Don’t Let Storm Damage Overwhelm You. Understand the Process and Protect Your Investment.
Here in Eagle and across the Treasure Valley, we’re no strangers to severe weather. A sudden hailstorm or powerful windstorm can leave a trail of destruction, with your home’s roof often taking the biggest hit. Discovering that your roof is damaged is stressful enough, but the process of filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming and confusing. Many homeowners aren’t sure where to start, what to say to their insurance company, or how to ensure they receive a fair settlement.
This guide is here to help. At Team Construction, we don’t just repair and replace roofs; we help our neighbors navigate the complexities of the roof insurance claim process from start to finish. We believe an informed homeowner is an empowered one.
First, Identify the Damage (Safely!)
After a storm, your first priority is safety. Never climb onto a potentially damaged roof. Instead, walk around your property and look for these tell-tale signs of wind and hail damage from the ground.
Signs of Hail Damage
- Dents on gutters, downspouts, and roof vents.
- Bruises or dark spots on asphalt shingles.
- Cracked or broken tiles or shingles.
- An accumulation of shingle granules in your gutters.
Signs of Wind Damage
- Missing shingles entirely from your roof.
- Shingles that are curling, lifted, or creased.
- Loose debris on or around your property.
- Visible water leaks or stains on your interior ceilings.
The Step-by-Step Roof Insurance Claim Process
Following a structured approach is the key to a stress-free and successful claim. Here are the essential steps every Eagle homeowner should take.
Step 1: Document Everything Thoroughly
Before you make any calls, document the damage. Take clear, well-lit photos and videos of everything you identified during your ground inspection. Capture wide shots of the roof and close-ups of specific problem areas like dented gutters or missing shingles. Good documentation is one of the most critical factors for a successful claim. Note the date and time the storm occurred.
Step 2: Review Your Insurance Policy
Take a moment to review your homeowner’s insurance policy. Understand your coverage for “Acts of God,” such as wind and hail storms. Pay close attention to your deductible—this is the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket before your coverage begins. Some policies have a separate, higher deductible for wind or hail damage.
Step 3: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
This is a crucial step. Before contacting your insurance company, have a reputable, local roofing contractor perform a full inspection. An experienced roofer can identify damage that is invisible from the ground and provide a detailed report and estimate. This gives you a professional assessment to compare with the insurance adjuster’s findings. Team Construction offers a complimentary roof inspection specifically for storm damage.
Step 4: File Your Claim Promptly
With your documentation and professional estimate in hand, contact your insurance provider to start the claim. You’ll be assigned a claim number and an adjuster. Be prepared to provide your policy number, a description of the damage, and the date of the storm. It’s important to act quickly, as most policies have a time limit for filing.
Step 5: Meet with the Adjuster
The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. It is highly recommended to have your trusted roofing contractor present during this meeting. Your roofer can point out all the documented damage, ensuring nothing is overlooked and advocating on your behalf. They speak the same language as the adjuster and can help ensure a fair assessment.
Step 6: Complete Your Roof Repair or Replacement
Once your claim is approved, you will receive a settlement from the insurance company. You can then schedule the necessary roof repairs or replacement. Choose a contractor who uses quality materials and provides a solid warranty for their work.
Why a Local Eagle, ID Roofing Contractor Matters
When dealing with storm damage, it’s tempting to hire the first contractor who knocks on your door. However, choosing a local, established company like Team Construction offers significant advantages. We are deeply familiar with Eagle’s specific weather challenges and local building codes. Our reputation is built right here in the Treasure Valley, so your satisfaction is our top priority. We’re not just a company; we’re your neighbors.
As Eagle roofing contractors with extensive experience in insurance restoration, we understand the entire process. We know how to document damage correctly and communicate effectively with insurance carriers to ensure your claim is handled fairly and efficiently, from the initial inspection to the final repair.
Suspect Storm Damage? Don’t Wait.
Delaying roof repairs can lead to more extensive and costly problems down the road. Protect your home and get the peace of mind you deserve. Contact the experts at Team Construction today for a free, no-obligation roof inspection and insurance claim assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will filing a claim for storm damage raise my insurance premium?
In most cases, claims for storm damage are considered “Acts of God” and should not result in an individual premium increase. However, widespread storm events in a region can sometimes lead to overall rate adjustments for everyone. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider for specifics.
What if my insurance claim is denied or the settlement is too low?
If your claim is denied or underpaid, you have the right to appeal the decision. This is where having a professional roofing contractor’s detailed report and estimate is invaluable. We can help you provide additional documentation to support a supplemental claim or appeal.
How long do I have to file a claim after a storm in Idaho?
Most insurance policies require that you file a claim within a specific timeframe, often up to one year from the date of the storm. However, it is always best to act as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to your home and to avoid potential claim denials due to delay.
Do I have to use the contractor my insurance company recommends?
No, you have the right to choose your own licensed and insured contractor. It’s your home, and you should be comfortable with the team performing the work. Choosing a local, trusted Boise roofing company ensures you have an advocate working for your best interests, not the insurance company’s.
Glossary of Terms
Adjuster
A professional sent by the insurance company to inspect property damage and determine the value of the loss.
Deductible
The amount of money you must pay out-of-pocket for a covered loss before your insurance policy’s coverage begins.
Depreciation
The decrease in a property’s value over time due to age and wear and tear. Insurance companies often factor this into a claim settlement.
Claim
A formal request made by a policyholder to an insurance company for coverage or compensation for a covered loss or policy event.
