Bryn Mawr Emergency Roofing: File Storm Damage Claims Right

Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes

A roof storm damage insurance claim can feel confusing, especially when water is coming in and storms are still in the forecast. Here is a clear, step‑by‑step guide that shows you what to do first, how to document damage, and how to work with your insurer and roofer to restore your home quickly. Follow these steps to avoid delays and maximize your approved scope.

Step 1: Make the Area Safe and Stop Active Leaks

Safety comes first. If you see downed lines, call the utility and 911. Keep people away from sagging ceilings. Move valuables from wet areas. Then stop ongoing water intrusion.

Temporary mitigation protects your home and protects your claim. Most policies require you to prevent further damage, and carriers can deny secondary damage if you do not mitigate. Call a qualified roofer for emergency tarping or temporary repairs right away.

Kanga Roof offers 24/7 rapid response. Our crews secure the roof, address obvious leaks, and plan permanent repairs after the storm.

Step 2: Document Everything Before Cleanup

Thorough evidence speeds approval and reduces back‑and‑forth.

1. Take wide shots of each elevation and slope.
2. Capture close‑ups of missing shingles, lifted flashing, punctures, dents, and hail spatter on soft metals.
3. Photograph interior damage: ceilings, walls, insulation, attic sheathing, and contents.
4. Record the date and time of the storm. Save a weather screenshot if possible.
5. Keep receipts for tarps, dehumidifiers, and emergency labor.

Pro tip: Photograph gutters, downspouts, skylights, chimneys, and vents. Insurers often ask for proof of related component damage.

Step 3: Call a Trusted Local Roofer Before You Call the Carrier

A seasoned roofing contractor can tell storm damage from wear and document it correctly. In the Philly, Trenton, and Allentown corridor, we commonly see nor’easter wind lift, hail pockets near the Lehigh Valley, and wind‑driven rain along the Delaware River. Local knowledge matters.

What your roofer should provide:

1. A storm‑specific inspection with photos and slope‑by‑slope notes.
2. A written scope that separates storm damage from pre‑existing wear.
3. Emergency repair documentation and invoices for reimbursement.

Kanga Roof uses high‑quality materials, follows strict safety protocols, and is licensed and insured in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Step 4: File the Claim and Get a Claim Number

Once mitigation is done and evidence is organized, contact your insurer. Be factual and concise.

• Report the date of loss, type of event, and known areas affected.
• Provide your roofer’s preliminary findings if available.
• Ask about your deductible, ACV vs. RCV, code coverage, and any deadlines.

Write down your claim number, adjuster contact, and inspection date.

Step 5: Meet the Adjuster With Your Roofer Present

Having your roofer on site helps align the scope. Adjusters are professionals, but they may not see every slope or accessory.

Your roofer can:

1. Point out creased shingles, lifted nails, and wind lines that signal replacement, not patching.
2. Show hail bruising on soft metals, ridge vents, and shingles.
3. Explain manufacturer requirements that can trigger full slope replacement.
4. Discuss ventilation corrections and code upgrades when applicable.

Kanga Roof’s inspectors are trained to document to carrier standards and can assist with insurance claim communication when requested.

Step 6: Understand ACV, RCV, and Depreciation

Insurance often pays in stages.

• ACV: Actual Cash Value is the initial payment minus depreciation.
• RCV: Replacement Cost Value is the full approved amount. You receive withheld depreciation after the work is completed and invoiced.
• Deductible: Always your responsibility and subtracted from the total claim.

Ask your carrier to spell out all numbers so you know your out‑of‑pocket costs before work begins.

Step 7: Nail the Scope of Work and Line Items

Approval depends on an accurate scope that reflects how a roof must be built today, not just patched.

Key items that may belong in a storm scope:

1. Underlayment, ice and water protection at eaves and valleys.
2. Starter, ridge, hip shingles, and matching ventilation components.
3. Drip edge, pipe boots, flashing, and counter‑flashing where disturbed.
4. Skylight, gutter, and downspout repair where impacted.
5. Decking replacement if the sheathing is water damaged or out of code.

Kanga Roof uses manufacturer‑approved systems and offers warranties on materials and workmanship. Our straightforward pricing has no hidden fees.

Step 8: Supplements and Re‑inspections

Supplements happen when hidden damage is discovered, such as rotten decking or non‑code flashing. Your roofer should document with photos and request a supplement before proceeding if the change affects price or scope.

Tips for smooth supplements:

• Notify your adjuster immediately with photos and a clear description.
• Reference manufacturer and code requirements when relevant.
• Keep the project moving with written approvals or documented direction from the carrier.

Step 9: Temporary Repairs vs. Permanent Fixes

Emergency tarping and sealants are temporary. They stop water and protect interiors. Permanent repairs should follow quickly once weather allows and the claim is approved.

Why not wait months:

• Tarps degrade in sun and wind.
• Ongoing leaks can cause mold, damaged insulation, and drywall collapse.
• Delays can create coverage disputes if secondary damage occurs.

Kanga Roof schedules permanent repairs promptly after claim approval to restore your roof’s integrity.

Step 10: Code Upgrades, Ventilation, and Manufacturer Specs

Modern roofing must meet current code and manufacturer rules. These increase lifespan and prevent future leaks.

Common upgrades during storm replacement:

1. Balanced attic ventilation with correct intake and exhaust.
2. Ice barrier in appropriate zones and valleys.
3. Proper flashing at walls, chimneys, and skylights.
4. Drip edge at eaves and rakes.

Ask your insurer if your policy includes Ordinance or Law coverage for code items. Your roofer should supply documentation showing why each item is required.

Step 11: Color Matching and Partial Slope Rules

Patches often fail both visually and functionally after wind or hail. Many carriers will replace the full slope when damage or repairs break shingle sealing lines and create mismatches.

Discuss with your roofer:

• Whether shingle availability allows a reasonable match.
• If sealing strip damage extends across a slope.
• If the roof’s age means partial repairs are not reliable.

Step 12: Final Invoicing and Depreciation Release

After work is complete, your roofer submits a final invoice that matches the approved scope. You provide completion documents to your carrier. The insurer then releases depreciation and any supplements. Save all documentation for future resale and warranty records.

Avoid These Common Claim Pitfalls

• Waiting to mitigate leaks. Secondary damage can be denied.
• Calling a door‑to‑door solicitor instead of a certified local roofer.
• Accepting a low scope that ignores flashing, ventilation, or code items.
• Losing receipts for temporary repairs and drying equipment.
• Starting permanent work before the adjuster visit without agreement from the carrier.

Kanga Roof helps you avoid these mistakes with clear, upfront estimates and claim assistance.

Should You Hire a Public Adjuster?

Public adjusters can help on complex or disputed claims. Many homeowners get fair outcomes by pairing a reputable roofing contractor with strong documentation. If you hire a public adjuster, pick a licensed professional and understand their fee structure. In straightforward roof claims, a contractor’s documentation and direct adjuster meeting often resolve the scope.

Special Notes for Commercial Properties

Commercial roofs in our region include TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen. Storm issues often involve seam failure, membrane punctures, and rooftop equipment damage.

What changes in a commercial claim:

1. Safety planning and access requirements are stricter.
2. Work needs to minimize business interruption with off‑hours scheduling.
3. Maintenance records are vital. Many commercial policies ask for proof of care.

Kanga Roof offers flexible maintenance programs with inspections, cleaning, sealing, and scheduled service to reduce emergencies.

Why Maintenance Helps Your Next Claim

Routine maintenance reduces surprises and validates your diligence as a property owner.

• Annual inspections catch lifted flashing and minor leaks early.
• Cleaning gutters and downspouts prevents overflow and ice problems.
• Post‑storm checkups document condition and speed future claims.

Our Overhead Care Club and commercial maintenance plans provide easy scheduling, priority service, and proactive repairs that extend roof life.

How Kanga Roof Streamlines Your Insurance Experience

• 24/7 emergency response to secure your home or business.
• Trained, background‑checked technicians with manufacturer certifications.
• Straightforward pricing and strong warranties on materials and workmanship.
• Claim assistance that aligns documentation with insurer requirements.
• Full‑service capability, including gutters, skylights, and coatings when storms affect more than shingles.

We are recognized with GAF Master Elite Certification and multiple GAF Excellence Awards. We are bonded and insured, and licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Your Quick Roof Claim Checklist

1. Ensure safety. Call utilities for downed lines.
2. Mitigate leaks. Request emergency tarping or temporary repairs.
3. Photograph exterior, interior, and components.
4. Save receipts and record storm details.
5. Call a local certified roofer for inspection and scope.
6. File your claim. Note the claim number and adjuster details.
7. Meet the adjuster with your roofer.
8. Confirm ACV, RCV, deductible, and code coverage.
9. Approve the final scope. Address supplements with photos.
10. Complete permanent repairs. Submit final invoice to release depreciation.

Follow this process to protect your property and secure a fair, timely settlement.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"These guys took care of me in an emergency situation... The work was completed within a few hours. These guys saved me big time!"
–M. E., Emergency Service

"Abe provided prompt service on a Sunday afternoon! He secured and sealed a great room window after a golf ball hit... The team is very thorough."
–Joanne B., Emergency Service

"We had a small, non-emergency leak... they came and fixed it within days! That small problem could have been much worse today!"
–Rachel S., Roof Leak Repair

"Greg and the team... promised us our deposit back because we were dealing with an emergency and it was just too out of our budget."
–Meaghan B., Customer Care

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast should I file a roof storm damage insurance claim?

File as soon as you complete emergency mitigation. Quick filing helps preserve evidence and timelines. Many carriers expect prompt notice, and delays can complicate coverage for secondary damage.

Do I need to tarp the roof before the adjuster arrives?

Yes, if water is entering. Policies require you to prevent further damage. Keep photos and receipts for tarping and any drying equipment so the insurer can reimburse eligible costs.

What is the difference between ACV and RCV?

ACV is the initial payment minus depreciation. RCV is the full replacement value. You receive the withheld depreciation after work is completed, invoiced, and approved by the carrier.

Will insurance pay for code upgrades and ventilation?

Only if your policy includes Ordinance or Law coverage or if the carrier approves specific items. Your roofer should document each required code or manufacturer item during the scope.

Can I choose my own roofing contractor?

Yes. You can select any licensed, insured contractor. Choose a certified local roofer who documents damage clearly, meets the adjuster on site, and follows manufacturer specifications.

Conclusion

Filing a roof storm damage insurance claim correctly starts with safety, fast mitigation, clear documentation, and a roofer who knows how carriers evaluate storm damage. For reliable help in the Greater Philadelphia and Central Jersey area, call A. Brooks Construction, Inc. Kanga Roof at (215) 752-6145 or schedule at https://abrooksconstruction.com/. We are available 24/7 to secure your home and guide you through the claim.

Ready for Help Now?

Call (215) 752-6145 or visit https://abrooksconstruction.com/ to request emergency service or a storm inspection. Get straightforward pricing, certified crews, and claim assistance today.

About A. Brooks Construction, Inc. Kanga Roof

For over 30 years, homeowners and businesses across Greater Philadelphia, Bucks County, and Central Jersey have trusted Kanga Roof for fast, high‑quality roofing. We are fully bonded and insured, GAF Master Elite certified, and known for straightforward pricing and clean, safe jobsites. Our trained, background‑checked crews respond 24/7, use top‑tier materials, and back work with strong warranties. We also assist with storm damage documentation and insurance claims to make recovery easier.