Imagine waking up after a rough Minnesota storm—branches scattered, shingles missing, and hail dents on your roof. Your first thought?
How bad is the damage, and how much is this going to cost me?
The good news?
Homeowners insurance can help cover the repairs—but only if you navigate the claims process correctly. Missing a step could mean delays, reduced payouts, or even a denied claim.
To help Twin Cities homeowners get the coverage they deserve, we’ve put together six essential tips for filing an insurance claim the right way. Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways
- Understand your policy before filing to avoid surprises.
- Take clear photos and keep records to strengthen your claim.
- Get contractor estimates to ensure fair insurance compensation.
- Stay organized with paperwork, deadlines, and communications.
- Review your payout carefully and negotiate if it’s too low.
How to Make Sure Your Homeowner Insurance Claim Gets Approved?
Many Twin Cities homeowners assume their insurer will cover roof damage—until they face a denied insurance claim or a low payout.
The key? Filing it the right way.
Follow these six must-know tips to get the coverage you deserve without the hassle.
1. Know Your Policy Before You File
The worst time to learn what your insurance covers is after your roof is damaged.
Many Twin Cities homeowners assume their policy will handle everything, only to find out too late that there are deductibles, exclusions, or strict filing deadlines. So here are things to take note of:
- Check your coverage – Does your policy pay for full replacement or just repairs? Are there exclusions for hail or wind damage?
- Know your deductible – Some policies have higher deductibles for storm-related damage, which is common in the Twin Cities.
- Be aware of deadlines – Some insurers require claims to be filed within days or weeks of the damage occurring.
Quick Tip: Ice dams are a big problem in Minnesota winters. Not all policies cover ice dam removal or related damage, so check your policy before winter hits!
2. Document Everything Immediately
The more proof you have, the stronger your claim. As soon as it’s safe, start gathering evidence to back up your case. Start documenting:
- Photograph and video record – Capture clear images and videos of all visible damage from multiple angles. This visual evidence is crucial for substantiating your claim.
- Incident details – Note the date and time of the damage. Cross-reference with local weather reports to validate the occurrence of the storm or event.
- Maintenance records – Keep documentation of regular upkeep and any previous repairs. This demonstrates that the damage resulted from the recent event and not from neglect or pre-existing issues.
Quick Tip: Hail and wind storms are common in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Even if you don’t see obvious damage, take photos anyway—loosened shingles and hidden leaks can cause bigger problems later.
3. Get Estimates from Licensed Contractors
Before settling with your insurance company, get an independent estimate from a licensed roofing contractor in the Twin Cities.
Insurance adjusters may overlook the full extent of damage, leading to undervalued repair costs. An independent assessment helps ensure fair compensation.
Licensed contractors can identify hidden issues, such as structural weaknesses or leaks, which might not be immediately visible. Their expertise guarantees compliance with local building codes and access to the Contractor Recovery Fund, protecting homeowners from contractor misconduct.
At Twin Cities Siding and Roofing, we provide detailed storm damage assessments and work closely with Twin Cities homeowners to ensure they receive the coverage they deserve.
4. Start Filing Your Claim ASAP
Once you’ve gathered photos, estimates, and damage reports, don’t delay. File your claim as soon as possible.
Insurance companies process claims in the order they receive them, so waiting too long could mean longer repair timelines or even a denied claim if deadlines are missed.
When ready to file a claim, start with these steps:
- Call your insurance company – Start the claim process online or over the phone. Ask what documents they need and get a clear timeline of the next steps.
- Submit all documentation – Include photos, contractor estimates, and any required forms to back up your claim. The more thorough your submission, the fewer delays you’ll face.
- Schedule an inspection – Your insurer will send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be present during this visit to ensure they see all affected areas.
Quick Tip: After a major storm, insurance companies get flooded with claims. Filing early gives you priority for inspections and repairs, helping you avoid long delays.
5. Keep All Your Claim Documents Organized
Losing paperwork or missing a deadline can delay your claim, and delay means waiting longer for your roof repairs. Staying organized makes the process smoother and helps you avoid setbacks.
Start by creating a digital folder on your phone or computer where you can store all the important documents.
Here’s a quick checklist that you can use for documentation:
Photos and videos of roof damage (before and after repairs)- Contractor estimates and invoices
- Insurance claim forms and policy details
- Emails and written communication with your insurer
- Adjuster reports and claim approval documents
- Receipts for any temporary repairs or out-of-pocket expenses
- Inspection dates, claim filing dates, and follow-up deadlines
Quick Tip: If you’re working with a roofing contractor, ask them to help document damage and communicate with your insurance adjuster. Many experienced contractors know what insurers look for and can make the process easier for you.
Simplify the Process and Stay Focused
Filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into steps makes it much more manageable.
Start with documentation, get repair estimates, and then file your claim. One step at a time.
When you receive your insurance payout, don’t accept the first offer right away. Review it carefully to make sure it covers all necessary repairs. If it seems low, compare it with contractor estimates and negotiate if needed.
Having a trusted Twin Cities roofing contractor on your side can make the process easier. They can help document damage, communicate with your adjuster, and ensure you get the coverage you deserve.
File Your Insurance Claim with Confidence
Filing a homeowners insurance claim doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding your policy, documenting damage, getting contractor estimates, and staying organized, you can streamline the process and ensure you receive the coverage you deserve.
At Twin Cities Siding and Roofing, we’re here to guide you through every stage, from damage assessments to working with your insurance adjuster.
Ready to get started?
Call us at 651-571-9557 for a free estimate and expert assistance. Let’s make sure your roof gets the care it needs without the hassle.
