Insurance Claims Guide:
Step by Step.
Navigate your roof damage insurance claim with confidence. Five clear steps from documentation through repair completion.
Document the Damage
Before you touch anything or start cleaning up, grab your phone and document everything. Take wide-angle photos of the full roof from ground level, then close-ups of any visible damage including missing shingles, dents, cracked flashing, and debris. Video walkthrough is even better.
Inside the house, photograph any water stains on ceilings, walls, or in the attic. Note the date and time of the storm. If you can safely access the attic, look for daylight coming through the decking or wet insulation.
This documentation becomes the foundation of your claim. Insurance adjusters rely heavily on visual evidence, and thorough early documentation prevents disputes about pre-existing conditions versus storm damage.
Use a coin or pen in close-up photos for scale reference. Adjusters find this helpful when assessing hail dent size.
Download the Complete Guide
Keep this claims process reference on hand as a printable PDF.
Insurance Claims Questions
How long do I have to file a roof damage insurance claim?
Most Colorado homeowner policies require you to report damage within one year of the event, but we recommend filing as soon as possible. Delays give insurance companies grounds to question whether damage is storm-related or pre-existing. Contact your carrier within days of the storm, not months.
Will filing a claim raise my insurance premiums?
It depends on your carrier and policy. A single weather-related claim typically has minimal impact on premiums. However, multiple claims in a short period can affect your rates or renewability. Your insurance agent can advise on your specific situation before you file.
What is the difference between ACV and RCV on my claim?
ACV (Actual Cash Value) is the depreciated value of your roof. RCV (Replacement Cost Value) is the full cost to replace it with equivalent materials. Most policies pay ACV upfront minus your deductible, then release the depreciation holdback after repairs are completed and documented.
Need help with your claim?
We provide free inspections and detailed Xactimate estimates to support your insurance claim. No obligation, no pressure.