Storms are a part of life in Nebraska. From hail and high winds to heavy snow, these weather events can take a toll on your home, especially the roof. When damage happens, homeowners often find themselves navigating the insurance claims process for the first time.
Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you handle your roofing insurance claim and understand how Prellwitz Exteriors supports homeowners throughout the process.
Step 1: Check for Signs of Roof Damage
After a storm, the first step is identifying whether your home has been affected. Common signs of roof damage include:
- Missing or lifted shingles
- Impact marks or dents from hail
- Granules in gutters or at the base of downspouts
- Water stains or leaks inside your home
- Torn or loose flashing near roof edges or chimneys
Perform a visual inspection from the ground if it is safe to do so. Avoid climbing onto the roof yourself. Instead, contact a professional for a full inspection.
Step 2: Get a Professional Inspection
Before filing a claim, it’s important to have a licensed roofing contractor assess the damage. Prellwitz Exteriors provides free storm damage inspections throughout the Lincoln area.
Our inspections include:
- Photo documentation of all visible damage
- A clear summary of what needs to be repaired or replaced
- Information your insurance company will likely request
This step helps you understand the scope of the issue and whether a claim is appropriate.
Step 3: Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Before you file, take time to understand what your policy covers. Look for the following:
- Your deductible amount
- Coverage for roof repairs or full replacements
- Exclusions related to roof age or previous conditions
- Time limits for filing after a storm
If your policy is unclear, speak with your insurance agent. Our team can also help explain how typical coverage applies to storm damage in Nebraska.
Step 4: File the Insurance Claim
Once you confirm the damage and review your policy, you can begin the claims process. This typically involves:
- Contacting your insurance provider to start the claim
- Submitting the inspection report and supporting photos
- Scheduling a visit from the insurance adjuster
- Waiting for the adjuster to complete their evaluation and submit their estimate
It is helpful to have your contractor present when the adjuster visits. At Prellwitz Exteriors, we often attend these visits to ensure that no damage is overlooked.
Step 5: Review the Insurance Estimate Carefully
After the adjuster’s visit, the insurance company will issue an estimate that outlines what they will cover. This document shows:
- The scope of the work
- The total approved cost
- Your deductible and any depreciation
In some cases, the initial estimate may not include all necessary repairs. Our team compares the insurance estimate with our findings. If there are differences, we can submit additional documentation to request revisions.
Step 6: Select a Trusted Local Contractor
Once your claim is approved, you are free to choose the contractor who will complete the repairs. Be sure to select a company that:
- Is licensed and insured
- Has experience with insurance restoration work
- Can meet the insurer’s documentation and timeline requirements
- Has a track record of quality craftsmanship
Prellwitz Exteriors has helped many homeowners across the Lincoln area navigate this exact process. Our team coordinates directly with your insurance company to keep things moving and avoid delays.
Step 7: Don’t Wait to Act
Most insurance policies have deadlines for filing claims and completing repairs. These are often between 6 to 12 months after the storm event. Waiting too long may lead to denial of coverage or additional damage that is not covered.
Even if you are not sure whether your roof has sustained damage, it is worth scheduling an inspection. Minor damage left unaddressed can lead to larger issues later.
Why Homeowners in Lincoln Choose Prellwitz Exteriors
- Experience with storm damage restoration throughout Nebraska
- Local team with in-depth knowledge of regional weather and insurance processes
- Assistance with inspections, documentation, and adjuster coordination
- High-quality work across roofing, siding, windows, and gutters
- Clear communication and dependable service from start to finish
We are committed to making the insurance claim process straightforward and stress-free for our clients.
Schedule a Free Storm Damage Inspection
If your roof may have been damaged in a recent storm, reach out to Prellwitz Exteriors. We will provide a no-cost inspection, explain the next steps, and support you through the claims process from start to finish.
Call (402) 300-3117 or request an inspection at prellwitzexteriors.com/get-a-quote/
