Storm Damage 101: How to Handle Insurance and Roof Repairs
- My Guys PGH
- Jul 14
- 4 min read
Western Pennsylvania weather can be unpredictable. One minute it's sunny, the next you're dealing with strong winds, driving rain, hail, or even falling tree limbs. If your home has recently taken a hit from a storm, your roof may be the first place to show signs of damage—and it's also your home's first line of defense.
Many homeowners feel overwhelmed after a storm, unsure of what steps to take with roof repairs and insurance claims. Don’t worry. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to protect your home and your wallet after storm damage.
🛑 Step 1: Assess the Damage Safely
After the storm passes, it's natural to want to assess your home immediately—but safety comes first.
Do this instead:
Look around the exterior from the ground. Scan for:
Missing or curled shingles
Pieces of flashing or gutter debris
Tree limbs on the roof
Check the attic or ceilings for:
Water stains
Damp insulation
Active drips or sagging drywall
⚠️ Avoid climbing on the roof yourself, especially if it may be slick, unstable, or structurally compromised.
📸 Step 2: Document Everything
When it comes to insurance, documentation is everything.
Take clear photos and videos of all visible damage
Include close-ups and wide shots from different angles
Don’t forget to photograph the interior if water has leaked through
If you’ve had to make emergency fixes (like tarping the roof), document those steps too.
📝 Pro Tip: Save receipts for any cleanup or temporary materials you purchase. Your insurance may reimburse you.
📞 Step 3: Contact a Roofing Contractor for an Inspection
Before you call your insurance company, schedule a professional roof inspection with a trusted contractor—like My Guys PGH.
Why? Because:
Your roofer knows what to look for, including subtle damage insurers may miss
A pro can identify the difference between storm damage and normal wear
You'll receive a detailed inspection report to support your claim
At My Guys PGH, we offer storm damage roof inspections in the Pittsburgh area—fast, honest, and thorough.
📋 Step 4: File Your Homeowners Insurance Claim
Once you've got the inspection results, it’s time to file a claim with your insurance provider. Follow these tips to make the process as smooth as possible:
What You’ll Need:
Your policy number
Date and time of the storm
Description of the damage
Photos/videos
Inspection report from your contractor
Most insurers offer online or mobile claim filing, which can speed things up. Be as detailed as possible and report the claim promptly, as waiting too long can impact your eligibility.
🕵️ Step 5: Prepare for the Insurance Adjuster Visit
Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect your roof and verify the claim.
Before they arrive:
Share your documentation (photos, inspection report, receipts)
Have your roofing contractor on-site if possible
Be available to answer questions and walk them through the damage
Having a contractor present ensures you have someone in your corner who understands roofing terminology and can explain technical issues the adjuster might overlook.
💬 Step 6: Review the Settlement Offer
Once the adjuster completes their report, you’ll receive a claim settlement offer. This may include:
Actual Cash Value (ACV): What your roof is worth today, accounting for depreciation
Replacement Cost Value (RCV): What it would cost to replace your roof at current market prices
Some policies only cover ACV, while others offer full RCV reimbursement once work is completed. Review your policy closely or ask your contractor to help interpret it.
At My Guys PGH, we’ll gladly review your settlement documents to ensure your offer is fair.
🔧 Step 7: Schedule Roof Repairs or Replacement
Once your claim is approved, it’s time to get to work. Choose a roofing contractor who:
Is licensed, insured, and experienced in storm damage
Works directly with your insurance company
Offers clear, written estimates and timelines
Uses high-quality materials that match or exceed your current roof
Our team at My Guys PGH can repair or replace asphalt shingle or metal roofing systems, using top-tier materials that stand up to the Pennsylvania climate.
💡 Bonus: What Storm Damage Looks Like
Not all storm damage is obvious. Here’s what to look for after specific events:
💨 Wind Damage:
Missing shingles
Lifted or curled edges
Exposed nails or roof deck
🧊 Hail Damage:
Dents in shingles or metal roofing
Pockmarks or bruising
Granule loss on asphalt shingles
🌲 Debris Damage:
Cracked or broken shingles
Impact holes
Blocked gutters or damaged flashing
These issues might not cause a leak right away—but left unrepaired, they can weaken your roof’s structure and lead to costly problems.
❓FAQs About Storm Damage & Roofing Insurance
Will my insurance cover a full roof replacement?
If the storm caused widespread or significant damage, many policies do cover full replacement. It depends on your policy and the adjuster's findings.
How long does the process take?
The full process—from inspection to repairs—can take 2–4 weeks, depending on weather and insurance response times.
What if my claim is denied?
You can dispute the decision. Having your contractor provide additional documentation or a second opinion can help strengthen your case.
🏡 Trust My Guys PGH for Storm Damage Roofing in Western PA
Storm damage is stressful—but you don’t have to handle it alone.
At My Guys PGH, we’ve helped hundreds of Pittsburgh-area homeowners recover quickly after hail, wind, and heavy rain. From emergency inspections to insurance documentation to professional repairs, we’ll walk with you every step of the way.
✅ Licensed & Insured Roofing Contractors
✅ Asphalt & Metal Roof Experts
✅ We Work with All Major Insurance Carriers
✅ Locally Trusted in Pittsburgh & Surrounding Areas
👉 Don’t wait—if you suspect roof damage, get help now.
Contact My Guys PGH today for a free inspection and fast, reliable roof repair after the storm.
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