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Insurance Assistance for Roofing Claims

How to Tell if You Has Storm Damage

How to Tell If You Has Storm Damage

Storm damage isn’t always obvious. In many cases, the most serious problems start small and quietly get worse over time. The goal of this page is to help you understand what to look for, what’s normal, and when it makes sense to dig a little deeper.

Storms That Commonly Cause Damage

You’re more likely to have damage if your home was recently exposed to:

  • Hail (even small hail, depending on wind speed)

  • High winds or straight-line winds

  • Tornado activity nearby

  • Heavy rain following wind or hail

  • Fallen branches or flying debris

Even if your roof “looks fine” from the ground, damage can still be present.

Signs of Storm Damage You Can See From the Ground

You don’t need to climb on your roof to spot early warning signs. Start here:

1. Shingles on the Ground

If you notice shingles, shingle tabs, or granules in your yard, driveway, or gutters, that’s often a sign the roof took a hit.

2. Missing or Lifted Shingles

Look for areas where shingles appear uneven, raised, or completely missing—especially along ridges, edges, and valleys.

3. Dented Gutters, Downspouts, or Vents

Metal components around your home act like “storm sensors.” If they’re dented, your roof may be damaged too.

4. Exposed Nails or Dark Spots on the Roof

From the ground, you might notice shiny nail heads or darker patches that weren’t there before. These can indicate shingle movement or loss of protective material.

Signs Inside the Home That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Storm damage doesn’t always show up immediately. Sometimes it shows up inside first.

5. Ceiling Stains or Discoloration

Brown or yellow stains—especially after a storm—can signal water intrusion.

6. Peeling Paint or Bubbling Drywall

Moisture trapped behind walls or ceilings often shows up this way.

7. Attic Moisture or Daylight

If you can safely check your attic, look for damp insulation, water trails, or sunlight coming through the roof deck.

Hail Damage: What Homeowners Commonly Miss

Hail damage isn’t always dramatic. In fact, some of the most problematic hail damage looks subtle.

  • Soft spots or bruising in shingles (often not visible from the ground)

  • Granule loss that accelerates roof aging

  • Cracks in fiberglass mats beneath the shingle surface

A roof can look “okay” and still have damage that shortens its lifespan or leads to leaks later.

Wind Damage Isn’t Always Missing Shingles

High winds can:

  • Break the seal holding shingles down

  • Lift shingles just enough to let water underneath

  • Cause damage that worsens with the next storm

This type of damage often doesn’t leak immediately, which is why it’s commonly overlooked.

When It Makes Sense to Get a Professional Inspection

You should consider a professional inspection if:

  • A strong storm recently passed through your area

  • Neighbors are having repairs or replacements done

  • You see any of the signs listed above

  • Your roof is 8–10+ years old

  • You simply want peace of mind

A proper inspection should focus on documenting conditions, not pressuring you into a decision.

A Quick Word of Caution

After major storms, it’s common for out-of-area contractors to go door-to-door. While some may be legitimate, others rely on urgency and fear.

A trustworthy inspection should:

  • Explain findings clearly

  • Show photo documentation

  • Answer questions without pressure

  • Respect that the final decision is yours

The Bottom Line

Storm damage isn’t about panic—it’s about awareness.

Catching issues early can:

  • Prevent leaks and interior damage

  • Save money over time

  • Help you make informed decisions about repairs or next steps

If you’re unsure, that’s normal. Asking questions and getting clarity is always the right move.

If you realize—or even suspect—that you have storm damage, the most important thing is to slow down, document carefully, and avoid rushed decisions. Here’s a clear, homeowner-first path to follow.

1. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe First

Before worrying about the house:

  • Avoid climbing on the roof (especially if it’s wet or steep)

  • Watch for downed power lines or unstable tree limbs

  • If water is actively entering the home, protect belongings and shut off electricity in affected areas if needed

Safety always comes first.

2. Document What You Can (Without Risk)

Take photos or videos of:

  • Missing, lifted, or damaged shingles (from the ground)

  • Dented gutters, vents, flashing, or siding

  • Shingles or debris in the yard

  • Interior stains, leaks, or ceiling discoloration

Use timestamps if possible. This documentation can be helpful later, even if you don’t file a claim.

3. Prevent Further Damage (If Necessary)

If water is actively getting in:

  • Use buckets or tarps temporarily

  • Move furniture and valuables away from leaks

  • Avoid permanent repairs until damage is properly assessed

Temporary protection is reasonable; permanent fixes too early can complicate things.

4. Get a Professional Roof Inspection

Storm damage isn’t always visible from the ground. A proper inspection should:

  • Look for hail bruising, wind lift, and seal failure

  • Include photo documentation

  • Explain findings clearly in plain language

  • Answer questions without pressure

You’re looking for information, not a sales pitch.

5. Review Your Insurance Policy (High Level)

You don’t need to interpret every line, but it helps to know:

  • Your deductible

  • Whether you have replacement cost or actual cash value coverage

  • Any timelines for reporting storm damage

If something is unclear, ask your insurance agent—not a contractor—to explain policy terms.

6. Decide Whether Filing a Claim Makes Sense

Not all damage requires a claim. Factors to consider:

  • Severity of the damage

  • Age and condition of the roof

  • Estimated repair or replacement cost

  • Your deductible amount

A good inspection helps you make this decision with facts instead of guesswork.

7. Be Careful After Storms

After major weather events, it’s common to see:

  • Door-to-door contractors using urgency

  • “Free roof” promises or deductible waivers (often illegal)

  • Pressure to sign contracts immediately

Take your time. Legitimate professionals will respect that.

8. Keep Records

Save:

  • Photos and videos

  • Inspection reports

  • Dates of storms

  • Notes from conversations with insurers or contractors

Good records reduce stress and prevent misunderstandings later.

The Big Picture

Discovering storm damage doesn’t mean something is “wrong” or that you must act immediately. It means you now have information—and information gives you control.

The goal is simple:

  • Protect your home

  • Avoid unnecessary surprises

  • Make informed decisions at your own pace

If you approach storm damage calmly and methodically, you’ll almost always end up in a better position than reacting out of fear or urgency.

Do you have to be home for a roof inspection?

In most cases, no—you do not have to be home for a roof inspection.

Exterior inspections (roof, gutters, vents, flashing, siding, etc.) can typically be completed without anyone present, as long as the inspector has safe access to the property.

That said, it is recommended to be home when possible. Being present allows you to:

  • Ask questions in real time

  • See photos or findings explained as they’re discovered

  • Better understand the condition of your roof and exterior

The main time you do need to be home is when there are signs of an interior issue, such as:

  • Active leaks

  • Ceiling stains or drywall damage

  • Moisture concerns in the attic

Interior access helps determine where water may be entering and whether the issue is related to the roof or another source.

Bottom line:
You don’t usually have to be home for a roof inspection, but being available—especially if there are interior concerns—can provide additional clarity and peace of mind.

Do you have to use your insurance company’s preferred contractor if you have a roof claim?

No — you do not have to use your insurance company’s preferred contractor.

As a homeowner, you have the legal right to choose your own roofing contractor, even if your insurance company provides a list of “preferred,” “recommended,” or “network” contractors.

Here’s how it actually works and what to know.

What Is a “Preferred Contractor”?

Insurance companies often maintain a list of contractors they’ve worked with before. These contractors:

  • Agree to certain pricing structures

  • Follow specific administrative processes

  • May offer faster turnaround for the insurer

That list exists for the insurance company’s convenience, not because you’re required to use it.

What Your Insurance Policy Covers

Your insurance policy covers damage to your home, not a specific contractor.

As long as:

  • The damage is covered

  • Repairs meet local building code

  • The work is completed properly

You can choose any licensed and insured contractor you trust.

Why Some Homeowners Still Choose Their Own Contractor

Many homeowners prefer selecting their own contractor because:

  • They want someone local with a long-term presence

  • They value communication and transparency

  • They want an advocate focused on the quality of the repair—not just closing the claim

  • They want to avoid being treated like a claim number

A contractor who works for you can help ensure nothing is overlooked during the inspection and repair process.

Important Clarification

Choosing your own contractor does not mean:

  • The contractor controls your insurance policy

  • Coverage is guaranteed

  • The contractor can change policy terms

  • The contractor can interpret your insurance policy (that’s the insurer’s role)

Your insurance company still determines coverage. Your contractor handles the work.

A Common Misconception

Some homeowners are told—or feel pressured—that using a preferred contractor is “easier” or “required.” That’s simply not true.

Insurance companies cannot legally require you to use a specific contractor.

Bottom Line

  • You are free to choose your own roofing contractor

  • You are not required to use the insurance company’s preferred contractor

  • The best outcome usually comes from clear communication between homeowner, contractor, and insurer

The most important thing isn’t who’s on a list—it’s whether the work is done correctly and your home is properly protected.

Will your insurance premiums go up if you file a claim for roof damage?

Maybe—but not always. It depends on the type of claim, your insurer, and your overall claims history.

Here’s the clear, no-nonsense explanation.

The Type of Claim Matters Most

Storm-Related Claims (Hail, Wind, Tornado)

Claims caused by widespread weather events—like hail or windstorms—are generally treated differently than other claims.

  • These are considered “acts of nature”

  • They typically affect many homes in the same area

  • A single storm claim alone does not usually cause an individual premium increase

However, rates in your area can still rise over time due to regional storm risk, even if you personally never file a claim.

Non-Storm or Preventable Claims

Claims tied to maintenance issues or preventable damage (for example, long-term leaks or repeated water damage) are more likely to impact your individual rate.

Insurers may view these as:

  • Higher risk

  • Repeat exposure

  • Potential maintenance concerns

Your Claims History Plays a Role

One claim is rarely an issue. Multiple claims over a short period can be.

Insurers look at:

  • How often you file claims

  • The type of claims filed

  • The total cost over time

A pattern of frequent claims—storm-related or not—can affect renewals or pricing.

Important: A Claim Inquiry vs. Filing a Claim

There’s a big difference between:

  • Asking questions or getting information, and

  • Officially filing a claim

You can:

  • Speak with your insurance agent

  • Ask about coverage

  • Discuss deductibles and scenarios

…without automatically triggering a claim.

If you’re unsure, ask your agent before formally filing.

What Most Homeowners Don’t Realize

  • Insurance is designed for sudden, accidental damage, like storms

  • Using insurance when legitimate damage occurs is not “doing something wrong”

  • Waiting too long to address storm damage can sometimes create bigger issues later

The goal is to make a measured, informed decision, not a rushed one.

Bottom Line

  • A single storm damage claim does not automatically raise your premiums

  • Area-wide rate increases can happen with or without your claim

  • Multiple claims in a short time can affect pricing or renewability

  • Talking to your agent does not equal filing a claim

If you believe you have real storm damage, the smartest move is to gather information, understand your options, and decide calmly—not out of fear of hypothetical premium increases.

That approach almost always leads to better outcomes.

Can your insurance company drop you for filing a roof claim?

In most cases, no—filing a single, legitimate roof claim will not cause your insurance company to drop you. But there are a few important nuances homeowners should understand.

The Short Answer

  • One storm-related roof claim (hail, wind, tornado) rarely leads to cancellation

  • Multiple claims in a short period can raise concerns

  • Non-renewal is more common than mid-policy cancellation

  • Filing a valid claim is not a violation of your policy

Insurance exists for sudden, accidental damage. Using it appropriately is expected.

Cancellation vs. Non-Renewal (Important Difference)

  • Cancellation: Ending your policy mid-term

    • This is uncommon and usually tied to non-payment, fraud, or misrepresentation—not a single claim.

  • Non-renewal: The insurer chooses not to renew at the end of your policy term

    • This is more common and can happen for risk-related reasons.

Most concerns homeowners hear about involve non-renewal, not immediate cancellation.

When a Roof Claim Is Unlikely to Cause Issues

You’re typically safe if:

  • The damage was caused by a documented storm

  • You have one claim, not a pattern

  • The roof is repaired or replaced properly

  • You maintain the home afterward

Widespread storm claims are expected and priced into insurance models.

Situations That Can Raise Red Flags

Insurers may reassess risk if there’s:

  • A history of frequent claims (roof or otherwise)

  • Claims tied to maintenance neglect, not sudden damage

  • Long delays in addressing known damage

  • Misrepresentation or inaccurate information on the policy

Even then, the result is more often non-renewal, not immediate termination.

What About Just “Asking” or Getting an Inspection?

  • Getting a roof inspection does not affect your insurance

  • Talking to your agent does not equal filing a claim

  • Asking coverage questions does not put you on a blacklist

A claim typically isn’t logged until you formally authorize it.

The Practical Takeaway

  • Insurance companies expect storm claims

  • One legitimate roof claim almost never gets you dropped

  • Avoid filing small or questionable claims repeatedly

  • Maintain your home and address damage promptly

If you have real storm damage, fear of being dropped shouldn’t stop you from getting accurate information and making a thoughtful decision.

The smart move is always the same: understand the situation first, then decide calmly—without pressure or panic.

It’s important to know what kind of insurance policy you have. When it comes to property and casualty (P&C) insurance, the biggest differences homeowners need to understand usually come down to how losses are paid and what’s covered. Here’s a clear breakdown—especially around ACV and RCV, which cause the most confusion.

The Two Most Common Property Coverage Types

1. Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

RCV policies pay to repair or replace damaged property with materials of similar kind and quality—without deducting for depreciation.

How it works:

  • Insurance initially pays Actual Cash Value (ACV)

  • After repairs or replacement are completed, the insurer releases the depreciation holdback

  • Final payout reflects the full replacement cost, minus your deductible

Why homeowners prefer RCV:

  • Better long-term protection

  • Less out-of-pocket cost

  • Especially important for roofs, siding, and major systems

Important note:
Most RCV policies require repairs to be completed within a certain timeframe to recover depreciation.

2. Actual Cash Value (ACV)

ACV policies pay replacement cost minus depreciation.

How it works:

  • The insurer factors in the age and condition of the damaged item

  • You receive a payout based on its depreciated value

  • There is no depreciation recovery

Example:
If a roof would cost $20,000 to replace but is heavily depreciated, the payout might be significantly less—sometimes only a fraction of the replacement cost.

Why some policies are ACV:

  • Lower premiums

  • Common on older roofs

  • Increasingly used for roof coverage specifically

Tradeoff:
Lower premiums often mean higher out-of-pocket costs when a claim happens.

Hybrid & Modified Policy Structures

3. RCV Policy with ACV Roof Endorsement

This is becoming more common.

  • The home is covered at RCV

  • The roof is paid at ACV

  • Everything else may still qualify for replacement cost

This can surprise homeowners who assume their entire policy is RCV.

4. Functional Replacement Cost (FRC)

Often found on older homes.

  • Pays to restore functionality, not original materials

  • Example: plaster replaced with drywall

  • Less expensive than full RCV, but more than ACV

Other Common Property Policy Types

5. Named Peril Policy

  • Covers only the specific perils listed in the policy

  • If it’s not listed, it’s not covered

  • Often cheaper but more restrictive

6. Open Peril (All-Risk) Policy

  • Covers all causes of loss unless explicitly excluded

  • More comprehensive

  • Common in higher-quality homeowners policies

Casualty Coverage (Often Overlooked)

Property & casualty insurance also includes liability protection, such as:

  • Bodily injury to others

  • Property damage to others

  • Legal defense costs

This part of the policy is separate from ACV vs. RCV, but just as important.

Why This Matters for Roof Claims

Two homeowners with identical storm damage can receive very different payouts depending on:

  • ACV vs. RCV coverage

  • Roof endorsements

  • Age of the roof

  • Policy language

That’s why understanding your policy before a storm is one of the smartest things you can do.

Bottom Line

  • RCV = better coverage, higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket risk

  • ACV = lower premiums, higher financial responsibility after a loss

  • Many policies mix both—especially for roofs

  • Always confirm how your roof is specifically covered

If you’re unsure what type of policy you have, your insurance agent is the right person to explain your coverage in plain terms—before you ever need to file a claim.

 

After a homeowner files an insurance claim for roof damage, there are several simple but important steps they can take to help the process move smoothly. These steps don’t give control away, don’t increase costs, and don’t reduce the homeowner’s leverage—in fact, they usually do the opposite.

Here’s what to do next, and why it actually benefits you as the homeowner.

1. Share the Insurance Scope of Work With Your Roofing Company

Once the insurance company completes its inspection, they’ll issue a scope of work (sometimes called an estimate or loss summary). This document outlines:

  • What the insurance company approved

  • What repairs or replacement they believe are necessary

  • Quantities, measurements, and pricing assumptions

Why homeowners hesitate

Some homeowners worry that:

  • A contractor will “charge more” if they see the scope

  • The contractor will blindly match insurance pricing

  • Sharing the scope gives up negotiating power

Those concerns are understandable—but in practice, the opposite is usually true.

Why sharing the scope helps you

Providing the scope allows your roofing company to:

  • Verify that all damaged items are included

  • Confirm code-required components aren’t missing

  • Identify discrepancies before work begins (not after)

  • Align expectations so there are fewer surprises later

When the contractor doesn’t see the scope, issues are more likely to show up mid-project—when stress is higher and timelines are tighter.

Transparency early = smoother execution later.

2. Allow the Roofing Company to Compare the Scope to Actual Conditions

Insurance scopes are based on a snapshot in time. They can miss:

  • Hidden or hard-to-see damage

  • Code upgrades required by local building departments

  • Roofing components not visible during the adjuster’s visit

By comparing the scope to real-world conditions, your contractor can flag items before work starts, instead of discovering them halfway through the job.

That protects you from:

  • Delays

  • Change orders you weren’t expecting

  • Confusion about who’s responsible for what

3. Keep Communication Lines Open (But Centralized)

After the claim is filed, it helps to:

  • Respond to reasonable requests for documents or approvals

  • Share updates you receive from your insurer

  • Keep communication clear and organized

This doesn’t mean you need to manage everything—it just means making sure everyone is working from the same information.

When communication breaks down, homeowners often end up acting as messengers later under pressure. Staying aligned early reduces that risk.

4. Avoid Making Permanent Repairs Too Soon

It’s okay to take temporary measures to prevent further damage (tarps, interior protection, etc.), but permanent repairs should typically wait until:

  • The scope is reviewed

  • Materials and methods are confirmed

  • Everyone agrees on the plan

Jumping ahead can complicate documentation and create unnecessary confusion.

5. Keep Copies of Everything

Save:

  • Photos

  • The insurance scope

  • Emails and letters

  • Notes from conversations

This isn’t about distrust—it’s about clarity. Good records make it easier to resolve questions calmly if they come up.

The Bigger Picture (and the Reassurance)

Sharing your insurance scope with your roofing company does not:

  • Force you to approve work

  • Increase your deductible

  • Give up your rights

  • Lock you into anything

What it does do is reduce friction, prevent misunderstandings, and help ensure the work being done actually matches what was approved.

The smoother the process behind the scenes, the better the outcome tends to be for the homeowner.

Bottom Line

After filing a claim, the most helpful thing a homeowner can do is support transparency and coordination.

Providing the scope of work and staying engaged isn’t about helping the contractor—it’s about:

  • Protecting your home

  • Reducing stress

  • Avoiding last-minute surprises

  • Making sure the repair is done correctly the first time

A good process feels calm, clear, and predictable. These steps help make that possible.

 

When an insurance company says “no” to a storm damage claim, it can feel frustrating—or even final. In reality, a denial usually means “based on the information reviewed so far”, not that the situation is over or that the homeowner did something wrong.

Here’s how to think about it and what to do next.

First: Don’t Panic or Assume the Worst

A denial does not automatically mean:

  • There’s no damage

  • You waited too long

  • You made a mistake

  • You have no options

Insurance decisions are based on documentation and interpretation at a specific moment in time. Sometimes important details are simply missed.

Understand Why the Claim Was Denied

The denial letter should explain the reason. Common explanations include:

  • Damage attributed to wear and tear or age

  • Insufficient evidence of storm-related damage

  • Damage deemed cosmetic only

  • The storm date could not be confirmed

  • The damage didn’t meet the policy threshold

Knowing the “why” determines the next step.

Review the Findings Carefully

Compare:

  • What the insurance adjuster documented

  • What the contractor observed

  • What you’re seeing on the home

Sometimes the disagreement isn’t about whether damage exists—but about cause or extent.

Provide Additional Documentation (If Appropriate)

If new or overlooked information exists, it may be reasonable to submit:

  • Clear photos showing storm-related damage

  • Dates of known storms in your area

  • Contractor inspection findings

  • Code-related items that weren’t addressed

This isn’t about arguing—it’s about clarity.

Consider a Reinspection

In some cases, requesting a second look makes sense—especially if:

  • Damage wasn’t fully visible during the first inspection

  • Weather conditions limited the inspection

  • Key areas were missed

Reinspections are a normal part of the process, not a confrontation.

Know What a Denial Doesn’t Mean

A denial does not:

  • Prevent you from repairing your roof

  • Lock you into inaction

  • Mean the damage won’t worsen over time

  • Require you to agree with the decision

It simply means the insurance company has made a determination based on the information they reviewed.

If the Decision Stands

If the insurer maintains the denial:

  • Ask what documentation would be needed to reconsider

  • Clarify whether partial repairs are covered

  • Decide whether self-paying for repairs makes sense

  • Weigh the cost of further action against potential benefit

Every situation is different, and not every claim will move forward.

The Practical Takeaway

When an insurance company says “no,” the best next step is understanding—not reacting.

  • Gather information

  • Ask clear questions

  • Evaluate options calmly

  • Decide what makes sense for your home

A thoughtful response almost always leads to better outcomes than frustration or rushing.

 
 

So your storm claim is approved – congratulations! The next thing we need is the scope of work. The steps are as follows:

1. Share the Insurance Scope of Work With Your Roofing Company

Once the insurance company completes its inspection, they’ll issue a scope of work (sometimes called an estimate or loss summary). This document outlines:

  • What the insurance company approved

  • What repairs or replacement they believe are necessary

  • Quantities, measurements, and pricing assumptions

Why homeowners hesitate

Some homeowners worry that:

  • A contractor will “charge more” if they see the scope

  • The contractor will blindly match insurance pricing

  • Sharing the scope gives up negotiating power

Those concerns are understandable—but in practice, the opposite is usually true.

Why sharing the scope helps you

Providing the scope allows your roofing company to:

  • Verify that all damaged items are included

  • Confirm code-required components aren’t missing

  • Identify discrepancies before work begins (not after)

  • Align expectations so there are fewer surprises later

When the contractor doesn’t see the scope, issues are more likely to show up mid-project—when stress is higher and timelines are tighter.

Transparency early = smoother execution later.

2. Allow the Roofing Company to Compare the Scope to Actual Conditions

Insurance scopes are based on a snapshot in time. They can miss:

  • Hidden or hard-to-see damage

  • Code upgrades required by local building departments

  • Roofing components not visible during the adjuster’s visit

By comparing the scope to real-world conditions, your contractor can flag items before work starts, instead of discovering them halfway through the job.

That protects you from:

  • Delays

  • Change orders you weren’t expecting

  • Confusion about who’s responsible for what

 

During a roof insurance claim, homeowners are often surprised to learn that the money doesn’t usually arrive in one lump sum. Instead, most claims—especially those with Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage—are paid in stages, commonly resulting in two or three checks over the life of the claim.

Here’s a clear explanation of the three checks you may receive, what each one is for, and why the process works this way.

1. The First Check: Actual Cash Value (ACV)

When it arrives:
Shortly after the insurance inspection and claim approval.

What it is:
This is the initial payment and is based on the depreciated value of your roof at the time of loss.

What it covers:

  • The approved scope of work

  • Minus depreciation

  • Minus your deductible

Important to know:

  • This is not the full amount of the claim (on RCV policies)

  • The deductible is not included in this check

  • This payment allows work to get started

Many homeowners assume this is the total payout—it usually isn’t.

2. The Second Check: Recoverable Depreciation

When it arrives:
After the roof work is completed and documentation is submitted.

What it is:
This check releases the depreciation that was withheld in the first payment.

What’s required to receive it:

  • Proof the work was completed (invoice, photos, or completion certificate)

  • Compliance with any policy timelines

Why insurers do this:
Insurance companies withhold depreciation to ensure the repairs or replacement actually occur.

If the work isn’t completed, the depreciation typically isn’t released.

3. The Third Check: Supplemental or Additional Payments (If Applicable)

When it arrives:
At various points during or after the project—if needed.

What it is:
This check covers items that:

  • Were missed in the original scope

  • Are required by local building code

  • Could not be identified during the initial inspection

Examples include:

  • Code upgrades

  • Hidden damage

  • Additional materials or labor required once work begins

Important clarification:
Supplemental payments are not “extra profit”—they’re meant to cover legitimate, necessary work that was not originally included.

Why This Structure Exists

This multi-check process:

  • Protects homeowners from overpayment before work is done

  • Ensures repairs are completed properly

  • Creates accountability for all parties

While it can feel complicated, it’s designed to match payment with progress.

Bottom Line

  • Most RCV roof claims involve two or three checks

  • ACV is paid first, depreciation later

  • Supplemental checks are common and normal

  • The deductible is never paid by the insurance company

Understanding how these checks work ahead of time helps homeowners plan financially and avoid confusion during the process.

 

Knowing whether your contractor is licensed and insured is one of the simplest—and most important—ways to protect yourself as a homeowner. Unfortunately, those words get used loosely, so it helps to understand what they actually mean, how to verify them, and what they do not guarantee.

What “Licensed” Really Means

A licensed contractor has met the requirements set by the state or local authority to legally perform certain types of work.

Depending on your state, this usually means:

  • Passing required exams (trade, business, or both)

  • Meeting experience requirements

  • Registering the business properly

  • Maintaining the license in good standing

How to Verify a License

You can usually verify a contractor’s license by:

  1. Asking for their license number

  2. Searching the state licensing board’s website

  3. Confirming the license is active, current, and issued to the correct business name

This takes just a few minutes and should never offend a legitimate contractor.

What a License Does Mean

  • The contractor is legally allowed to do the work

  • They are accountable to a governing authority

  • There is a paper trail if something goes wrong

What a License Does NOT Mean

  • It does not guarantee quality workmanship

  • It does not guarantee honesty

  • It does not mean they are the best contractor available

A license is a minimum legal requirement, not a quality rating.

What “Insured” Really Means

“Insured” usually refers to two different types of insurance, and both matter.

1. General Liability Insurance

This protects you if the contractor:

  • Causes property damage

  • Breaks something accidentally

  • Causes damage related to their work

If a contractor damages your home and isn’t insured, the homeowner can end up dealing with it themselves.

2. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

This covers medical costs and lost wages if a worker is injured on your property.

This is critical because without it:

  • An injured worker may attempt to hold the homeowner responsible

  • You could be exposed to legal and financial risk

How to Verify Insurance

  • Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI)

  • Confirm:

    • The policy is active

    • Coverage limits are reasonable

    • The business name matches the contractor

  • If unsure, you can call the insurance provider listed on the certificate

What “Licensed and Insured” Does NOT Mean

This is where confusion often happens.

Being licensed and insured does not mean:

  • The contractor is automatically trustworthy

  • The work will be done correctly

  • Subcontractors are also insured

  • The company has strong processes or quality control

  • The contractor will communicate well or show up on time

It’s a baseline—not a promise.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a contractor:

  • Won’t provide license or insurance information

  • Says “you don’t need to worry about that”

  • Uses vague phrases like “we’re covered” without documentation

  • Has insurance that doesn’t match the business name

  • Carries liability insurance but no workers’ comp

Transparency here is non-negotiable.

The Bottom Line

Licensed and insured means:

  • The contractor is legally allowed to operate

  • There are protections in place if something goes wrong

It does not mean:

  • The contractor is the best option

  • You shouldn’t ask more questions

  • You can skip due diligence

Think of licensing and insurance as the starting line, not the finish line. The best contractors are happy to explain their credentials, show documentation, and help you understand exactly what protections are in place—because informed homeowners make better decisions.

 
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