If your roof was recently damaged during a storm, your first question is likely: will my insurance cover it? For homeowners in Michigan and Ohio, the answer is often yes—but there are specific conditions, exclusions, and steps you need to follow to ensure your claim is approved. Understanding your policy and the claims process can save you thousands of dollars and months of frustration.
Understanding Homeowners Insurance Basics
Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies include coverage for certain types of storm-related damage. However, the extent of that coverage depends on your provider, your policy type, and even the age or condition of your roof. In Michigan and Ohio, where severe wind, hail, and snowstorms are common, it’s essential to review your policy annually to make sure you’re protected.
There are typically two types of policies:
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): Pays for the value of your roof at the time of the claim, factoring in depreciation.
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Covers the full cost to replace your roof, regardless of age (within limits), minus your deductible.
Knowing which type you have makes a significant difference when it comes time to file a claim.
What Storm Damage Is Typically Covered?
Homeowners policies often cover sudden and accidental damage, including:
- Wind damage: Uplifted, torn, or missing shingles.
- Hail damage: Pockmarks, bruised shingles, and granule loss.
- Falling debris or tree limbs: Provided it was a result of a covered peril like a windstorm.
- Water damage from storm-created openings: f wind or hail caused an opening that led to water intrusion.
What Might Not Be Covered
Insurance is designed to cover accidental damage—not long-term deterioration or maintenance issues. Here are a few common exclusions:
- Wear and tear or aging: Roofs over 20 years old may receive limited or no coverage depending on your policy.
- Neglected maintenance: Pre-existing damage, mold, or structural issues caused by lack of upkeep.
- Flooding or sewer backups: Usually require separate insurance.
If your insurer suspects the roof was already in poor condition, they might deny the claim or reduce the payout.
Step-by-Step: How to File a Storm Damage Claim
Filing a claim can feel overwhelming—especially right after a storm. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you should do:
- Document the Damage:
- Take detailed photos and videos of all affected areas—roof, gutters, siding, attic, ceilings.
- Note the date of the storm and gather any local news reports that confirm it.
- Call a Professional Roofing Contractor:
- Have a storm restoration expert inspect your roof and provide a written assessment.
- Choose a contractor like Mills Siding & Roofing that is experienced in insurance work and will advocate on your behalf.
- Contact Your Insurance Company:
- Report the damage and initiate a claim.
- Share the documentation from your inspection.
- Meet with the Adjuster:
- Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage.
- It’s best if your contractor is present to ensure all damage is noted and fairly assessed.
- Review the Scope of Work:
- The insurer will provide a document outlining what they’ll pay for (the “scope of work”).
- Your contractor can compare this with their estimate to identify discrepancies.
- Approve and Start Repairs:
- Once you accept the terms and pay your deductible, work can begin.
- Most reputable contractors won’t ask for full payment upfront—just the deductible initially.
Why Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor Matters
Not all roofing companies are created equal. When dealing with storm damage and insurance claims, it’s vital to work with a company that:
- Has a history of working directly with insurers
- Understands how to navigate insurance documentation
- Provides free inspections and accurate, insurance-compliant estimates
- Is licensed, insured, and local (avoids “storm chasers”)
Mills Siding & Roofing has helped thousands of Michigan and Ohio homeowners through the insurance process, ensuring they receive the full value of their coverage and fast, high-quality roof replacements.
FAQs About Roof Insurance Claims
Q: How long do I have to file a claim after a storm?
A: Most policies give you 6–12 months. The sooner you act, the better—especially since damage can worsen over time.
Q: What if my claim is denied?
A: You can dispute the decision. With documentation from a trusted contractor, many denials can be reversed.
Q: Will filing a claim increase my premiums?
A: Possibly, but not always. Storm-related claims are considered “Acts of God” and may not affect premiums the same way as other claims.
Q: What’s the difference between a repair and a full replacement?
A: A repair addresses localized damage. If more than 25% of your roof is affected—or it compromises structural integrity—a replacement is often recommended and may be required by code.
Real-World Example
In Kalamazoo, a homeowner contacted Mills after hail left dents in their metal flashing and knocked granules from their shingles. The damage wasn’t visible from the street, but our inspection revealed enough evidence to justify a full replacement. With our help, the homeowner filed a claim, and the insurance company covered 100% of the roof cost minus the deductible.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until water starts leaking into your attic. Storm damage often starts small and gets worse with every rainfall or wind gust. The insurance process may seem complex, but with the right guidance, it’s completely manageable—and often results in a brand-new roof with minimal out-of-pocket cost.
Need help navigating the insurance process? Contact Mills Siding & Roofing for expert storm restoration services—we’ll inspect your roof for free, meet with your adjuster, and handle the paperwork so you can focus on your home and family.