Kansas City gets hail most years, and each big storm sends homeowners scrambling to assess damage and deal with insurance companies. You file the claim and deal with your insurer; here's how to go about it.
Step 1: Document Everything
Before you call anyone, take photos and video of all visible damage — roof, siding, gutters, windows, anything hit. Date-stamped photos give you your own record of the damage.
Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company
Report the damage promptly. Policies set time limits for reporting damage and they differ from policy to policy, so check yours or ask your insurer, and don't wait. Get your claim number and adjuster's name.
Step 3: Get a Professional Inspection
Before the insurance adjuster arrives, have a reputable roofing contractor document the damage and provide a detailed estimate. This gives you your own record to compare with the adjuster's assessment.
Step 4: Don't Miss the Adjuster Inspection
When the insurance adjuster comes, be there, with your contractor's photos and written report in hand. That record can point out damage that is easy to miss.
Step 5: Review the Settlement
Some policies pay in more than one payment, for example the actual cash value first and the rest after repairs are done; check how yours works. Review the scope of work carefully — if you think damage was missed, ask your insurer how to request a re-inspection.
Step 6: Choose Your Contractor Carefully
After a major storm, out-of-town storm chasers flood the KC market. Stick with a local contractor who will be here long after the repair is done. Check references, ask what insurance they carry and see the certificate, and get everything in writing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Signing contracts with storm chasers who knock on your door
- Accepting the first insurance estimate without review
- Waiting too long to report the damage
- Not documenting pre-repair damage
Tucci Roofing Co. documents storm damage with photos and a written report you can give your insurer. Contact us for a free estimate.