How a roof claim works, step by step
- Inspection first. Before you file, we do a free inspection so you know whether there's real storm damage. If there isn't, we'll tell you, and you avoid a claim on your record.
- Documentation. We photograph every slope, mark hail hits in test squares, note creased or missing shingles, record dents on vents and gutters, and measure the roof.
- You file the claim. The policy is between you and your insurance company. We give you the documentation to support it.
- Adjuster meeting. We can be on the roof with your adjuster to point out the damage and make sure nothing gets missed.
- Scope and estimate. Once the claim is approved, we go over the insurance scope with you line by line, including items like flashing, ventilation and code-required components.
- The work. We complete the repair or replacement, and you get photos of the finished job.
What we don't do
We're a roofing contractor, not a public adjuster. We don't negotiate your policy or promise a claim will be approved. What we do is make sure the damage is clearly documented and the roof is restored correctly.
Timing matters
Most policies have a time limit for reporting storm damage, and hidden damage gets worse with every rain. After a hail or wind storm in Cape Girardeau, Jackson or Scott County, schedule a free inspection soon. If water is already coming in, call any hour and we'll tarp it first.
Your deductible
Your deductible is your responsibility under the policy, and we'll never offer to waive or hide it. We'll tell you up front what you'll owe.
Why a local contractor helps
Claims can take weeks. Working with a company that has a Cape Girardeau office and a phone answered 24/7 means someone is still here for supplements, final inspections and warranty questions long after the storm crews have left.
What a good claim file includes
Adjusters see a lot of roofs after a big storm. A clear, organized file helps make sure the damage on yours is recognized. Our documentation typically includes:
- Overview photos of every slope and elevation
- Close-ups of hail hits inside marked test squares
- Photos of creased, torn or missing shingles
- Dents on vents, flashing, gutters and downspouts
- Damage to siding, screens and window wraps
- Roof measurements, pitch and the number of existing layers
- Interior water damage, if there is any
Understanding your insurance scope
Once the adjuster writes the claim, you'll get a scope of loss listing what's covered. It can be hard to read. We go through it with you line by line, explain each item, and check whether anything we documented is missing, such as flashing, drip edge, ventilation components or a second layer that has to be removed. If something was missed, we provide the supporting photos so you can ask your insurer to review it.
Replacement cost vs. actual cash value
Many homeowners don't know which kind of policy they have until there's a claim. Under a replacement-cost policy, insurers often pay part of the claim up front and the rest after the work is done. Actual-cash-value policies account for the roof's age and depreciation. We're not your agent and can't interpret your policy for you, but we can help you understand the paperwork so you know what questions to ask your insurer.
Matching and partial damage
Sometimes only a few slopes are damaged. When that happens, we photograph the condition of the undamaged slopes, check whether your current shingle is still made, and show you what a repair would look like next to the existing roof, so you and your insurer can make an informed decision.
Claims for landlords and businesses
Rental owners near Southeast Missouri State and businesses across Cape Girardeau often have several buildings hit by the same storm. We document each building separately so every claim has its own clear file.
Avoiding common claim mistakes
- Waiting too long. Report storm damage within the time your policy allows. Small hail damage gets worse with every rain.
- Signing with a stranger at the door. Take time to check a contractor's local address, reviews and warranty before signing anything.
- Making permanent repairs before the adjuster visits. Tarp and protect the home, but keep damaged materials and photos until the adjuster has seen them.
- Not reading the scope. Review what was approved before work begins, so there are no surprises.
We'll walk you through each step, from the first inspection to final paperwork.
When the claim is denied or underpaid
Sometimes an adjuster finds less damage than we documented. When that happens, we go back over our photos and measurements with you, point out what the scope left out, and give you the evidence you need to ask your insurer for a re-inspection. We'll tell you honestly whether we think the documentation supports it. If it doesn't, we'll help you plan a repair or replacement that fits your budget, with financing available if you need it. Either way, you'll know where things stand.
Keeping you informed
A claim has a lot of moving parts. We keep you updated at each step: when the inspection is done, when the adjuster visit is set, when the scope comes back and when work is scheduled. You'll always know what's next and who to call.
Our Cape Girardeau office
294 Siemers Dr. #1041, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 · 573-343-8993, answered 24/7. See the Cape Girardeau and Southeast Missouri page for every town we serve locally.
Other roofing services in Cape Girardeau
- Roofing contractor in Cape Girardeau, MO
- Roof repair in Cape Girardeau, MO
- Roof replacement in Cape Girardeau, MO
- Storm and hail damage repair in Cape Girardeau, MO
- Gutters in Cape Girardeau, MO
- Residential roofing in Cape Girardeau, MO
- Commercial roofing in Cape Girardeau, MO
Nearby towns we serve
Jackson · Scott City · Sikeston · Perryville · Chaffee · Oak Ridge · Benton · Marble Hill
Frequently asked questions
Should I call my insurance company or a roofer first?
Get a free inspection first so you know whether there's storm damage worth a claim.
Will you meet my insurance adjuster?
Yes. We can be on the roof with your adjuster and share our photos and measurements.
Can you waive my deductible?
No. The deductible is your responsibility under your policy, and we'll tell you up front what you'll owe.
Are you a public adjuster?
No. We're a roofing contractor. We document damage and restore the roof, and your policy remains between you and your insurer.
How long do I have to file a roof claim?
It depends on your policy. Many have a reporting deadline, so schedule an inspection soon after the storm.
What does an insurance scope of loss include?
It lists the work and materials your insurer agreed to cover. We go through it with you line by line.
What if the adjuster misses something?
We give you the photos and measurements so you can ask your insurer to review the missing items.
Do you document claims for rental properties and businesses?
Yes. Each building gets its own documentation file.