Call a roofer or your insurance company first after a storm?

By Eric Weddle · 5 min read

When a major storm rolls through, especially one bringing hail or high winds, homeowners are often left wondering what to do next. The natural instinct is to call the insurance company right away. However, roofing experts say that first call can significantly impact how smoothly and successfully your claim is handled.

In a recent podcast discussion following a significant hailstorm that struck the west side of Manhattan on April 28, industry professionals shared practical insights on how homeowners should approach storm damage and insurance claims. One key takeaway stood out: your first call should be to a trusted roofing professional before filing an insurance claim.

Here is why that matters.

Storm damage is not always black and white

The April hailstorm caused widespread damage across many neighborhoods and led to a surge in insurance claims. But as Brandon from Weddle & Sons explained, storm damage assessments are rarely consistent.

"I always tell people I could put ten different insurance companies on their property and I am going to get ten different answers with ten different prices."

Insurance adjusters work for insurance companies, and their evaluations can vary depending on who inspects the roof, what they notice, and how they interpret the policy. Without an experienced roofer involved from the start, important damage can be missed or undervalued.

That is why having Weddle & Sons inspect your roof before filing a claim helps you enter the process informed and prepared.

Why calling a roofer first protects you

Before any paperwork is filed, Weddle & Sons begins with a professional inspection. This accomplishes two important things:

First, it confirms whether a claim is justified

Not every mark or blemish qualifies as storm damage. Filing unnecessary claims can sometimes affect your insurance record. A professional roofer helps you avoid that risk.

Second, it documents damage correctly from day one

If storm damage is present, proper identification and documentation ensure nothing is overlooked when the insurance adjuster arrives.

Once damage is confirmed, Weddle & Sons can guide you through the claim process and even meet the adjuster on site.

The claim process, when done the right way

After a roofing inspection confirms storm damage, the insurance process typically follows these steps:

Inspection with the adjuster

Weddle & Sons prefers to be present when the insurance adjuster inspects your roof. This allows for real-time discussion and helps prevent missed or disputed items.

Reviewing the insurance estimate

If the adjuster determines the roof is a total or partial loss, Weddle & Sons reviews the claim paperwork carefully.

"We will get a copy of that insurance claim and review it to make sure the adjuster did not miss anything."

Homeowners often do not realize when important components, such as ventilation, flashing, or required code upgrades, are missing from an estimate.

Understanding what you actually pay

In most cases, homeowners are only responsible for their deductible. Insurance companies typically issue an initial Actual Cash Value (ACV) check, followed by a second payment after the work is completed.

"The first check plus the second check equals the total cost of the project minus the deductible."

Having an experienced roofer explain this upfront removes confusion and helps homeowners plan financially.

Insurance paperwork can be overwhelming. You do not have to do it alone

For homeowners who have never filed a roofing claim, insurance documents can feel intimidating. Many clients send their paperwork to Weddle & Sons simply saying they do not understand it.

That is normal, and exactly why calling a roofer first makes such a difference.

Weddle & Sons helps homeowners interpret insurance estimates, communicate with adjusters, meet deadlines, and avoid costly mistakes. Instead of navigating the process alone, you have an advocate who handles this every day.

Timing matters more than you think

Most insurance policies allow one year from the date of loss to file a claim. That clock starts on the day the storm hits, not when the claim is filed.

If you suspect hail or wind damage, even if you are unsure, acting early is wise.

"If you have any suspicion that you might have damage from a hailstorm, give us a call."

An early inspection does not obligate you to file a claim, but it protects your options.

The bottom line: start with the right first call

Calling your insurance company first may seem logical, but calling Weddle & Sons first puts you in control.

Key takeaways for homeowners:

• Insurance assessments vary
• Professional roofing inspections provide clarity
• Having a roofer present during the adjuster visit helps ensure accurate damage evaluation
• Most homeowners only pay their deductible
• Filing timelines are strict, and waiting can cost you

If your home was hit by a recent storm and you are unsure what to do next, start with a trusted local expert. Weddle & Sons Roofing is here to inspect, explain, and advocate, so when you do call your insurance company, you are already one step ahead.

Learn about our insurance claim support or schedule a free roof inspection.