A storm just hit Charlotte. You suspect your roof is damaged. Now what? Filing an insurance claim for roof damage can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process — from documenting damage to getting your check. And we'll show you the mistakes that cost NC homeowners thousands.
⚠️ Important: Before You Do Anything
Do NOT sign a contract with any roofing company before filing your claim. Storm chasers may knock on your door offering to "handle everything" — some are legitimate, many are not. Get an independent inspection first, file your claim, then choose your contractor carefully.
The 7-Step Insurance Claim Process
Document the Damage Immediately
As soon as it's safe, document everything:
- 📸 Photos/video from the ground — missing shingles, dented gutters, fallen debris
- 📸 Interior photos — water stains, ceiling damage, attic leaks
- 📝 Written notes — date, time, type of storm (hail, wind, etc.)
- 🏠 Property damage — dented siding, broken windows, fence damage (all supports your claim)
Prevent Further Damage (Temporary Repairs)
Your policy requires you to "mitigate" (prevent) further damage. If you have an active leak, cover it with a tarp. Save all receipts for emergency materials — your insurance should reimburse these. Don't make permanent repairs until after the adjuster visits.
Call a Licensed Roofing Contractor for an Inspection
Before calling your insurance company, get a professional inspection from a licensed, local roofer. Here's why:
- • A roofer can identify damage you can't see from the ground
- • Their professional report strengthens your claim
- • They can be present when the adjuster visits (highly recommended)
- • They know what your insurance should cover
At Kaliber Roofing, this inspection is always free. We provide a detailed damage report with photos that you can submit with your claim.
File the Claim with Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company's claims line (the number on your insurance card). You'll need:
- • Your policy number
- • Date and type of damage event
- • Description of visible damage
- • Your roofer's inspection report (if available)
They'll assign a claim number and schedule an adjuster visit (usually within 1-2 weeks).
The Adjuster Visit
This is the most important step. The adjuster inspects your roof and determines what your insurance will cover. Critical tips:
- ✅ Have your roofer present — They can point out damage the adjuster might miss
- ✅ Be home during the visit — Don't let the adjuster inspect alone
- ✅ Don't accept the first offer immediately — Review the scope of work carefully
- ❌ Don't sign anything on the spot — Take time to review with your roofer
Review the Adjuster's Report
Your insurance company will send a settlement offer. Have your roofer review it to ensure:
- • All damaged areas are included
- • Line items match the actual scope of work needed
- • Material quality matches what's required (not cheapest option)
- • Code upgrades are included if required by current NC building code
If the scope is insufficient, your roofer can file a supplement — additional documentation requesting coverage for items the adjuster missed. This is common and often successful.
Choose Your Contractor & Get the Work Done
Once your claim is approved, you choose your contractor (remember — it's your choice, not the insurance company's). Most insurance payments come in two checks: an initial payment to start work, and a depreciation recovery check after work is completed and documented.
5 Costly Mistakes NC Homeowners Make
❌ Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to File
Damage gets worse over time, and some policies have filing deadlines. File within days of discovering damage, not months.
❌ Mistake #2: Not Having a Roofer at the Adjuster Visit
Adjusters look at hundreds of roofs — they can miss damage. Your roofer is your advocate. Having them present typically results in 20-40% higher claim approvals.
❌ Mistake #3: Signing with Storm Chasers
After every major storm, out-of-town contractors flood Charlotte offering "free roofs through insurance." Many do subpar work and disappear. Always use a licensed, local contractor with verifiable reviews.
❌ Mistake #4: Accepting a Low Settlement Without Questioning It
The first offer isn't always the final offer. If your roofer identifies work that wasn't included, a supplement can increase your coverage — often by thousands of dollars.
❌ Mistake #5: Pocketing the Insurance Check
Some homeowners cash the check and don't fix the roof. This voids future coverage for related damage, reduces your home value, and can cause code violations when you eventually sell.
What Does Insurance Typically Cover?
✅ Usually Covered
- • Wind damage (missing/lifted shingles)
- • Hail damage (bruised/cracked shingles)
- • Fallen tree/limb damage
- • Fire and lightning damage
- • Emergency tarping costs
- • Interior water damage from covered events
❌ Usually NOT Covered
- • Normal wear and tear / aging
- • Lack of maintenance
- • Cosmetic-only damage (some policies)
- • Pre-existing damage before your policy
- • Flood damage (requires separate flood policy)
- • Mold from long-term neglect
Understanding Your Deductible
Your deductible is what you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in. In North Carolina, most homeowners have either a flat deductible ($1,000–$5,000) or a percentage-based deductible (1-2% of your home's insured value). On a $300,000 home with a 1% deductible, you'd pay the first $3,000.
Important: It is illegal in North Carolina for any contractor to offer to "cover" or "waive" your deductible. If a roofer offers this, walk away — it's a red flag for insurance fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a roof insurance claim in NC?
Most NC homeowners policies require you to report damage "promptly" or within a "reasonable time." In practice, file within 1 year of the damage event. Some policies have stricter timelines. Check your policy and don't wait — the sooner you file, the better.
Will filing a roof claim raise my insurance rates?
It depends on your insurer and claims history. A single weather-related claim typically has minimal impact. However, multiple claims within 3-5 years can raise rates. That said, if you have $15,000+ in legitimate storm damage, filing the claim is almost always worth it.
What if my insurance company denies my roof claim?
You have the right to appeal. Request a re-inspection, provide additional documentation, or hire a public adjuster. Many initial denials are overturned with proper documentation and a qualified roofing contractor's support.
Should I get a roofing estimate before or after filing the claim?
Before. Having a professional damage assessment from a licensed roofer strengthens your claim. Your roofer can identify damage the adjuster might miss and provide documentation that supports your claim.
Do I have to use the insurance company's preferred contractor?
No — in North Carolina, you have the right to choose your own contractor. Never let an insurance company pressure you into using their preferred vendor if you're not comfortable.
Storm Damage? We'll Handle the Insurance Process
Free damage inspection, detailed documentation, adjuster meeting support, and supplement filing — all at no cost to you. We fight for maximum coverage.
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