The instinct after storm damage is to call your insurance company first. In most situations, that’s the wrong order.
You Need to Know What You’re Claiming
Filing a claim without knowing the extent of damage is like going to the doctor without describing your symptoms. The adjuster comes out, finds less than you expected, and you’ve opened a claim that might get denied — which still counts against your claims history even if nothing is paid.
A free contractor inspection tells you:
- Whether the damage is insurance-grade (functional vs. cosmetic)
- What the realistic scope includes
- Whether it’s worth filing given your deductible
- What documentation you need before the adjuster arrives
Not Every Storm Event Warrants a Claim
If a storm produced 3/4-inch hail and your roof is 3 years old with Class 4 shingles, you may have minimal insurance-grade damage. Filing a claim that gets denied isn’t neutral — it creates a claims history record that can affect your renewability and future premiums.
You Need Documentation Before the Adjuster Arrives
A contractor inspection produces dated photographs, a written damage assessment, material documentation, and a professional opinion of cause. This is your independent record if the adjuster’s scope is incomplete.
It Costs Nothing
Free roof inspections are the industry standard. If a contractor is charging you for an initial storm damage inspection, find another contractor.
At Atlanta Roofing Experts, we provide free storm damage inspections across metro Atlanta and outlying areas, typically within 24-48 hours. We provide a written report regardless of whether you use us for the work. Book your free inspection →