A severe storm can leave more than just fallen branches and scattered debris. High winds, hail, and heavy rain can damage your roof in ways that aren’t always visible from the ground.
For many homeowners, the hardest part isn’t replacing the roof. It’s knowing what to do first.
Should you call your insurance company?
Should you call a roofer?
How do you know who you can trust?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the entire process with confidence.
Step 1: Stay Safe and Assess the Situation
After the storm has passed, do a visual inspection from the ground.
Look for signs such as:
- Missing shingles
- Pieces of roofing in the yard
- Bent gutters
- Fallen tree limbs
- Water stains on ceilings
- Leaks in the attic
Avoid climbing on your roof yourself. Storm damage can weaken decking and create dangerous conditions.
Step 2: Choose the Right Roofing Contractor
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is hiring the first contractor that knocks on the door.
Instead, look for a company that:
- Is licensed and insured
- Has strong local reviews
- Has an established business in your community
- Provides written inspections
- Communicates clearly
- Will still be around years after your roof is completed
Storm chasers often travel into affected neighborhoods immediately after severe weather. While not every traveling contractor is dishonest, many disappear once the work is complete, making future warranty service difficult.
Choosing a reputable local contractor gives you peace of mind long after your new roof is installed.
Step 3: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
A professional inspection can determine whether your roof has legitimate storm damage.
Your contractor should:
- Photograph damage
- Document affected areas
- Explain findings
- Recommend whether an insurance claim is appropriate
Not every roof qualifies for an insurance claim, and an honest contractor will tell you when filing one isn’t necessary.
Step 4: Filing Your Insurance Claim
If significant storm damage exists, your roofing contractor can help guide you through the insurance process.
Typically, you’ll:
- Contact your insurance company.
- Receive a claim number.
- Schedule an adjuster inspection.
- Meet with your roofing contractor during the inspection.
- Review the insurance estimate.
- Complete the work once approved.
Having your contractor present during the adjuster’s inspection helps ensure all storm-related damage is identified and documented properly.
Will Filing a Roof Claim Increase My Insurance Rates?
This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask.
The answer is: it depends.
Generally, a storm damage claim is considered an “Act of God” claim rather than damage caused by homeowner negligence.
Insurance companies typically evaluate many factors, including:
- Overall claim history
- Regional storm activity
- Market conditions
- The insurance carrier’s underwriting policies
One storm claim alone does not automatically mean your rates will increase.
Can My Insurance Company Cancel My Policy?
Simply filing a legitimate storm damage claim does not usually result in immediate cancellation.
However, insurance companies periodically evaluate risk.
Older roofs that remain unrepaired after significant damage can become a liability.
In many cases, replacing a damaged roof actually helps maintain insurability because your home becomes less susceptible to future water damage.
Every insurance carrier has different underwriting guidelines, so it’s always worth discussing your specific situation with your insurance agent.
What Happens During Roof Replacement?
Once materials arrive, most residential roofs are completed within one to two days.
The process generally includes:
- Protecting landscaping
- Removing old roofing materials
- Inspecting decking
- Replacing damaged wood if necessary
- Installing underlayment
- Installing new shingles
- Installing proper flashing and ventilation
- Thorough site cleanup
- Magnetic sweep for nails
A quality contractor will walk the property with you after completion and answer any remaining questions.
Is My Contractor Still Around After the Job?
A roof warranty only has value if the company behind it remains in business.
Before hiring anyone, ask:
- How long have you been serving this area?
- Who handles warranty calls?
- Do you have a physical office?
- Can I reach someone months or years from now?
The relationship shouldn’t end when the last shingle is installed.
A reputable contractor remains available for future inspections, maintenance, warranty questions, and additional home improvement needs.
Tips to Protect Your Investment
After your new roof is installed:
- Save all warranty documents.
- Keep copies of your insurance paperwork.
- Schedule periodic roof inspections.
- Keep gutters clean.
- Trim overhanging trees.
- Address small issues before they become expensive repairs.
Routine maintenance can significantly extend the life of your new roofing system.
Final Thoughts
Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
The right roofing contractor isn’t just there to replace shingles. They’re there to guide you through inspections, insurance, installation, and long-term support.
At Mallard Roofing, we believe homeowners deserve honest answers, quality workmanship, and a team that will still be here long after the storm has passed.
If your home has recently experienced severe weather, contact our team for a professional inspection and let us help you determine the best next step.
