First 24 hours after storm damage
If the roof is actively leaking, protect the interior first. Move belongings, catch water, and call for an emergency tarp if needed. Do not climb on a wet or storm-damaged roof.
Take ground-level photos of visible damage, fallen branches, interior water stains, and any emergency mitigation. These photos can help later if a claim is filed.
Should you file a claim?
File when there is real sudden damage: hail bruising, wind-lifted shingles, missing shingles, tree impact, or water intrusion caused by storm damage. Be cautious if the roof is simply old. Insurance does not replace worn-out roofs just because they reached end of life.
A pre-claim inspection helps you avoid filing a weak claim that may not be worth the deductible or claim history.
- Claim-worthy: sudden wind, hail, branch, or impact damage.
- Usually not claim-worthy: normal aging, old granule loss, poor maintenance.
- Needs inspection: mixed age and storm damage.
What happens during the adjuster meeting
The adjuster inspects the roof and writes an estimate if the claim is covered. A contractor can meet the adjuster, point out documented damage, and later submit supplements for missed items like drip edge, ice and water shield, flashing, decking, or code-required details.
Good documentation matters. Photos, measurements, and a clear written scope make the process less fuzzy.