Insurance claim guide

Navigate your roof insurance claim with confidence.

Step-by-step claim process, free satellite roof measurements, a downloadable claim kit, and the knowledge to get the payout you deserve.

Free adjuster-ready report

Address in, measurements + roof age + storm history out — under 10 seconds.

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  • Independent measurements
    The numbers you bring to the adjuster meeting so their scope can't shrink yours.
  • Verified NOAA storm history
    Dated hail and wind events near your address — the documentation carriers accept.
  • Downloadable claim kit
    Damage checklist, insurer phone script, and adjuster questions in one PDF.
  • Depreciation & O&P glossary
    Understand ACV vs RCV, deductibles, and supplements before the first call.
02 The process

The 6-step insurance claim process.

Follow this timeline to stay organized and maximize your claim. Each step builds on the last.

1

Document All Damage

Take photos and video of all visible damage from the ground. Capture close-ups of missing shingles, dents, and debris. Do not climb on the roof, it is dangerous and your insurance company does not require it.

2

File Your Claim

Contact your insurance company within 48 hours of discovering the damage. Write down your claim number and the name of your adjuster. Ask about your policy's time limits and what documentation they need.

3

Get Your Free Roof Report

Use our free satellite tool to get accurate roof measurements, area, pitch, and segments. No ladder required. This gives you independent data to compare against your adjuster's scope of work.

4

Meet With Your Adjuster

Be present for the adjuster's inspection. Bring your roof report data, photos, and a list of all damage you have documented. Take detailed notes during the visit and ask for a copy of their report.

5

Get Contractor Estimates

Get at least 3 written estimates from licensed, insured local roofing contractors. Make sure each estimate includes the same scope of work so you can compare them fairly. Avoid storm chasers who show up unsolicited.

6

Review & Negotiate

Compare the adjuster's scope of work to your independent measurements and contractor estimates. If the numbers do not match, you have the right to request a re-inspection or file a supplement for additional damage.

03 What to avoid

Common pitfalls that cost homeowners thousands.

Knowing these upfront puts you ahead of the adjuster and the storm chasers.

Missing the Filing Deadline

Most policies require you to file within 1-2 years, but some have shorter windows. Waiting too long can result in a denied claim, even if the damage is legitimate.

Accepting the First Offer Without Review

The initial payout is often lower than the actual repair cost. Always compare the adjuster's scope to independent measurements and contractor estimates before accepting.

Not Getting Independent Measurements

Without your own roof data, you have no way to verify if the adjuster's measurements are accurate. A free satellite report gives you the leverage you need.

Signing an AOB Without Understanding It

An Assignment of Benefits (AOB) transfers your insurance rights to a contractor. This can limit your control over the claim and make it harder to switch contractors.

Choosing a Storm Chaser Over a Local Roofer

Out-of-town contractors who follow storms often disappear after the job. Choose a licensed local roofer with a verifiable address, reviews, and warranty support.

03b What to say

Say this, not that.

The exact phrasing that protects your claim, and the casual answers that quietly shrink it. None of this is legal advice; it’s just what experienced public adjusters and roofers tell homeowners on every storm call.

Moment
When you first call to open the claim
Don’t say

“My roof is leaking, I think a tree branch hit it last spring.”

Pinning damage to one old event lets the carrier deny everything else and argue you missed the reporting window.

Say this instead

“I’d like to open a claim for storm-related roof damage. I noticed the damage today and I’m calling within my policy’s reporting window.”

Keeps the date of loss tied to discovery, leaves room for hail and wind to be the cause, and locks in your timely-notice obligation.

Moment
When the adjuster asks what’s wrong
Don’t say

“There are some old shingles missing and a couple of dents.”

“Old” and “a couple” become the adjuster’s notes and shrink the scope before they even get on the ladder.

Say this instead

“I’ve documented impact marks, displaced shingles, granule loss in the gutters, and damage to soft metals (vents, flashing). I’d like a full roof inspection.”

Forces a full roof inspection rather than a spot-check, and names the soft-metal indicators adjusters use to confirm hail.

Moment
Standing on the driveway during the inspection
Don’t say

“It’s probably nothing major. The roof’s pretty old anyway.”

Volunteers age + low severity. The adjuster will note both and apply maximum depreciation.

Say this instead

“My contractor and I both walked the roof. Here are our notes and photos. Can you confirm what you’re marking as storm-related vs. wear-and-tear?”

Puts the burden on the adjuster to call out each line item explicitly. Makes supplements easier later.

Moment
When the adjuster offers a partial repair instead of replacement
Don’t say

“If you think a few patches will do, that’s fine.”

Accepting a repair scope on the spot can waive your right to a full replacement even if matching shingles are unavailable.

Say this instead

“I’d like the scope in writing first. If matching shingles aren’t available, I want to discuss the matching statute / endorsement on my policy before agreeing to a repair.”

Many states require matching when partial repairs would leave a visible mismatch, but you have to invoke it.

Moment
When the first payout arrives and feels low
Don’t say

“I guess that’s what they’re willing to pay.”

Cashing the check without comparing line items is treated as acceptance of the scope.

Say this instead

“I’ve compared your scope to my contractor’s estimate and our independent measurements. Here’s the line-item difference. I’d like to file a supplement for [X, Y, Z].”

Supplements are a normal part of the process. Specific line items + independent measurements is what gets them approved.

Moment
When a door-knocker says “we’ll handle the whole claim for you”
Don’t say

“Sure, where do I sign?”

Most of those agreements are Assignment of Benefits (AOB) contracts. You give up control of the claim and sometimes the payout.

Say this instead

“I’d like to read the contract and have someone I trust look at it before I sign anything. I’m not assigning benefits today.”

Buys time, protects your right to choose a different contractor, and makes it clear you understand what AOB is.

04 Coverage glossary

What your insurance should cover.

Understanding these terms tells you what you’re owed and whether your settlement is fair.

RCV vs ACV (Replacement Cost vs Actual Cash Value)

RCV policies pay the full cost to replace your roof with new materials of similar kind and quality. You receive the depreciated amount upfront and the rest (recoverable depreciation) after repairs are completed. ACV policies only pay the depreciated value, meaning if your roof is 15 years old, you may only receive 50% of the replacement cost.

Your Deductible

Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. It may be a flat amount ($1,000 - $5,000) or a percentage of your home’s insured value (commonly 1-2%). Check your declarations page to know your exact amount. Any contractor who offers to "waive your deductible" is asking you to commit insurance fraud.

O&P (Overhead & Profit)

Overhead and Profit (typically 20%, 10% overhead + 10% profit) covers the contractor’s business costs. Insurance companies sometimes exclude O&P from the initial estimate, but it is a legitimate cost that most contractors require. If it is missing from your scope, request it as a supplement.

Code Upgrades

Building codes change over time. If your local code now requires ice and water shield, drip edge, or upgraded ventilation that your old roof did not have, your insurance should cover the upgrade cost. This is often missed on initial estimates, ask your contractor to identify any code-required changes.

The Supplement Process

A supplement is a request for additional funds after hidden damage is found during repairs. This is normal and expected, rotten decking, damaged flashing, and other issues are often invisible until shingles are removed. Your contractor documents the additional damage with photos and submits it to your insurer for approval.

05 Claim kit

Download your free insurance claim kit.

Damage documentation checklist, phone script for calling your insurer, a timeline tracker, and the list of questions to ask your adjuster.

06 Common questions

Insurance claim FAQ.

How long do I have to file a roof insurance claim?
Filing deadlines vary by policy and state, but most homeowner policies require you to report damage within 1-2 years. However, you should file as soon as possible, ideally within 48 hours of discovering the damage. Delays can give your insurer grounds to question whether the damage was storm-related or due to neglect.
What if my roof insurance claim is denied?
A denial is not the end. First, request the denial in writing and review the specific reason. Common reasons include missed deadlines, pre-existing damage, or cosmetic-only damage. You can file an appeal with additional documentation, get a second inspection, hire a public adjuster, or consult an attorney who specializes in insurance claims.
Should I do temporary repairs before the adjuster comes?
Yes, your policy requires you to mitigate further damage. Cover holes with tarps, board up broken areas, and keep all receipts. Document everything with photos before and after temporary repairs. Your insurance should reimburse reasonable temporary repair costs.
What is depreciation on a roof insurance claim?
Depreciation is the reduction in your payout based on the age and condition of your roof. If you have an ACV (Actual Cash Value) policy, depreciation is subtracted from your payout. With an RCV (Replacement Cost Value) policy, depreciation is withheld initially but paid back after you complete the repairs and submit proof.
Do I need a public adjuster?
A public adjuster works for you, not the insurance company, and can be worth it for large or complex claims. They typically charge 10-15% of your settlement. Consider one if your claim was denied, the payout seems too low, or you do not have time to manage the process yourself.
Can I choose my own roofing contractor?
Yes. Your insurance company cannot require you to use a specific contractor. You have the right to choose any licensed, insured contractor. Get at least 3 estimates and pick a local roofer with solid reviews, proper licensing, and a clear written contract.
What if the damage is worse than the adjuster said?
This is common, adjusters inspect from the ground and may miss hidden damage. Once your contractor starts work and finds additional damage (rotted decking, damaged flashing, etc.), they can document it and you can file a supplement with your insurance company for the additional cost. This is a standard part of the process.
07 Deep dives

Go deeper on the topics that matter.

Detailed guides on the four insurance situations that catch homeowners off guard.

Insurance · Pros

Public Adjuster vs. Roofer for Storm Damage

Both a public adjuster and a good roofer can advocate for you with the insurance company. They charge differently, fight different battles, and have different conflicts of interest. Here's how to choose.

READ →Insurance · Math

Roof Depreciation Explained: ACV vs. RCV

Depreciation is how insurance companies pay less than the cost to replace your roof. Understanding it is the difference between getting 100% of your roof paid for and getting 50%.

READ →Insurance · AOB

Assignment of Benefits (AOB) — Pros, Cons, and Traps

An Assignment of Benefits (AOB) hands your insurance claim rights to a contractor. It can simplify the process — or it can become a years-long nightmare. Here's what's actually happening when you sign.

READ →Insurance · Denials

Roof Insurance Claim Denied? Your Options

A denial isn't the end. Most denials are appealable, and many can be overturned with the right documentation and pressure. Here's the playbook by denial reason.

READ →
08 Get help

Get help with your claim.

Tell us about your storm damage and we’ll connect you with trusted local roofers who can help.

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