Filing an insurance claim for roof storm damage can feel overwhelming. Here’s a clear breakdown of how the process works in Illinois, and how to make sure you get a fair settlement.
Step 1: Get an Independent Inspection First
Before you file anything, get a free inspection from a roofing contractor experienced in insurance claims. They’ll document all damage and give you a realistic picture of what your claim should cover.
Step 2: File Your Claim
Contact your insurer, provide the storm date and damage description. They’ll assign a claim number and schedule an adjuster inspection. Tip: have your contractor present during the adjuster visit to ensure nothing gets missed.
Step 3: The Adjuster Visit
The adjuster prepares a “scope of loss” estimate using Xactimate software. Common issues: missed damage on secondary slopes, undervalued code upgrades, excessive depreciation, and overlooked gutter or siding damage.
Step 4: Your Initial ACV Check
Your insurer sends an initial payment based on Actual Cash Value (replacement cost minus depreciation). This is typically not the final amount – don’t assume it’s all you’re entitled to.
Step 5: Supplement Negotiation
Supplements are additional line items submitted after the initial estimate: code upgrades, material cost changes, damage found during tear-off, contractor overhead. An experienced contractor handles this on your behalf – it’s normal, not a dispute.
Step 6: Recoverable Depreciation
With an RCV policy, you recover the held-back depreciation once work is complete. Your contractor submits proof of completion and the insurer releases the funds – sometimes thousands of dollars.
The Statewide Adjusters Advantage
For complex or disputed claims, a licensed Public Adjuster represents your interests exclusively. Our affiliated company, Statewide Adjusters, is a licensed PA firm available to homeowners – a rare advantage most roofing companies don’t offer. Statewide Adjusters operates independently from Statewide Restoration, ensuring your claim advocate has no conflict of interest.
Statewide Restoration serves Will, Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Grundy, Kankakee, and Kendall counties. Free inspections and claim consultations available.