Should You Call a Roofer or Insurance First After a Storm?
Roofer or Insurance First After a Storm? What Should You Do
The storm has passed and everything is quiet again. You walk outside to check on things and notice something isn’t right. Maybe there are shingles on the lawn, or you see a new water spot on your living room ceiling. That’s a stressful feeling. You’re likely wondering how much damage there is and who you are supposed to call first.
Should it be a roofer or your insurance company? Making the right choice can actually save you a lot of time and a big headache. Let’s break down what you should do in a way that’s easy to follow.
Stay Safe First
Before you do anything, make sure everyone is okay. Stay away from downed branches or anything hanging off the roof. If you have water coming inside, put out a bucket or some towels to catch it.
Whatever you do, please don’t grab a ladder and climb up there yourself. Roofs are slippery after a storm and can be unstable if they’re damaged. It isn’t worth the risk.
Why Calling a Roofer First is Usually Smarter
In most cases, calling a local roofer first is your best bet. A professional roofer knows exactly what to look for, even the small things that are hard to see from the ground.
Damage isn’t always obvious. Shingles can be loose even if they look flat. Hail can bruise the materials and cause problems months later. A roofer can find these hidden issues before they turn into expensive leaks.
How a roofer helps you at the start:
- They do a full check of the roof.
- They take pictures of the damage for you.
- They explain what actually needs to be fixed.
- They can tell you if it’s worth filing an insurance claim.
Think of them as your expert witness. They help you get the facts straight before you start the official paperwork.
What Insurance Actually Covers
Most insurance policies are meant to cover “sudden” damage. This is stuff that happens fast and isn’t your fault.
This usually includes:
- High winds ripping shingles off.
- Hail damage.
- Trees or branches falling on the house.
- Debris hitting the roof.
What they usually won’t pay for:
- An old roof that was already wearing out.
- Damage caused by not taking care of the house.
- Leaks that have been there for a long time.
If your roof was already in bad shape before the storm, the insurance company might call it “wear and tear” and deny the claim. A roofer can give you an honest opinion on whether the damage is truly from the storm, which saves you from filing a claim that might get rejected.
When to Call Insurance Right Away
There are times when you should call your insurance company immediately. If a tree crashed through the roof or if water is pouring into your home, you need to get the claim started fast. Even then, you will still need a roofer to come by and figure out how to fix it.
A Simple Plan to Follow
If you aren’t sure what to do, follow these steps:
- Look for the basics: Check for leaks inside or missing shingles from the ground.
- Call a roofer you trust: Ask them to come out for an inspection.
- Get the details: Go over their photos and ask them any questions you have.
- Call insurance: If the roofer finds enough damage, call your agent and give them the details and photos.
Storm damage can feel stressful, especially when you are standing there unsure of what to do next or who to call first. A clear plan can take a lot of that pressure off your shoulders. In most cases, starting with a roofer gives you honest answers and a better understanding of what is really going on with your roof. Once you know the facts, reaching out to your insurance company feels less overwhelming and more straightforward. Your roof protects everything inside your home, from your belongings to the people you care about most. When a storm puts it to the test, taking that first smart step helps you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
If you’re worried about your roof and want a professional to take a look, give Twin Peaks Roofing & Construction a call. We can check things out, answer your questions, and help you figure out the best way to protect your home.