Everything You Need to Know About Roofing Insurance Claims
By the Allabaugh Construction team · · Updated
A roofing insurance claim is a request you make to your insurance company to pay for damage to your roof. That damage can be anything from a few shingles torn off in a windstorm to a tree limb through the decking. Across New Jersey and Northeast Pennsylvania, most of the claims homeowners deal with follow wind, hail, heavy snow or a limb coming down in a storm.
Before you start, it helps to know what your policy says. Many policies are written to cover damage that is sudden and accidental, while normal wear and tear or neglected maintenance may not be covered. Only your insurance company or agent can tell you what your own policy covers, so ask them directly.
If you're getting ready to file a claim for a roof repair or replacement in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, here is how the process usually goes.
Document the Damage
Start by recording what happened. From the ground, and without climbing on the roof, take clear photos and video of missing shingles, dented gutters, fallen limbs and any debris. Inside, photograph water stains, wet insulation or drips. Note the date of the storm. These records are yours, and they help your insurer see what happened.
A licensed roofer can add to that record. When we inspect a storm-damaged roof, we document storm damage with photos so you have a clear picture of what's on the roof and what it will take to fix it.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company promptly. Timing matters, because many policies have deadlines for reporting damage. Give them the information and documentation they ask for, answer their questions, and follow their instructions.
If the roof is actively leaking, ask your insurer what temporary protection they expect. Tarping or other temporary repairs that keep water out can help prevent further damage while the claim moves forward.
Prepare for the Adjuster's Inspection
After you file, your insurance company will usually send an adjuster to inspect the roof. It often helps to have your roofer there. We can meet your adjuster on site, walk the roof, and point out the damage we documented, so nothing gets missed during the inspection.
To be clear about roles: the adjuster works for the insurance company, and the claim is between you and your insurer. A roofing contractor doesn't file claims, negotiate settlements or interpret your coverage. In both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, a person who negotiates a claim on a homeowner's behalf has to be licensed by the state as a public adjuster.
Review the Insurer's Decision
If your claim is approved, your insurance company will send you its decision and settlement details. Read them carefully and compare the scope of work against your roofer's written estimate. If something doesn't line up, or you don't understand a line item, take your questions to your insurance company or agent. They are the ones who can explain your policy and their decision.
If Your Claim Is Denied
Insurers sometimes deny roof claims, for example when they decide the damage came from age, lack of maintenance or a pre-existing problem. If that happens, ask your insurer for the reason in writing and ask what their appeal or review process is. If you want someone to represent you, a licensed public adjuster or an attorney is the right professional for that, not your roofer.
Either way, the roof still needs attention. We can give you a straightforward repair or replacement estimate so you know your options.
Choose the Right Contractor
The contractor you pick matters as much as the claim. Look for a roofer who:
- Is registered as a home improvement contractor in your state. Ours are NJ HIC #13VH09734600 and PA HIC #PA162561.
- Carries insurance and will show you proof.
- Gives you a written estimate before work starts.
- Is honest about their role and doesn't promise to "handle" your claim or cover your deductible.
Our storm damage roof repair crews work across Mercer County, NJ and Luzerne County, PA, and we're a GAF-certified contractor.
Prevent the Next Claim
The easiest claim is the one you never have to make. Regular roof maintenance, quick repairs of small problems and clean gutters all help your roof hold up through NJ nor'easters and NEPA snow. When it's time for a new roof, upgrading to architectural shingles installed by a certified crew gives you a sturdier roof for the next storm season.
Get a Storm Damage Inspection
If a storm has hit your roof, we'll inspect it, document storm damage with photos, give you a written estimate, and can meet your adjuster on site. Call our New Jersey office at (609) 477-0487 or our Pennsylvania office at (814) 330-4897, or request a free estimate.