How to File a Roofing Insurance Claim—Tips for NJ Homeowners
When a storm hits or an unexpected leak shows up, your first thought is likely, “Will insurance cover this?” If you’re a New Jersey homeowner dealing with roof damage, filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming. The process is full of technical details, paperwork, and deadlines—and one small mistake can cost you thousands.
The good news? With the right approach, you can make the process smoother, maximize your claim, and get your roof repaired or replaced without unnecessary stress. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to file a roofing insurance claim in NJ—plus share expert tips to avoid common pitfalls.
Step 1: Assess the Damage Quickly but Safely
The first step after a storm or sudden roof damage is to check your home’s condition as soon as possible. But don’t climb up on the roof yourself—it’s dangerous and unnecessary. Instead:
Start from the ground: Walk around your home and look for visible signs like missing shingles, broken gutters, or fallen branches.
Check your attic and ceilings: Look for water stains, leaks, or damp insulation.
Take clear photos: Document everything you see. These will be essential for your claim.
Why act fast? Most insurance companies require prompt reporting of damage. Waiting too long can lead to denied claims or reduced payouts.
Step 2: Review Your Insurance Policy
Before making any moves, read your homeowner’s insurance policy carefully. Every policy is different, and you need to know:
What’s covered: Does your policy cover wind damage, hail, or water intrusion?
What’s excluded: Some policies exclude damage caused by lack of maintenance or wear and tear.
Deductible amount: How much will you need to pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in?
If the language feels confusing (and let’s be honest, most policies are), you can ask your insurance agent for clarification—or consult a professional roofing contractor who’s experienced with insurance claims.
Step 3: Contact a Trusted Roofing Contractor
Here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: Before calling your insurance company, you should contact a reputable roofing contractor.
Why? Because:
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their goal is often to minimize payouts.
A qualified contractor will inspect your roof thoroughly and provide an honest estimate.
They can point out storm-related damage you might miss, which ensures you don’t leave money on the table.
At Hidalgo Brothers Roofing, we help NJ homeowners document damage and provide detailed reports that make insurance adjusters take your claim seriously.
Step 4: File Your Claim with Complete Documentation
Once you have all your evidence (photos, inspection report, repair estimate), it’s time to file your claim. Most insurance companies allow you to do this online or by phone.
When submitting your claim:
Include all relevant details: Date of damage, type of storm (if applicable), and visible issues.
Attach photos and reports: The more proof you have, the stronger your claim.
Keep copies of everything: Emails, claim numbers, adjuster notes—organize it all in one folder.
Pro Tip: Always communicate in writing when possible. If you speak with an adjuster by phone, follow up with an email summarizing the conversation.
Step 5: Prepare for the Adjuster’s Visit
After filing, your insurance company will schedule an adjuster inspection. This is a critical step because the adjuster’s report determines how much money you’ll receive.
Here’s how to make sure your claim is handled fairly:
Have your contractor present: This is one of the best ways to ensure the adjuster doesn’t miss damage.
Point out all problem areas: Walk with them and show the issues you’ve documented.
Stay professional but firm: If they downplay damage, politely insist on a thorough check.
An experienced roofing company like Hidalgo Brothers Roofing can advocate for you during this process—because we know what legitimate storm damage looks like and how it should be repaired.
Step 6: Review the Claim Settlement Carefully
Once the inspection is done, the insurance company will send you a claim settlement offer. Before signing anything:
Compare it with your contractor’s estimate: If the payout seems too low, you can dispute it.
Ask about depreciation: Some policies pay “actual cash value” (depreciated amount) first and release the remaining funds after work is complete.
Don’t settle for less than what’s needed for proper repairs: Cutting corners now can lead to bigger problems later.
Step 7: Schedule Repairs Promptly
Finally, once your claim is approved, schedule your roof repair or replacement as soon as possible. Delaying repairs can cause more damage—and some insurers may not cover additional issues that happen after the initial claim.
At Hidalgo Brothers Roofing, we handle everything from start to finish—so you don’t have to stress. We’ll work with your insurance company, keep you updated, and make sure your roof is restored to top condition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before we wrap up, let’s go over a few costly mistakes homeowners often make:
Waiting too long to file: Insurance companies love delays because they can use them as an excuse to deny claims.
Not reading the policy: Surprises are fun for birthdays, not insurance claims.
Accepting the first offer without question: Negotiation is often part of the process.
Trying to DIY the repairs: Insurance will not cover poor workmanship, and you could void your policy.
Final Thoughts
Filing a roofing insurance claim in New Jersey doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With prompt action, proper documentation, and the right roofing contractor by your side, you can get your roof fixed quickly—and with minimal out-of-pocket cost.
If you need help filing a claim or repairing your roof, Hidalgo Brothers Roofing is here for you. We’ve helped countless NJ homeowners navigate the insurance process and restore their homes after storm damage.
📞 Call us today at 973-525-6835 or visit Hidalgo Brothers Roofing to schedule your free inspection.