After a major storm, one of the first questions homeowners ask is: “Should I file an insurance claim?” Acting quickly is important, but taking the wrong steps too soon can actually cost you time, money, and coverage. Before you contact your insurance provider, there are a few key things you should know to protect your home and make sure your claim is handled correctly. Step 1: Safely Assess the Situation When you notice the first signs of damage on your roof after a storm, your first instinct might be to grab a ladder and take a closer look. In any situation involving heights, however, safety always comes first. Avoid climbing your roof, especially if it’s wet, steep, or visibly damaged. Instead, you should observe your home from the ground, looking for any of the following: Missing or lifted shingles Bent or damaged flashing around vents and chimneys Shingle pieces or granules collecting in gutters, downspouts, or on your lawn Water stains or dripping inside your home Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly Before calling anyone else, it’s best for you to record your own evidence of the damage. This step is extremely important before filing a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider, and it’s often the first thing they ask for. Luckily, most modern phones have high-quality cameras built in, so it’s easy to document the state of your home in detail. Take pictures of both the interior and exterior of your home, from multiple angles or distances, if you can. It is especially important to thoroughly document any debris or materials that fell from your roof as well as any areas that are actively leaking. Step 3: Take Temporary Steps to Prevent Further Damage Once you’ve taken the documentation that you need, you’re safe to start taking steps to mitigate further damage. This does not mean scaling your roof to start making repairs, but instead doing a few simple actions to stall the damage until you can call a professional, like: Place buckets under leaks Move valuable or moisture-sensitive items out of the way Remove standing water Use tarp or plastic sheeting to help protect unmovable things (like carpet) If you do make any impromptu repairs, keep documentation of exactly what you did, including photos and receipts of any materials bought. Your roofing contractor and insurance provider will want a record of that. Step 4: Review Your Insurance Policy Before filing a claim, it is helpful to understand what your homeowner’s insurance realistically covers. Not all roof damage is treated the same. Most policies cover sudden or accidental damage caused by events like high winds, hailstorms, or falling debris. Damage caused by general wear and tear, age, or poor installation is typically not covered by insurance. Step 5: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection Before filing a claim, it’s often best to have your roof inspected by a professional. A qualified roofer can identify damage, determine whether it’s storm-related, and help you understand whether filing a claim makes sense. Don’t Know What to Do? Call a Roofer You Can Trust It is best to act as soon as you notice something unusual about your roof. Many people in the Kansas City metro have found themselves with leaks or other damage recently. Acting quickly can help prevent more serious damage to your home. If you’re in need of a roofer, you should go with one that you can trust. At Ameristar Roofing, we believe in honesty and transparency, which is why all of our initial inspections are completely free. Our team has decades of combined experience, and we can quickly, safely, and thoroughly find any issues with your roof. Working with an experienced roofing company early in the repair process can save you time, reduce stress, and help ensure nothing is overlooked. Whether you're dealing with an active leak or simply want peace of mind after a storm, scheduling an inspection is one of the smartest steps you can take.  If you're unsure whether your roof damage qualifies for an insurance claim, reaching out to Ameristar Roofing is a simple way to get clear answers and professional guidance.

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