How Do I File a Roof Insurance Claim After Storm Damage in Madison?

Has a recent storm damaged your roof, and you’re unsure how to file insurance claims?

With Wisconsin’s frequent hailstorms, strong winds, and heavy snow and rain, it’s imperative for Madison homeowners to know how to file roof insurance claims after storm damage. However, not everyone is familiar with the process.

This article offers a step-by-step guide to Madison’s roofing insurance claims process to help you plan and make your experience smooth and hassle-free.

The Insurance Claims Process for Storm Damage in Madison

Knowing what to do when filing a home insurance claim prevents any hitches, enabling you to get the resources to fund your storm damage roof repairs as soon as possible.

Step 1 – Assess the Roof Damage Quickly

Most insurance policies have deadlines before which you must file your claim, after which you become ineligible. So, as soon as the storm passes, examine your roof. The following indications will give you a general idea of how much damage your property has sustained:

• Leaks
• Missing shingles
• Shattered windows
• Dented gutters
• Ice dams

Remember: Don’t climb the roof yourself! Schedule a professional roof inspection following a storm to cover all your bases and avoid accidents.

Step 2 – Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

A quick examination of visible damage to your roof is often not enough. Here’s where a storm damage contractor comes in handy. Some advantages of having a professional inspection in Madison include:

• More comprehensive assessments using state-of-the-art technologies to leave no stone unturned
• Compliant documentation adhering to industry reporting standards to increase your chances for faster approval
• Accurate repair and replacement cost estimates to help prepare your finances and give you a better idea of what to negotiate for

Most importantly, insurance companies typically require a detailed damage report from a professional contractor to make your claim admissible. You don’t have to look far—Storm Guard will assess your roof to strengthen your claims.

Step 3 – File Your Roof Claim

Begin by reviewing your policy to understand your coverage and deductible, and see if specific exclusions prevent payouts. This knowledge allows for smoother roof insurance claims after storm damage because it lets you anticipate potential surprises.

Next, call your insurance company to report the rain, wind, and hail damage. Follow their instructions regarding submitting photos and other documentation. You’ll often find their contact and mailing address in your policy.

Again, accomplishing this step quickly is essential to avoid missing your deadline.

Step 4 – Meet with the Insurance Adjuster

An adjuster from your insurance company will personally visit your property to evaluate its roof for signs of damage. 

Before they visit, it’s crucial not to fix any issues—even leaks—to avoid jeopardizing your claim and interfering with your adjuster’s assessment. If you fix anything, you might receive a lower payout since your property doesn’t look as damaged as you initially claimed.

It also helps to have your contractor present. They will advocate on your behalf, ensuring no damage is overlooked and that your roof’s actual cash value is accounted for.

Step 5 – Approval of Repairs

Did the adjuster approve your claim? If yes, congratulations! They’ll issue your payout to fund necessary repairs and replacements to restore your property.

Having a storm damage contractor in Madison whom you can trust will make the entire process easier. Companies like Storm Guard use quality materials and practices to restore your home’s protection and keep it safe from subsequent storms.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Knowing what not to do when filing a homeowner’s insurance claim drastically increases your chances of getting a much-needed approval, so keep these points in mind:

• Waiting Too Long to File: Remember, your policy states a deadline for filing claims. Start the process as soon as possible to avoid missing it.
• Not Documenting the Damage Right Away: Damage worsens with time, so late documentation makes it impossible for the adjuster to assess the damage accurately.
• Attempting DIY Repairs Before Inspection: It makes damage assessment difficult. You’ll likely get denied or receive a smaller payout than you would’ve gotten otherwise.
• Choosing Out-of-Town Contractors: They’re likely unfamiliar with how Madison’s climate affects homes during storms, leading to less accurate assessments.

Why Choose Storm Guard for Storm Damage Roof Repair

Storm Guard has spent years helping Madison homeowners with insurance claims, so much so that we’ve built a reliable process of free inspections, followed by insurance claims support and quality repairs.

Combined with our local expertise regarding local weather conditions and roofing needs, it’s no wonder we’ve become a go-to contractor in Madison—not to mention our customer-first approach and industry-leading warranties for your peace of mind.

Fund Your Storm Damage Restoration Successfully

Filing a roof insurance claim after storm damage in Madison may feel overwhelming. However, it’s entirely manageable with the proper steps and support from a trusted contractor.

So, don’t hesitate to reach out. Storm Guard Roofing of Madison offers inspections, documentation, and expert repairs to whip your property back into shape. Contact us today for a free inspection and expert claim support!