How do you find a local roofer who works with insurance claims?
Short answer. Look for a roofer with a real local address, the state and local licenses your area requires, proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance, and a track record with storm claims. A good one inspects for free, shows you photos, meets your adjuster, and explains the estimate line by line. Avoid anyone who offers to cover your deductible or pushes you to sign over your claim at the door.
Check that they are local and legitimate
- Address and history. A physical office and a long review record in your area, not an out of state truck that appeared after the storm.
- Licensing. Georgia licenses residential contractors through a state board under the Secretary of State, and many cities and counties require business licenses and permits. Ask which licenses the roofer holds and look them up.
- Insurance certificates. Ask for a certificate of insurance sent directly from the roofer's agent, showing general liability and workers' compensation.
- Reviews. Read reviews that mention insurance claims specifically, not just price.
Check that they know insurance
- Do they inspect and photograph every slope before you file?
- Will someone meet the adjuster on the roof?
- Do they write estimates in the line item format insurers use and handle supplements?
- Do they explain recoverable depreciation and how the final invoice releases it?
Red flags
- Offers to pay or waive your deductible, which is illegal in Georgia.
- Pressure to sign an assignment of your insurance proceeds right after a declared disaster, which Georgia treats as an unfair practice for one year.
- Large cash deposits before materials arrive.
- Promises that the claim will be approved.
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