Roof Insurance Claims – Hail, Wind, Storm & Fire

When a storm shreds shingles or dings metal, you need a calm, methodical process—not guesswork. We document the damage, meet your adjuster, write an apples-to-apples Xactimate estimate, and manage supplements so the scope reflects what your home actually needs to be made whole.

Hail/wind inspections & estimates are free. Call/Text 334-332-7799.

Our Insurance Claim Process

1. Free storm inspection – We check shingles, metal, flashing, vents, chimney, ridge, and soft metals for hail impact & wind lift/crease. We also look for collateral hits (gutters, window screens, fascia). Drone imaging available for steep/complex roofs.
2. Photo & video documentation – Date-stamped images showing slope, test square hits, and mechanical creases (not foot scuffs).
3. Adjuster coordination – We meet the adjuster on-site to review slopes, collateral damage, and code items so nothing critical is missed.
4. Xactimate estimate – Line-item scope in the same software most carriers use. If the initial carrier scope is short, we submit supplements with documentation.
5. Build to code & manufacturer spec – Proper underlayment, starter, hip/ridge, ventilation, flashing, and valley metal. We install systems (e.g., GAF) to qualify for enhanced warranties where appropriate.
6. Final invoice & depreciation release – We provide completion photos and paperwork so the carrier releases recoverable depreciation (RCV policies).

What We Look For

• Asphalt shingles: hail impact (granule loss with mat bruise), wind-creased tabs, broken seal strips, missing caps, exposed fasteners, torn valleys, compromised pipe boots, counter/step flashing failures.
• Metal: hail dings on pans/ribs, finish micro-fractures, deformed ridge/valley/edge metals, fastener back-out on classic rib, seam integrity on standing seam.
• Flat roofs (PVC/TPO/EPDM): membrane punctures, heat-weld/adhesive failures, scupper/termination issues, trapped moisture, hail “spidering.”
• Collateral: gutters/downspouts, window screens, garage doors, A/C fins, soft metals—helps corroborate hail size and direction.

Insurance Basics (Quick & Plain English)

• ACV vs RCV: Actual Cash Value pays today’s value (depreciated). Replacement Cost Value pays ACV now, then releases recoverable depreciation after completion. Policies vary.
• Deductible: It’s your legal responsibility. We do not “waive” deductibles. That’s insurance fraud and can void claims.
• Supplements: If the carrier scope misses code items (e.g., drip edge, valley metal, ice & water in valleys, ventilation upgrades), we submit documentation and code citations so the job meets local code and manufacturer install requirements.
• Code upgrades: Some policies include Ordinance & Law coverage—this can pay for required upgrades (e.g., deck re-nailing, ridge vent, synthetic underlayment) up to limits.
• Timelines: Most carriers require prompt notice after the storm. Filing delays can risk denial—call us and we’ll help you decide if a claim is warranted before you file.

Emergency Tarping & Dry-In

Active leaks? We can install emergency tarps or membrane dry-ins to protect the home. Keep receipts—these are typically reimbursable under your policy’s “reasonable emergency services.”

Material Systems We Install

• Architectural shingles: full system with synthetic underlayment, starter, ridge vent, hip/ridge caps, metal valleys, new flashings.
• Classic-rib metal: new panels, closures, sealants, fasteners; we address failing neoprene washers and penetration flashings.
• Standing seam: snap-lock or mechanically seamed; custom flashings, valleys, and ridge details.
• PVC/TPO flat roofing: mechanically fastened or fully adhered, tapered insulation options, welded seams, scuppers/edge metals.
• Specialty: slate, cedar, copper details—case-by-case with appropriate documentation if storm-related.

Why Caldwell’s for Insurance Work

• Clear documentation: photos, test squares, slope maps, and videos your adjuster can actually use.
• Apples-to-apples estimates: Xactimate line items, code notes, and manufacturer requirements.
• Quality install: we build it like it’s our house—because the only callback we want is a referral.
• Local & reachable: Auburn–Opelika based, serving surrounding communities.

FAQs

Will a small number of hail hits really matter?

If hits breach the mat or dislodge protective granules, leaks and premature aging follow. We document by slope; some slopes pass, some fail.

My neighbor got a roof—why was mine denied?

Different orientation, pitch, age, or materials. Also, adjusters and carriers differ. Solid documentation and a reasonable re-inspection request can help.

Can you meet my adjuster?

Yes. We prefer to—so the scope reflects what’s actually on your roof.

Next Step

Call/Text 334-332-7799 for a free storm inspection. If a claim makes sense, we’ll help you navigate it, then install a code-compliant roof that looks right and lasts.