When a storm hits, your roof often takes the brunt of the impact. From hail to high winds, even minor damage can quickly become costly leaks or structural problems. But here’s the good news: if you act quickly and follow the proper steps, you can confidently file a roofing insurance claim without the headache.
In this guide, we’ll explain the exact steps to take after storm damage and show you how tools like Pitch Gauge make the inspection and documentation process faster, more accurate, and stress-free.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety First
Before inspecting any damage, make sure it’s safe to go outside. Downed power lines, loose shingles, and broken glass can be hazardous. If you notice visible signs of severe roof damage from the ground, stay inside and contact a professional.
Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Take photos and videos from multiple angles inside and outside your home. Capture any visible damage to shingles, gutters, flashing, attic areas, ceilings, or walls.
Pro Tip:
If you’re working with a contractor who uses Pitch Gauge, they can generate PG Roof Reports with detailed roof measurements, damage photos, and annotations in one easy-to-share report. This documentation adds credibility to your claim and makes communication with your insurer much smoother.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your provider as soon as possible to report the damage. Be ready to:
- Provide your policy number
- Share the date and time of the storm
- Describe the visible damage
- Mention that you have contractor documentation (this is where Pitch Gauge-powered reports shine)
Most insurers will schedule a visit from an adjuster to assess the damage. You’re allowed and encouraged to have a roofing contractor present during that inspection.
Step 4: Get a Professional Inspection
A qualified roofing contractor can perform a detailed inspection and help you understand the true extent of the damage, not just what’s visible to the untrained eye.
With Pitch Gauge, contractors can:
- Measure roof pitch, dimensions, and slopes accurately
- Mark up images to show specific areas of concern
- Create a timestamped, professional report for submission
This helps eliminate disputes and accelerates the approval process.
Step 5: Submit Your Claim With Confidence
Include all documentation:
- Photos/video
- Pitch Gauge roof report (if applicable)
- Contractor inspection notes
- Temporary repair receipts (if any)
Please file within the timeline your policy requires, usually within 30 to 60 days of the storm.
Step 6: Don’t Wait on Repairs
If your roof is leaking or unsafe, temporary repairs should be made immediately to prevent further damage. Just be sure to keep receipts, as these are often reimbursable.
Your contractor can use Pitch Gauge to update the roof report with before/after images and notes, helping justify the urgency and cost of temporary fixes.
Final Thoughts
Filing a storm damage roofing claim doesn't have to be overwhelming. When you follow the proper steps and use smart tools like Pitch Gauge for inspection and documentation, you put yourself in the best position for a fast, fair insurance payout.
Looking for a contractor who uses Pitch Gauge?
Ask your roofer if they provide PG Roof Reports to ensure accuracy, professionalism, and a smooth claims process from start to finish.