Dealing with roof damage is stressful enough without the added complexity of navigating an insurance claim. For Marietta homeowners, understanding the claims process can make the difference between a fully covered repair and an out-of-pocket expense that catches you off guard. This guide walks you through every step of filing a roof damage insurance claim in Marietta, GA, so you can get the coverage you deserve and restore your home with confidence.
When Should You File an Insurance Claim for Roof Damage?
Not every roofing issue warrants an insurance claim. Filing unnecessary claims can lead to higher premiums or even policy cancellation. Here is how to determine whether filing a claim makes sense for your situation.
You should file a claim when:
- Your roof has been damaged by a sudden, covered event such as a hailstorm, windstorm, tornado, or fallen tree
- The estimated cost of repairs exceeds your deductible by a meaningful amount
- There is significant structural damage that compromises the integrity of your home
- Multiple areas of the roof are affected by storm damage
You may want to skip filing a claim when:
- The damage is minor and the repair cost is close to or less than your deductible
- The damage resulted from normal wear and tear, which is typically not covered
- You have already filed multiple claims in recent years, which could affect your premiums or insurability
If you are unsure whether your damage qualifies, the best first step is to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof and give you an honest assessment.
Schedule a free roof damage inspection
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Claim
Step 1: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Documentation is the foundation of a successful insurance claim. Begin collecting evidence as soon as it is safe to do so after the storm or event.
Essential documentation includes:
- Photographs: Take wide-angle shots of the entire roof and close-up images of specific damage areas. Photograph from the ground, and if safe, from the attic as well. Capture damage to gutters, flashing, vents, and siding.
- Video: Walk around the property recording video of all visible damage. Narrate what you are seeing for added context.
- Written notes: Record the date and time of the storm, a description of the weather event, and a list of all damage you have observed.
- Previous condition records: If you have photos from a prior inspection or real estate listing that show the roof in good condition, these can be valuable in demonstrating the damage was caused by the recent event.
Save all documentation in multiple locations, such as your phone, computer, and a cloud storage service, so nothing is lost.
Step 2: Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage
Your insurance policy likely includes a provision requiring you to mitigate further damage. This means taking reasonable temporary steps to protect your home, such as:
- Covering damaged areas with tarps or heavy plastic sheeting
- Placing buckets under active interior leaks
- Boarding up broken skylights or exposed openings
Important: Keep all receipts for materials and temporary repair costs. These expenses are typically reimbursable as part of your claim. Do not make any permanent repairs until the insurance adjuster has inspected the damage.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance provider to report the damage and initiate your claim. Have the following information ready:
- Your policy number
- Date and description of the damage event
- A summary of the damage you have observed
- Contact information for yourself and your roofing contractor
Most insurance companies have specific time windows for reporting damage, so do not delay. In Marietta, where spring and summer storms can occur frequently, filing promptly ensures your claim is associated with the correct weather event.
Step 4: Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor
Before the insurance adjuster visits your property, have an experienced Marietta roofing contractor perform their own thorough inspection. This is one of the most important steps in the process, and here is why:
- A professional roofer can identify hidden damage that is not visible from the ground
- They provide a detailed, itemized repair estimate that serves as a benchmark for the adjuster’s assessment
- They can be present during the adjuster’s inspection to point out damage and explain the necessary repairs
- Their expertise ensures that nothing is overlooked or undervalued
Learn about our comprehensive roof inspection services
Step 5: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
When the adjuster arrives to inspect your property, be prepared and engaged:
- Have your contractor present: This is highly recommended. Your contractor can walk the roof with the adjuster and ensure all damage is properly noted.
- Share your documentation: Provide your photos, videos, and written notes to the adjuster.
- Ask questions: Understand what the adjuster is documenting and how they are categorizing the damage.
- Get a copy of the adjuster’s report: Review it carefully and compare it with your contractor’s estimate.
Step 6: Review the Settlement Offer
After the inspection, your insurance company will send a settlement offer detailing what they are willing to cover. Review this carefully with your roofing contractor.
If the offer seems low:
- Compare the adjuster’s line items with your contractor’s estimate
- Identify any damage that was missed or undervalued
- Submit a supplement request with additional documentation and your contractor’s assessment
- If necessary, request a re-inspection with a different adjuster
Many Marietta homeowners receive initial settlement offers that do not fully cover the needed repairs. This is common and does not mean your claim is denied. Working with an experienced roofing contractor who understands the insurance process can help you secure a fair settlement.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Not Filing Promptly
Insurance policies have deadlines for reporting damage. Waiting too long can result in a denied claim. File as soon as you are aware of the damage.
2. Accepting the First Offer Without Review
The initial settlement offer is not always final. Review it carefully against your contractor’s estimate and do not hesitate to negotiate or supplement if the numbers do not match.
3. Hiring an Unreliable Contractor
After major storms in Marietta, out-of-town contractors and storm chasers often canvass neighborhoods offering too-good-to-be-true deals. Always choose a licensed, insured roofing contractor with a proven track record in Cobb County. Check references, read reviews, and verify their local business presence.
4. Making Permanent Repairs Before the Inspection
Completing permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects your roof can compromise your claim. Temporary protective measures are expected and encouraged, but leave the permanent work until after documentation is complete.
5. Not Understanding Your Policy
Know what your homeowners insurance policy covers before you need to file a claim. Understand your deductible, coverage limits, and any exclusions. Some policies have separate deductibles for wind or hail damage, which is particularly relevant in Marietta.
How a Professional Roofing Contractor Helps with Your Claim
An experienced Marietta roofing contractor is your most valuable ally during the insurance claims process. Here is how we help our clients:
- Free damage inspections: We assess your roof at no cost and provide an honest evaluation of whether a claim is warranted.
- Detailed estimates: We provide itemized repair estimates that use the same pricing software insurance companies rely on, ensuring an apples-to-apples comparison.
- Adjuster coordination: We meet with the adjuster at your property and walk through every damage point to ensure nothing is missed.
- Supplement support: If the initial settlement falls short, we prepare and submit supplement documentation to pursue full coverage.
- Quality repairs: Once your claim is settled, we complete the repairs using high-quality materials and proven techniques suited for Marietta’s climate.
Get Expert Help with Your Marietta Roof Damage Claim
Filing an insurance claim does not have to be an overwhelming experience. With the right contractor by your side, you can navigate the process confidently and ensure your home receives the repairs it needs.
If your Marietta home has sustained roof damage from a storm, hail, wind, or any other covered event, we are here to help from start to finish. Contact us today for a free damage assessment, or call (470) 888-0030 to speak directly with our team.
Learn more about our roof repair services and how we help Marietta homeowners recover from storm damage with minimal stress and maximum coverage.