How To File A Roof Insurance Claim And Why It Helps To Hire Donnys Home Improvement

Storms in our area can be rough. One bad wind or hail storm can damage a roof that looked fine the week before. When that happens, most homeowners are not sure what to do first, who to call, or what to say to the insurance company.

Here is a clear step by step guide you can follow if you think your roof has storm damage.

Step 1: Make sure everyone is safe

If tree limbs are on the roof or there are power lines down, stay away from the area and call your utility company or emergency services. Do not climb on a damaged roof.

Step 2: Take quick photos and notes

If it is safe, take photos from the ground or from a window:

Missing or broken shingles Exposed wood or torn underlayment Damaged gutters or metal flashing Debris like tree branches on the roof Water stains on ceilings or walls inside the house

These photos help tell the story when you speak to the insurance adjuster.

Step 3: Call a trusted roofing contractor first

You are allowed to have your own contractor inspect the roof before the insurance adjuster comes. In fact, it usually helps your claim.

When you call Donnys Home Improvement we will:

Schedule a prompt inspection Document the roof with detailed photos and notes Explain if the damage looks consistent with wind or hail Give our honest opinion if the roof should be repaired or replaced

This way you are not standing in the driveway guessing when the adjuster arrives.

Step 4: Open the claim with your insurance company

Once we confirm that you likely have storm damage, call the number on your insurance card and open a claim.

When you call:

Have your policy number ready Describe the date of the storm and what you saw Mention that a licensed roofing contractor inspected the roof

Write down the claim number and the name of the person you spoke with. The company will schedule a visit from an adjuster.

Step 5: Meet the adjuster with your roofer if possible

This is where many homeowners feel nervous. You do not have to handle it alone. If scheduling allows, someone from Donnys Home Improvement can meet the adjuster on site.

We can:

Point out damaged areas on the roof Provide our photos and measurements Answer technical questions about installation and codes Make sure the adjuster sees the full picture not just the easy spots

The adjuster works for the insurance company. We work for you.

Step 6: Review the insurance estimate

After the visit, the insurance company will send you a written estimate called a scope of loss. It lists what they are willing to pay for.

Send that paperwork to us and we will:

Compare it to what the roof actually needs Check that materials and labor are priced fairly Look for any missing items like ice and water shield, ridge vents, or code upgrades

If something is missing we can help you request a supplement which is a polite way of asking the insurance company to correct the estimate.

Step 7: Choose your materials and schedule the work

Once the claim is approved it is time to choose your new roof.

With Donnys Home Improvement you get:

GAF Timberline shingles and full roofing system options Color suggestions that match your siding and neighborhood Warranty options including strong manufacturer backed coverage Clear explanations of deposit amount and final payment

We coordinate the install so it lines up with your insurance deadlines.

Step 8: Keep your records

After the job is complete you should keep:

The insurance paperwork Our contract and paid invoice Warranty registration information

This will help if you ever sell the house or have future questions about coverage.

Need help with a roof insurance claim

If a recent storm left your roof looking rough, you do not have to guess what to do next. Donnys Home Improvement handles roof inspections and insurance claim projects every week in NJ and NY.

Call or text 973 333 6364 or email sales@donnysroofing.com and tell me you need help with an insurance claim. We will walk you through every step.