How to Navigate the Insurance Claim Process After a Storm

The Aftermath of a Midwest Storm

Living in Nebraska and Iowa means dealing with severe weather. When a major hailstorm or high-wind event hits Omaha, Council Bluffs, or the surrounding communities, the damage to your home's exterior can be extensive. Navigating the insurance claim process can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps can make a world of difference.

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Assess the Damage Safely

Before doing anything else, make sure your family is safe. Once the storm has passed, you can do a visual inspection from the ground. Look for missing shingles, dented gutters, broken windows, or damage to your siding. Do not climb onto your roof. Roofs are dangerous, especially after a storm when they may be slippery or structurally compromised.

Step 2: Call a Trusted Local Roofing Contractor

Before calling your insurance company, it is highly recommended to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your property. An experienced contractor will:

• Provide a comprehensive, free inspection to document all damage.
• Take detailed photos and notes that will be crucial for your insurance claim.
• Determine if the damage is significant enough to warrant filing a claim. (Filing a claim for minor damage that falls below your deductible can unnecessarily impact your insurance record.)
• Provide temporary emergency repairs, like tarping, to prevent further interior damage.

Step 3: File the Claim

Once your contractor confirms that you have storm damage that exceeds your deductible, contact your insurance company to file a claim. Be prepared to provide the date and time of the storm, a general description of the damage, and the temporary repairs that have been made.

Step 4: The Adjuster Meeting

Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect your property and determine the scope of the damage. This is a critical step. We strongly recommend having your roofing contractor present during the adjuster's inspection.

At Front Porch Roofing, we routinely meet with insurance adjusters on behalf of our clients. We ensure that all damage is properly identified and accounted for in the adjuster's report, from the roof and gutters to the siding and windows.

Step 5: Review the Estimate and Scope of Work

After the inspection, your insurance company will provide an estimate (often called a Statement of Loss). This document outlines what they are willing to pay to repair or replace your damaged property. Review this document carefully with your contractor. If the adjuster missed any damage or if current local building codes require additional work, your contractor can file a "supplement" to request additional funds.

Step 6: Choosing the Right Materials

Once the scope of work is approved, it's time to choose your new roofing materials. This is an excellent opportunity to upgrade. For example, many homeowners choose to upgrade to Class 4IR (Impact Resistant) shingles. While they cost a bit more upfront, they offer superior protection against future hailstorms and can often qualify you for a significant discount on your homeowner's insurance premiums.

Step 7: The Build and Final Payment

Your contractor will schedule the installation. Most roof replacements are completed in one to two days. Once the work is finished, your contractor will submit a final invoice to the insurance company, confirming that the work was completed according to the agreed-upon scope. The insurance company will then release the final depreciation payment, allowing you to pay your contractor in full.

Why Work With Front Porch Roofing?

We treat you like our next-door neighbor. We've helped hundreds of homeowners navigate the complex insurance claim process. We handle the paperwork, communicate directly with your insurance company, and ensure you get the quality roof you deserve without the typical stress and hassle.