Filing a roof insurance claim in Florida can feel overwhelming, especially right after a storm when you’re already dealing with damage to your home. Doing it the right way — and in the right order — makes the difference between a smooth claim and a denied one. Here’s exactly how to handle it.
Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately
As soon as it’s safe to do so, take photos and video of any visible damage — from the ground is fine to start. Note the date and, if possible, the specific storm or weather event that caused it. This timestamp matters: Florida insurance policies often have strict windows for reporting storm damage.
Step 2: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Ground-level photos are a start, but they rarely capture the full extent of roof damage. A licensed roofing contractor can get on the roof, document every affected area with detailed photos, and identify damage that isn’t visible from below — this documentation becomes the backbone of your claim.
Step 3: Prevent Further Damage
Most insurance policies require homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after a loss — this usually means emergency tarping over any exposed areas. Keep receipts and photos of any temporary repairs, as these costs are typically reimbursable as part of your claim.
Step 4: File the Claim Promptly
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to open the claim. You’ll be assigned a claim number and, typically, an adjuster who will schedule a time to inspect the damage in person.
Step 5: Meet the Adjuster On-Site
Whenever possible, have your roofing contractor present when the insurance adjuster inspects the roof. Adjusters see hundreds of roofs and don’t always catch every detail — having a roofer there to point out specific damage helps ensure the full scope gets included in the claim, not just what’s obvious from the ground.
Step 6: Review the Insurance Estimate Carefully
Once the adjuster completes their report, the insurance company will send an estimate of covered repairs. Compare this against your contractor’s own assessment. If damage was missed or underestimated, you have the right to request a supplement or a re-inspection.
Step 7: Schedule the Repair or Replacement
Once the claim is approved, you can move forward with your contractor to schedule the work. A good roofing contractor will work directly with your insurance company throughout this process to keep everything aligned and avoid surprises.
Serving Orlando and Central Florida
Dealing with storm damage and need help navigating an insurance claim? Storm Contracting works directly with insurance adjusters across Orlando, Sanford, Lake Mary, Winter Park, and the surrounding Central Florida area. Call us at 888-764-7663 or request a free inspection online.