Your step-by-step guide to assessing damage and working with your insurance company.
Virginia weather can be unpredictable. From severe thunderstorms with high winds to hail and even hurricanes, our roofs take a beating. If a storm has recently passed through, here's what you need to do to protect your home and navigate the insurance claims process.
Before you inspect your property, make sure it's safe to do so. Wait until the storm has completely passed, and be cautious of downed power lines, standing water, and unstable structures. If your home has sustained significant damage, consider staying with family or friends until a professional can assess the situation.
Once it's safe, document everything. Use your phone to take photos and videos of:
The more documentation you have, the smoother your insurance claim will go.
Call your homeowner's insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim. They will assign an adjuster to assess the damage. Be prepared to provide:
While the insurance adjuster will provide their assessment, it's wise to have a roofing professional there as well. At Bailey Hughes, we offer free storm damage assessments and can meet with adjusters on your behalf. We'll provide a detailed report of the damage to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Once you have estimates from both the insurance adjuster and your roofing contractor, review your options carefully. Remember:
To prevent further damage while you're waiting for your claim to be processed, consider temporary repairs such as tarping damaged areas. Most insurance policies cover these emergency measures. Keep receipts for any materials you purchase — these are typically reimbursable.
We've helped hundreds of Virginia homeowners navigate the storm damage claims process. Here's how we can help:
Don't wait — storm damage rarely improves with time. The sooner you address it, the better. Contact us today for a free assessment.