Roofing Insurance Claims: What to Do After a Natural Disaster

A Texas storm can turn your world upside down in minutes. Hail the size of golf balls, fierce winds, and relentless downpours can leave your roof battered and vulnerable. Once the skies clear, it’s time to assess the damage, file your insurance claim, and bring in a trusted roofing company like Valley Ridge Powered By Frontier Roofing to get your home back in shape.

Not sure where to start? Follow these steps to navigate the insurance claims process smoothly:

1. Document Everything Before Making Temporary Fixes

Your first instinct might be to start repairs right away, but before you grab that tarp, take detailed photos and videos of all damage. The more evidence you have, the better your chances of getting full compensation. Be sure to capture:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Dented or cracked gutters and flashing
• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Broken or shattered windows
• Debris that may have caused roof damage (like fallen branches or hailstones)

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve gathered evidence, notify your insurance provider as soon as possible. They will:

• Assign an adjuster to assess the damage
• Provide guidance on what’s covered under your policy
• Explain the next steps in the claims process

Keep a record of every conversation, including dates, names, and details of what was discussed.

3. Get a Professional Roofing Estimate

Insurance adjusters often undervalue repair costs to save the company money. Be proactive by getting an independent inspection and repair estimate from a reputable roofing company. A detailed estimate should include:

• The full scope of repairs needed
• Breakdown of materials and labor costs
• Documentation of damages not visible from the ground

Having this in hand gives you negotiating power when dealing with the insurance company.

4. Secure Your Home to Prevent Further Damage

Insurance companies require homeowners to “mitigate damages,” meaning you must take reasonable steps to protect your home from worsening conditions. This includes:

• Covering exposed areas with tarps or plywood
• Boarding up broken windows to prevent leaks or break-ins
• Removing standing water to avoid mold growth
• Securing loose objects that could cause additional damage

Failing to take these steps could result in partial claim denial, so act quickly.

5. Be Prepared for the Insurance Adjuster’s Visit

When the adjuster arrives, make sure they:

• See all the documented damage you found
• Acknowledge the cost estimates from your roofing contractor
• Understand the full extent of necessary repairs, not just surface-level fixes

If their estimate seems too low, don’t be afraid to push back with your own documentation.

6. Choose a Reliable Roofing Contractor

Unfortunately, storm-chasing scammers show up after natural disasters, offering cheap fixes that won’t last. Protect yourself by hiring a licensed and insured roofing company with a strong reputation in your area.

Look for a contractor who:

✔ Has experience working with insurance claims
✔ Uses high-quality, storm-resistant materials
✔ Offers warranties on both labor and materials
✔ Is locally established with solid customer reviews