How long do you have to report storm damage to insurance?
Short answer. As soon as reasonably possible, ideally within days of the storm. Policies require prompt notice, and many Georgia policies set a hard outer limit for wind and hail claims, commonly one or two years, but the strongest claims are reported quickly, with photos taken and temporary repairs made right after the storm.
The first 72 hours
- Safety first: stay away from downed lines and off the roof.
- Photograph: every side of the house, the yard, the attic and any ceilings with stains, before cleanup.
- Stop the water: tarp openings and catch drips. Keep receipts.
- Note the storm: date, time, what you saw, hail size if you saw it.
- Get the roof inspected: so you know what you are reporting.
- Report the claim.
What to have ready when you report
- Policy number and the names on the policy.
- Date and approximate time of the storm.
- A short, factual description: missing shingles, dented gutters, a leak in the upstairs bedroom.
- Whether water is entering the house and what temporary repairs you made.
- Your best phone number and times you are available for an inspection.
- Your mortgage company's name, since it may be named on the check.
After you report
Write down the claim number and the adjuster's contact information when it arrives. In Georgia, the insurer generally must acknowledge the claim within 15 days. Schedule the inspection for a time your roofer can attend.
What not to say
Stick to facts. Do not guess at the roof's age, speculate about old leaks, or describe damage you have not seen.
More: the after-storm checklist, emergency tarping and how to file.