Filing a storm damage insurance claim doesn’t have to be stressful if you’re prepared. This checklist walks you through every step — from initial damage discovery to final payment — so nothing is missed and your claim is as strong as possible.
Before You Call Your Insurance Company
Confirm storm activity in your area. Check local weather reports, NOAA storm records, or local news coverage confirming a hail or wind event on the date you suspect damage occurred. This establishes the “date of loss” for your claim.
Document ground-level damage. Walk the exterior of your property and photograph any visible damage to gutters, siding, window screens, outdoor furniture, vehicles, fences, and landscaping. Use your phone’s timestamp feature. These photos establish that storm impacts occurred at your property.
Get a professional inspection. Before filing a claim, know what you’re dealing with. A Roof Report Card from a Haag Certified inspector gives you documented evidence of specific damage, professional categorization of storm-related vs pre-existing conditions, confidence that the damage likely exceeds your deductible, and documentation that meets insurance industry standards.
Review your policy declarations page. Know your coverage type (ACV or RCV), your wind/hail deductible amount, any roof-specific endorsements or schedules, and your filing deadline.
Filing the Claim
Call your insurance company’s claims line (not your agent’s personal number — the main claims number processes faster). Have ready your policy number, the date of the storm, a description of the damage, and your contact information. Ask for the claim number and the adjuster’s name and contact information. Ask about the expected timeline for the adjuster’s visit.
Preparing for the Adjuster’s Visit
Schedule the adjuster and your independent inspector for the same visit if possible. Having a Haag Certified professional present during the adjuster’s inspection ensures every area of concern is examined, technical terminology is communicated clearly, any disagreements about damage classification can be discussed on-site, and the adjuster’s scope of evaluation is comprehensive.
Have copies of your Roof Report Card and ground-level documentation ready to share with the adjuster. This demonstrates organization and seriousness — adjusters handle dozens of claims and respond positively to homeowners who are prepared.
Ensure the adjuster has safe access to the roof and all exterior areas. Secure pets, unlock gates, and clear any obstructions to the base of the roof.
After the Adjuster’s Visit
Review the adjuster’s estimate carefully. Compare it against your independent documentation. Look for any damage documented in your Roof Report Card that is not included in the adjuster’s scope.
If damage was missed or the estimate seems low, you have the right to request a supplement — an additional review of specific areas with supporting documentation. Your inspector can help identify discrepancies.
Understand the payment structure. For RCV policies, you will typically receive an initial payment (the ACV amount minus deductible), then a supplemental payment for recoverable depreciation after repairs are completed and documented. Do not expect the full replacement cost upfront.
Choose your contractor and schedule repairs. Remember: you choose the contractor, not your insurance company.
After repairs are complete, submit documentation of completion to your insurance company to release any held-back depreciation. Keep copies of all invoices, contracts, and completion photos.