair is lower than your deductible.
• Limits on claims: Some policies may limit how much they’ll pay for roof repairs or replacements, especially if the roof is older.

If you’re unsure about any part of your policy, it’s a good idea to speak with your insurance agent to get clarification.

3. Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor for a Thorough Inspection

While it may be tempting to try to inspect and repair the damage yourself, hiring a professional roofing contractor is a smart move. A licensed roofer can conduct a thorough inspection to identify all areas of damage, even those that may not be immediately visible. They can also provide an estimate for the cost of repairs, which can serve as supporting documentation for your claim.

Many roofing contractors also have experience working with insurance claim companies and can help guide you through the process. They can ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and details to strengthen your case.

4. File Your Claim Promptly

After documenting the damage and understanding your policy, it’s important to file your claim as soon as possible. Most insurance companies have a specific time frame in which you need to file a claim after a storm, typically within a few days or weeks. Failing to meet the deadline could result in your claim being denied, even if you have valid damage.

When filing the claim, make sure to:

• Provide all necessary documentation: Submit photos, contractor reports, and any other relevant information. The more thorough you are, the smoother the process will go.
• Describe the damage clearly: Be specific about what was damaged and the potential impact on your home. Avoid making exaggerated claims, as this could lead to your claim being questioned or denied.
• Follow up with your insurance company: Keep track of your claim’s progress and make sure that all documents have been received and processed.

5. Meet with the Insurance Adjuster

Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage to your roof. It’s important to be present during this visit to ensure the adjuster sees the full extent of the damage. Here are some tips to prepare:

• Be prepared with your documentation: Provide the adjuster with the photos, videos, and contractor reports you’ve collected. This will help them understand the severity of the damage.
• Point out hidden damage: If there is damage that isn’t immediately visible, such as leaks or issues with the attic, make sure the adjuster is aware of it.
• Get a second opinion: If the adjuster’s estimate seems too low or doesn’t cover all the necessary repairs, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion from a roofing contractor. This can help support your claim and ensure that the estimate is fair.

6. Review the Insurance Settlement

Once the insurance adjuster has reviewed the damage and provided an estimate, you’ll receive a settlement offer from your insurance company. It’s important to carefully review the settlement to ensure it covers the full scope of repairs. Some things to check for include:

• Are all the necessary repairs covered? Make sure that the settlement includes all damage to your roof and any related issues inside your home, like water damage or insulation problems.
• Is the payout sufficient to cover the deductible? The settlement should take your deductible into account. If the settlement offer is lower than expected, reach out to your insurance company for clarification.
• Understand the payment process: Some policies pay out in stages, with an initial payment followed by a final payout after the work is completed. Make sure you understand the payment schedule and any conditions attached to it.

7. Make Sure to Complete the Repairs

Once the insurance company approves your claim, it’s time to get your roof repaired. It’s critical to hire a reputable contractor to ensure the work is done properly and in accordance with your insurance company’s requirements.

Be sure to:

• Get multiple estimates: If you haven’t already obtained an estimate from a contractor, now is the time to get one. Make sure to get several quotes to compare pricing and services.
• Follow up with your insurance company: After repairs are complete, keep your insurance company updated and provide them with any final invoices or receipts.

Claiming roof damage on insurance after a storm can be a stressful and time-consuming process, but by following these essential tips, you can ensure that you get the compensation you’re entitled to. The key to success lies in thorough documentation, understanding your insurance policy, hiring a professional for help, and staying proactive throughout the process. By staying organized and diligent, you can ensure that your roof is repaired properly and that your claim is processed smoothly.

If you have roof damage and need help with the claims process, don’t hesitate to reach out to Blue Spruce Roofing & Exteriors, the leading roof inspector for insurance claims in Denver, Co.