How to File a Roof Insurance Claim: Step by Step
Storm damage, hail, and fallen trees can devastate your roof. This guide walks you through every step to ensure you get a fair settlement from your homeowner's insurance.
Document the Damage Immediately
Time is critical. Document damage as soon as it is safe to do so:
- Take photos and videos of all visible damage from multiple angles
- Photograph the roof from the ground and up close (if safe)
- Document interior damage (water stains, leaks, wet insulation)
- Save weather reports or news coverage of the storm event
- Note the date and time of the damage event
Make Emergency Repairs
You have a duty to mitigate further damage. Cover active leaks with tarps and place buckets under drips. Keep all receipts -- emergency repair costs are typically reimbursable under your policy.
Warning: Do not make permanent repairs until the adjuster has inspected.
Contact Your Insurance Company
File your claim as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt notification -- typically within 30-60 days of the damage event. When you call:
- Have your policy number ready
- Describe the damage and when it occurred
- Ask about your deductible amount
- Request the claim number and adjuster assignment timeline
- Ask if there is a time limit for completing repairs
Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Before the insurance adjuster visits, hire a reputable roofing contractor to inspect your roof independently. Most contractors offer free storm damage inspections. The inspection should detail:
Use our contractor selection guide for finding a trustworthy roofer.
Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
The adjuster will inspect your roof to assess the damage. Best practices:
- Be present during the inspection -- never let the adjuster inspect alone
- Have your contractor present -- they can point out damage the adjuster might miss
- Provide your documentation -- photos, contractor's report, weather data
- Take notes -- record what the adjuster says and does not say
- Ask questions -- understand what is and is not being covered
Review the Settlement Offer
The insurance company will send a settlement offer. Review it carefully:
- Compare line items to your contractor's estimate
- Check that all damage areas are included
- Verify the depreciation calculations (if applicable)
- Confirm the material and labor rates match your local market
Use our guide to reading roofing estimates to understand line items.
Negotiate If Needed
If the settlement offer is too low, you have options:
Supplement the claim
Your contractor can submit additional documentation for damage the adjuster missed.
Request re-inspection
Ask for a different adjuster or a re-inspection if you believe the assessment was inadequate.
Hire a public adjuster
An independent claims adjuster works on your behalf (typically for 10-15% of the settlement).
File an appeal
Most policies have a formal appeals process for disputed claims.
Complete the Repairs
Once you accept the settlement, complete the repairs within the timeframe specified in your policy (typically 1-2 years). The insurance company may issue payment in stages -- an initial check minus depreciation, then the recoverable depreciation after repairs are completed.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Signing over your claim
Never sign an "Assignment of Benefits" that gives a contractor full control over your insurance claim.
Waiting too long
File promptly. Delays can result in denied claims.
Not documenting enough
You cannot over-document. More photos and records strengthen your position.
Accepting the first offer
The initial settlement is often negotiable. Getting a contractor's estimate first gives you leverage.
Paying the deductible to the contractor
Be cautious of contractors who offer to "waive" your deductible -- this is insurance fraud in most states.