A roof insurance claim can cover a major repair or a full replacement after storm damage, but small mistakes can slow it down or leave damage out of the estimate. Here are seven common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Waiting too long
Policies set deadlines for reporting damage, and damage that sits for months is harder to tie to a specific storm. Get an inspection soon after a hail or wind storm and check your policy for its time limits.
2. Not documenting the damage
Write down the storm date and take photos of anything you can see: dents on gutters, missing shingles, water stains inside. A professional inspection with photos gives you a clear record of what the roof looks like.
3. Letting a small leak become a big one
Most policies expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. If water is getting in, get the area tarped and keep the receipt. See our emergency roof tarping page.
4. Skipping the adjuster meeting
The adjuster’s inspection shapes your estimate. Having your roofer there helps make sure all the damage is seen and noted, including damage on slopes that are hard to see.
5. Not reading the estimate
Your insurer will send a written estimate, often called the scope of loss. Read it carefully, compare it with your roofer’s findings and ask questions about anything that looks missing.
6. Hiring an out-of-town storm chaser
After big storms, crews from out of state go door to door. Be careful with anyone who pressures you to sign on the spot, asks for large payments up front or does not have a local address you can verify. Choose a local roofer with reviews you can check.
7. Accepting an offer to cover your deductible
Be wary of any contractor who offers to waive or absorb your deductible. Your deductible is your responsibility under your policy, and offers like that can cause problems with your claim.
The bottom line
You stay in charge of your claim. A good roofer helps by documenting the damage, meeting your adjuster and doing the work right. Read our full roof insurance claim guide or see how we help on our insurance claims page.
Need a roof inspection?
Emergency Roofing Solutions serves homeowners across Metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Call 404-474-4222 (a live person answers 24/7) or schedule a free roof assessment.