Here's a conversation we hear a lot. A homeowner files a storm claim, and somewhere along the way someone at the insurance company mentions a contractor they "work with" or sends over a preferred list. A lot of people take that to mean they have to use one of them.
You don't. It's your house. You choose who works on it.
What a preferred contractor program really is
Some insurers run programs with contractors who've agreed to their pricing and paperwork. For some homeowners that's fine. But it's optional. A standard homeowners policy pays for covered damage. It doesn't require you to hire the insurer's pick to get paid. If anyone tells you otherwise, ask them to show you where it says that in your policy, in writing. If you still have questions, call your state insurance department.
Why it matters who you pick
The contractor you choose is the one who will be up on the roof with the adjuster pointing out damage, writing the estimate, and standing behind the work for years afterward. You want someone working for you.
- They inspect for you. Your roofer's job is to document every bit of storm damage on your roof, not to keep the claim small.
- They meet the adjuster. Having your own roofer on the roof during the adjuster's visit is one of the best ways to make sure nothing gets missed.
- They warranty the work. When a leak shows up three years later, you want to call a company that's still around. Ours carries a lifetime workmanship warranty.
What a storm damage inspection should include
Whoever you choose, a real storm inspection looks like this:
- Ground check. Gutters, downspouts, the air conditioner, siding, windows and screens for signs of hail and wind.
- On the roof, every slope. Bruised or cracked shingles, granule loss, lifted or creased tabs, broken seal strips, missing shingles.
- Metal and penetrations. Vents, pipe boots, flashing, chimneys, skylights and ridge caps.
- The attic. Water stains, wet insulation, daylight where it shouldn't be.
- A written report. Photos of every damaged area, marked and labeled, with roof measurements. If someone just says "you need a new roof" without photos, keep looking.
We do these inspections for free across Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Indiana and western Kentucky. If we don't see storm damage, we'll tell you.
How to choose a good storm contractor
- A real local address, not a hotel or a P.O. box.
- Proof of insurance and the licenses your city or state requires.
- Reviews you can check and references you can call.
- Manufacturer certifications they can back up.
- No pressure to sign the same day, and no offer to "cover" your deductible. In Missouri and Illinois that offer is illegal.
What happens when you pick us
We inspect the roof and give you the photo report. If there's storm damage, you file the claim with your insurer. We meet the adjuster on the roof and show what we found. Once the claim is approved, we do the work with our own crews and back it with our lifetime workmanship warranty. We're roofers, not public adjusters, so we don't negotiate your claim, but we make sure the damage gets seen.
Family-owned since 1947. Call 1-800-564-6232, answered 24/7, or fill out the form for a free inspection.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to use my insurance company's preferred roofer?
No. Preferred contractor programs are optional. You can hire any contractor you choose.
Will my insurance still pay if I use my own roofer?
Your insurer pays the covered claim based on your policy, not on which contractor you hire.
Can my own roofer meet the insurance adjuster?
Yes. You can have your roofer there during the adjuster's inspection to point out damage.
How much does a storm damage inspection cost?
John Beal Roofing inspects storm-damaged roofs for free and gives you a photo report.
More storm damage help
- Roof claim denied? Here is what to do next
- How to request a roof re-inspection from your insurance company
- Know your rights as a consumer after storm damage
- Storm and hail damage repair
- Roof insurance claim help
Get a free storm damage inspection. Call 1-800-564-6232, answered 24/7, or use the form at the top of this page.