How to Claim on Home Insurance for Storm Damaged Roof
Insurance cover varies by policy, the cause of the damage and the condition of the roof. Contact your insurer as soon as possible, record visible damage safely and ask what evidence it needs before authorising work where possible.
Key takeaways
- Keep people safe first and contact your insurer for advice on temporary repairs.
- Photograph everything from the ground (do not get on the roof).
- Get a written quote with itemised parts and labour.
- Notify your insurer promptly and follow the timescale in your policy.
- If rejected, ask why in writing and consider an ombudsman complaint.
Step 1: Keep people safe
Keep people away from fallen material, a bulging ceiling and any water near electrics. Contact your insurer for advice before arranging temporary repairs where possible. Keep every receipt and invoice.
Step 2: Document the damage
Photographs from the ground with timestamp. Photos of any tiles that have come down. Internal water damage. Get your roofer to photograph from the roof level.
Step 3: Notify the insurer
Contact your insurer promptly and follow the notification timescale in your policy. Get a claim reference number. Ask whether it wants to assess the damage before you arrange permanent work.
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Step 4: Get a written quote
Ask for a detailed written quote that describes the proposed work, materials and access. Ask your insurer how many quotes or photographs it needs.
Step 5: Common rejection reasons
Wear and tear (not covered, only sudden damage). Pre existing condition. Failure to maintain (blocked gutters, cracked mortar). Late notification. If you think rejection is wrong, ask in writing and escalate to the Financial Ombudsman if needed.
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About the author
David Boardman founded Boardman Roofing in 2018. Dave has 25 years on the tools. Read 150+ Google reviews or call 07879 736629.
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150+ Google reviews. Dave has 25 years on the tools.
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