How does submitting a roof claim with my insurance carrier work?
Last updated · Storm damage & insurance
Short answer: You notify your insurer of a loss, document the damage, meet their adjuster (your contractor can often attend), review the scope and estimate, and either repair under the approved amount or discuss supplements / disputes. Only your insurer decides what your policy pays.
Typical sequence
- Safety first. Photograph from the ground. Do not climb a damaged roof.
- Find the storm date. NOAA Storm Prediction Center preliminary reports can help match hail/wind days; your policy still controls coverage.[1]
- Read your deductible (flat dollar or percentage wind/hail deductible) before you file.
- Notify the carrier per your policy — phone, app, or agent. Get a claim number.
- Optional: free contractor inspection to document condition. The FTC warns not to rely on a contractor to tell you what is covered and never to sign over your insurance check.[2]
- Adjuster inspection. The carrier's adjuster (staff or independent) inspects. Many homeowners ask their chosen contractor to be present to discuss scope — that is different from a contractor acting as a public adjuster (restricted in several states).
- Estimate and payment. You may receive an actual cash value (ACV) payment first, with recoverable depreciation held back until work is done under a replacement-cost (RCV) policy.
- Repairs / supplements. Hidden deck damage found during tear-off is often handled as a supplement with new photos and line items.
Deadlines — Florida has a statute; most states follow the policy
Florida law bars a new or reopened property claim unless notice is given within 1 year after the date of loss, and a supplemental claim within 18 months. For weather events, the date of loss is NOAA's verification date (or hurricane landfall).[3] In many other states in our markets, the controlling clock is your policy's "prompt notice" condition, not a single statewide day count — see our state deadlines guide.
This is general consumer information, not legal or insurance advice. Coverage, deadlines, and rates depend on your policy, your insurer, and your state's laws. Check your policy and contact your state's Department of Insurance if you have questions.
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Frequently asked questions
Should I call my insurance company or a roofer first?
Either can work. Many people document with a contractor, then file. Do not let anyone pressure you to sign over benefits. Only the insurer decides coverage.
What is a claim number?
The identifier your insurer assigns when you report a loss. Keep it for all calls, estimates, and supplements.
Does filing guarantee a new roof?
No. Payment depends on covered damage, policy terms, depreciation, and the insurer's decision.
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Sources
- NOAA Storm Prediction Center, storm reports (preliminary). www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/reports/
- FTC, How to Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters. consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scams-after-weather-emergencies-and-natural-
- Fla. Stat. 627.70132 (claim notice deadlines). www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699%2F
Sources checked November 4, 2026. Estimates are not quotes. Roofing, insurance, and legal details vary. Confirm with your contractor, insurer, or attorney.