Severe weather is a fact of life in Mokena. Between summer hailstorms, straight-line winds, and the heavy snow and ice that roll through northern Illinois every winter, local roofs take a beating. When a storm leaves your roof damaged, your homeowner’s insurance policy is there to help cover the cost of repairs or replacement, but only if you file your claim the right way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it correctly.
1. Prioritize Safety First
Before anything else, make sure your household is safe. Don’t climb onto a wet or damaged roof yourself. If you have visible interior leaks, move furniture and valuables out of the way and place buckets to catch water. If the damage is severe enough to expose your home to the elements, you can make temporary fixes, such as tarping an open section, to prevent further damage. Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps to limit additional loss.
2. Document the Damage Thoroughly
Insurance claims live and die on documentation. As soon as it’s safe, take clear photos and videos of everything: damaged shingles, dented gutters, fallen branches, water stains on ceilings, and any debris. Capture both wide shots and close-ups. If you have older photos showing your roof in good condition before the storm, gather those too. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be when the adjuster reviews it.
3. Review Your Policy Before You Call
Take a few minutes to understand what your policy actually covers. Look for your deductible, your coverage limits, and whether you have replacement cost value (RCV) or actual cash value (ACV) coverage. RCV pays to replace your roof at today’s prices, while ACV factors in depreciation and typically pays less. Knowing these details up front helps you set realistic expectations and spot any issues if the payout comes back lower than expected.
4. File Your Claim Promptly
Most insurers have deadlines for reporting storm damage, so don’t wait. Call your insurance company or use their app to start the claim, and write down your claim number and the name of every representative you speak with. Be factual and specific about the date of the storm and the damage you’ve observed. Filing quickly also helps establish a clear link between the weather event and the damage, which makes the claim harder to dispute.
5. Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Before the insurance adjuster arrives, it’s smart to have an experienced local roofing contractor inspect your roof. A professional can identify damage you might miss, such as bruised shingles, compromised flashing, or hidden leaks, and provide a detailed written estimate. Having that documentation in hand gives you a strong reference point when the adjuster makes their own assessment, and it helps ensure nothing gets overlooked. If you’re not sure whether your damage warrants a call, our guide on the signs you need to call a roofing contractor ASAP is a helpful starting point.
6. Meet the Adjuster
Your insurer will send an adjuster to evaluate the damage and estimate repair costs. Whenever possible, have your roofing contractor present during this visit. A reputable contractor can walk the roof with the adjuster, point out every area of damage, and advocate for a fair and complete assessment. This step alone can make a significant difference in your final payout.
7. Review the Settlement and Begin Repairs
Once your claim is approved, you’ll receive a settlement detailing what the insurer will pay. Compare it carefully against your contractor’s estimate. If there are gaps, your contractor can often help you file a supplement for items that were missed. After everything is agreed upon, you can schedule your repairs or full roof replacement with a trusted local company.
A Few Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t sign anything you don’t understand, don’t accept the first lowball offer without question, and be wary of out-of-town “storm chaser” companies that show up uninvited after a major weather event. Working with an established Mokena contractor protects you long after the storm has passed.
Storm damage is stressful, but a smooth insurance claim doesn’t have to be. If your Mokena home has taken a hit, Rusin Restoration is here to inspect your roof, document the damage, and guide you through the entire process. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation inspection.