How does an insurance claim work when shingles come off your roof?
Short answer. Wind that tears shingles off is a covered peril under most homeowners policies, so start by photographing the damage, saving the fallen shingles and covering any exposed decking. The adjuster then decides whether the roof can be repaired with matching shingles or needs replacement on one or more slopes.
Right after the storm
- Photograph bare spots and any shingles in the yard from the ground, with the date.
- Keep the fallen shingles. They show the brand, style, color and condition of the sealant strip, which helps with matching and proves wind lifted them.
- Cover exposed decking or underlayment with a tarp to prevent more water damage, and keep the receipt.
- Note the date and time of the wind event. Local storm reports help pin the date of loss.
What the adjuster looks for
Missing shingles are obvious, but the bigger question is the damage you cannot see from the ground. Wind often creases shingles that lift and fall back into place, breaking the bond at the sealant strip. Those creased tabs will blow off in the next storm. Adjusters also look at nailing, because shingles that were under-nailed or nailed high can be blamed on installation instead of wind.
Repair or replacement
A few missing shingles on a newer roof are often repaired. Replacement becomes more likely when:
- Many shingles across a slope are creased or unsealed.
- The old shingles are too brittle to lift for a repair without cracking.
- The shingle is discontinued and no reasonable match exists.
Compare the likely repair cost to your deductible before you file. Read more in wind damage roof claims and partial replacement and matching.