How do you file a claim for roof damage?
Short answer. Document the damage with dated photos, protect the home from further damage, then report the claim to your insurer by phone, app or website with your policy number, the date of the storm and a short description. Get a claim number, schedule the adjuster inspection, and have a roofer inspect first so you know what damage to point out.
Before you call
- Confirm the storm date. Check local weather reports or a hail map so your date of loss is accurate.
- Photograph from the ground: missing shingles, debris, dented gutters and downspouts, damaged window screens and any interior stains.
- Get a roof inspection. A roofer can safely document hail hits and creased shingles you cannot see from the yard. See whether to call insurance or a roofer first.
- Read your declarations page for your deductible, especially any percentage wind and hail deductible.
Making the report
Give your policy number, the date and type of storm, a factual description of what you see, and whether water is getting inside. Stick to facts. Do not guess at the roof's age or say it has been leaking for a while unless you know that is true. Write down the claim number, the adjuster's name and every call.
After the report
- Prevent further damage and keep receipts for any temporary repairs.
- Schedule the adjuster inspection and ask your roofer to attend.
- Review the written estimate line by line when it arrives.
- Do not sign anything that hands your claim payment to a contractor, and do not let anyone promise to cover your deductible.
The full walk-through is in how to file a roof insurance claim.