When Should You File a Roof Insurance Claim?
Not every roof issue warrants an insurance claim. Insurance covers sudden, accidental damage — not normal wear and aging. Here's when filing makes sense:
File a claim when:
Don't file a claim for:
Filing unnecessary claims can raise your premiums or result in policy non-renewal. When in doubt, get a professional inspection first.
Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately
Time is critical. Insurance companies may question claims filed weeks after a storm event.
Within 24-48 hours of the storm:
Important: Don't make permanent repairs before the adjuster visits. Temporary tarping to prevent further damage is fine — and expected — but document everything before and after.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company's claims line (not your agent) within 48-72 hours of discovering damage. Here's what to have ready:
The insurance company will assign a claim number and schedule an adjuster visit, typically within 7-14 days.
Step 3: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Before the adjuster arrives, have a qualified roofing contractor inspect your roof. This is where having a HAAG Certified inspector matters.
Why HAAG Certification matters for insurance claims:
A professional inspection will identify damage you can't see from the ground — bruised shingles, compromised seals, hairline cracks in flashing — that significantly affects your claim value.
Step 4: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
When the adjuster visits, you (or your roofing contractor) should be present. Here's how to prepare:
Pro tip: If the adjuster only inspects from the ground, politely request a roof-top inspection. Ground-only inspections miss the majority of hail damage.
Step 5: Review the Adjuster's Report
After the inspection, you'll receive a scope of loss document detailing what the insurance company will cover. Review it carefully:
If the adjuster's scope is significantly lower than your contractor's estimate, you have the right to request a re-inspection or file a supplement.
Step 6: Supplements and Disputes
It's common for the initial insurance estimate to be lower than the actual repair cost. This doesn't mean your claim is denied — it means additional documentation is needed.
Your roofing contractor can file a supplement that includes:
Most legitimate supplements are approved when properly documented.
Common Mistakes That Hurt Your Claim
How Shelley Construction Helps with Insurance Claims
We handle the entire insurance process for Utah homeowners:
We don't charge for inspections, and we don't ask for payment until your insurance claim is processed.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Every policy and claim is different. Consult your insurance policy documents and consider speaking with a licensed public adjuster or attorney for specific claim disputes.