Making the Most Out of Insurance Claims for Roofs

When severe weather strikes Detroit, from hailstorms to heavy snow and high winds off the Great Lakes, commercial and residential roofs often take the brunt of the damage. For many property owners, filing an insurance claim is the only way to afford necessary repairs or replacements. Unfortunately, the claims process can be complex, confusing, and even overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with it. At Motor City Roofers, we’ve guided countless clients through this process, ensuring they get the coverage they deserve.
This article will walk you through the key steps, strategies, and pitfalls to avoid when filing a roofing insurance claim in Detroit.

1. Understand What Your Policy Covers
​Not all policies are the same. Some cover full replacement costs, while others only cover actual cash value (ACV), which factors in depreciation.

• Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Pays for a new roof of similar quality and material without deducting for age or wear.
• Actual Cash Value (ACV): Covers the roof’s value at the time of damage, often leaving property owners responsible for the difference.

Tip: Review your policy before damage happens. Knowing your coverage type prepares you for realistic expectations and helps guide your claim.

2. Document Damage ImmediatelyTime is critical after a storm. As soon as it is safe, document all visible damage:

• Take clear, timestamped photos of missing shingles, punctures, dents, and leaks.
• Capture wide shots of the whole roof and close-ups of specific damage.
• Don’t forget the interior—photograph water stains on ceilings, mold, or damaged equipment.

This evidence helps prove your claim, especially if the insurance adjuster misses something during their inspection.

3. Schedule a Professional Roof InspectionInsurance companies send adjusters, but their goal is often to minimize payouts. Having Motor City Roofers or another qualified contractor inspect your roof ensures an unbiased, professional assessment.

• We know how to identify storm-related damage that adjusters may dismiss as “wear and tear.”
• A professional inspection report strengthens your claim with technical language insurers respect.
• If needed, we can meet the adjuster onsite to make sure nothing is overlooked.

4. Don’t Delay Filing Your ClaimMost insurance policies have strict deadlines—often 6 to 12 months after the damage occurs. Delaying can result in denial, even if the damage is legitimate.
File as soon as possible to keep your claim active and avoid further damage that could be blamed on neglect.

5. Mitigate Further DamageInsurance companies expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent more damage. Cover exposed areas with tarps, clear debris from gutters, and stop leaks with temporary measures.
Important: Keep receipts for all materials and emergency repair services. Insurers typically reimburse these costs if they’re related to storm mitigation.

6. Beware of Common Insurance Company TacticsIt’s no secret that insurers aim to minimize payouts. Be prepared for these strategies:

• Claiming Pre-Existing Damage: They may argue your roof was already deteriorating.
• Partial Approvals: Only covering a small section of the roof instead of the whole system.
• Lowball Estimates: Offering a payout that doesn’t reflect the true cost of repairs.

Having a trusted contractor and thorough documentation is your best defense.

7. Know Your DeductibleMany policies in Michigan now include wind and hail deductibles that are a percentage of your property’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount. For large commercial buildings, this can be a substantial out-of-pocket expense.
Understanding your deductible upfront avoids surprises and helps you budget properly.

8. Work With a Roofing Contractor Experienced in Insurance ClaimsAt Motor City Roofers, we specialize in handling roofing claims for Detroit property owners. Here’s how we help:

• Detailed Damage Reports: Comprehensive inspections that meet insurance standards.
• Direct Communication: We coordinate with adjusters to ensure nothing is missed.
• Accurate Estimates: Transparent, line-item pricing that reflects real repair or replacement costs.
• Claim Advocacy: If an insurer underestimates, we can provide additional evidence to support supplemental claims.

9. Avoid Storm ChasersAfter a big storm, Detroit often sees a wave of “storm chaser” contractors—out-of-town roofers who promise quick fixes and disappear once paid.
Red flags include:

• Asking for full payment upfront.
• Refusing to show proof of licensing or insurance.
• Pushing you to sign documents before the claim is approved.

Always choose a local, established company like Motor City Roofers that will stand behind its work long after the storm is over.

10. Understand Depreciation and Recoverable CostsMany policies include recoverable depreciation—the withheld value you can claim after the roof replacement is complete.

• The insurer may initially issue a partial payment.
• Once the work is completed and invoices are submitted, they release the rest.
• Missing this step means leaving money on the table.

Motor City Roofers assists clients with the paperwork to ensure they receive the full amount owed.

11. Keep Records OrganizedMaintain a dedicated folder for:

• Insurance policy documents.
• Photos and inspection reports.
• Copies of your claim submission.
• All correspondence with the insurance company.
• Receipts for mitigation and contractor services.

If disputes arise, organized records make your case stronger.

12. Be Prepared to Appeal or NegotiateIf your claim is denied or underpaid, don’t give up. Many denials are overturned with additional evidence or appeals. In some cases, you may need to involve a public adjuster or legal professional.
Motor City Roofers has worked with countless Detroit clients to provide supplemental reports and re-inspections that helped secure fair settlements.

Conclusion: Partner With Experts to Maximize Your ClaimFiling an insurance claim for roof damage can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to act quickly, document thoroughly, and work with trusted professionals who understand both roofing and insurance processes.
At Motor City Roofers, we advocate for property owners throughout Detroit and Southeast Michigan, ensuring they get the full value their insurance policy promises. From inspections and reports to direct communication with insurers, we handle the details so you can focus on running your business or maintaining your property.
Don’t let your insurance company dictate the outcome of your claim. With the right partner, you can restore your roof quickly, affordably, and with confidence.

📞 Call Motor City Roofers today to schedule a storm damage inspection and get expert guidance on maximizing your roofing insurance claim.