After a major hailstorm rolls through Stephenville, the aftermath can be stressful and confusing. Your primary concern is your home, but the thought of dealing with insurance adjusters and complex paperwork is daunting. As roofing experts who have guided hundreds of homeowners through this exact process, we can assure you: with the right partner, it is manageable.
Here is a step-by-step guide to successfully navigating your roof insurance claim.
Step 1: Safety First & Initial Documentation
Before anything else, ensure the area around your home is safe from fallen debris. Then, document everything. From the ground, take clear photos of any visible damage to your roof, gutters, windows, and siding. Photos of the hail itself (with a coin for scale) can also be helpful. This initial documentation is invaluable.
Step 2: Get a Professional Inspection (Before Calling Your Insurer)
This is the single most important step. An insurance adjuster works for the insurance company. A professional roofing contractor works for you. Before you initiate a claim, have a reputable roofer like Thurman Construction perform a thorough inspection.
We will identify all damage—not just the obvious spots—and provide you with a detailed, expert assessment. This report gives you a powerful, fact-based foundation for your claim and ensures no damage is overlooked by the adjuster.
Step 3: File Your Claim & Schedule the Adjuster’s Visit
With our inspection report in hand, contact your insurance company to file a claim. When they schedule their adjuster to visit, let us know. We highly recommend being present for their inspection. Our role is to walk the roof alongside the adjuster, pointing out our findings to ensure their assessment is as comprehensive and accurate as ours. We are your advocate.
Step 4: Understanding the Estimate, Depreciation, and Supplements
Your insurance company will provide an initial estimate that often includes “depreciation” (the decrease in your roof’s value due to age). Typically, you receive an initial payment, and the depreciated amount is released once the work is complete.
Often, the initial estimate may miss certain items required by building codes or specific installation necessities. This is normal. We handle this by filing a “supplement” – a request for additional funds to cover these legitimate, documented costs. This is a critical part of the process where our expertise shines.
Step 5: Choose a Reputable, Certified Contractor
Once your claim is approved, choose a contractor who is not only an expert in roofing but also in the insurance process. Look for a local, certified, and insured company with a long track record of handling claims in your area.
Your Advocate in the Storm
A storm is stressful enough. The recovery process shouldn’t be. By partnering with an experienced roofing contractor, you ensure that your claim is handled correctly, your roof is restored to better-than-new condition, and your stress is minimized.
If your home has suffered storm or hail damage, contact Thurman Roofing immediately. Our insurance claim specialists are ready to provide a complimentary inspection and guide you through every step of the process with confidence.