A severe storm just rolled through your neighborhood. Shingles are scattered across the yard, water is dripping from the ceiling, and the siding looks like it went through a boxing match. Your first instinct is to call your insurance company. But before you pick up the phone, you need to understand when filing a claim makes sense, what the process looks like, and how to avoid the mistakes that lead to denied or underpaid claims.
This guide walks you through every step — from deciding whether to file, to closing out your claim and getting your home repaired.
Not every bit of storm damage warrants an insurance claim. Filing a claim goes on your record, and too many claims in a short period can increase your premiums or even lead to non-renewal. Here is a simple rule of thumb:
If you are not sure, get an estimate from a licensed contractor before calling your insurer. A contractor can give you a realistic range, so you can make an informed decision. Find licensed roofing contractors in Sedalia through Localto.
Most homeowner's insurance policies require you to report damage within a specific window — often called the "prompt notice" requirement. In Missouri, many policies set this at 60 days, but some are shorter. Here is what you need to know:
The bottom line: document the damage immediately and contact your insurer within the first few days after a storm.
Before you touch anything, grab your phone and start recording. Take photos and video of every damaged area — exterior and interior. Get wide shots showing overall context and close-ups showing specific damage. Include timestamps. This documentation is your most powerful tool. For detailed guidance, read our article on what to do before the insurance adjuster arrives.
Your policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. This means:
Keep every receipt. Your insurer is required to reimburse you for reasonable emergency mitigation costs.
Call your insurer's claims hotline — the number is on your declarations page and usually on their website. Have the following ready:
Most insurers will assign a claim number on the spot and tell you when to expect an adjuster.
While waiting for the adjuster, get at least one professional estimate from a licensed local contractor. This gives you a benchmark to compare against the adjuster's assessment. A good contractor will itemize materials and labor, which helps during negotiations. Read our guide on how to hire a contractor after storm damage to avoid common pitfalls.
The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage — usually within one to two weeks of filing. This person works for the insurance company. Their job is to assess the damage and determine what the policy covers. Be present during the inspection. Walk them through every area of damage. Show them your photos, your contractor's estimate, and any receipts from emergency repairs.
After the inspection, your insurer will send you a written estimate and a settlement offer. Review it carefully:
If the estimate falls short, you have every right to push back. This is where your contractor's itemized estimate becomes critical.
If the insurance estimate is lower than what the repair actually costs, your contractor can submit a supplement — an itemized request for additional funds to cover specific items the adjuster missed or underpriced. This is standard practice and happens on the majority of storm damage claims.
Once you agree on a settlement amount, hire your contractor and complete the repairs. Your insurer may issue payment in stages: an initial payment minus your deductible, then a final payment (called the "recoverable depreciation") after repairs are completed and documented.
Understanding the adjuster's checklist helps you prepare:
Knowing why claims fail helps you avoid those traps:
If your claim is denied and you believe the denial is wrong, you have options. You can request a re-inspection, hire a public adjuster to advocate on your behalf, or file a complaint with your state's Department of Insurance.
It is common for a contractor to discover additional damage once work begins — for example, rotted decking under the shingles, or water damage behind the siding that was not visible during the initial inspection. When this happens:
Supplements are routine. Insurers expect them. The key is thorough documentation and clear communication.
Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. For storm damage claims, some policies use a percentage-based deductible (often 1% to 2% of the home's insured value) instead of a flat dollar amount.
Check your declarations page — the deductible amount or percentage is listed there. Some policies have separate deductibles for wind/hail versus other perils.
If you suspect your insurer is acting in bad faith — unreasonable delays, lowball offers, refusal to inspect — read our guide on how to file a complaint with your state's Department of Insurance.
Do not wait for visible leaks to investigate. After every significant storm event, do a walkthrough using our storm damage checklist. Catching damage early gives you the strongest claim and prevents small problems from becoming expensive ones.
If you need a professional inspection, find a trusted roofing contractor in Sedalia through Localto.
Published by SedaliRoofs.com Editorial
This article is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute insurance, legal, or professional advice. Insurance policies vary significantly — always review your specific policy language and consult with your insurance agent or a licensed public adjuster for guidance on your claim.
Ready for a free roof inspection? Submit your request at sedaliaroofs.com/estimate and we'll connect you with a qualified local roofer — no pressure, no obligation.