Understanding the Roofing Insurance Claim Process

When a storm or fire damages your roof, dealing with insurance can feel overwhelming. Between documenting damage, filing claims, and negotiating with adjusters, it’s easy to feel lost — especially when your home is exposed to the elements.

At Cigna Roofing, we’ve been helping Long Island homeowners navigate insurance roofing claims for 24 years. Here’s what you need to know about the process.

Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately

As soon as it’s safe, take photos and video of any visible damage — both to your roof and any interior water damage. Document everything, even if it seems minor. This becomes critical evidence for your insurance claim.

Don’t attempt to climb onto your roof. Damaged roofs are dangerous. Call a professional roofer for a safe, thorough inspection.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company

File your claim as soon as possible. Most insurance policies have time limits for reporting damage. When you call, have your policy number ready and provide a general description of the damage.

Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your claim. This is the person who will inspect your roof and determine what the insurance company will cover.

Step 3: Get a Professional Roof Inspection

Before the adjuster arrives, have a professional roofer inspect your roof and document all damage. A thorough inspection catches damage that’s not visible from the ground — damaged underlayment, compromised flashing, soft spots in the decking, and more.

At Cigna Roofing, we provide free storm damage inspections and create detailed documentation that supports your claim.

Step 4: Meet the Adjuster On-Site

This is a critical step that many homeowners handle alone — and it shouldn’t be. Your roofing contractor should be present when the adjuster inspects your roof. An experienced roofer can point out damage that an adjuster might miss or undervalue.

We meet your adjuster for you. Our 24 years of experience working with insurance companies means we know what to look for and how to communicate it effectively.

Step 5: Review the Estimate

After the inspection, your insurance company will provide an estimate of what they’ll cover. Review this carefully with your roofer. Sometimes the initial estimate doesn’t account for all necessary repairs.

If the estimate seems low, your roofer can help you file a supplemental claim with additional documentation. This is common and completely normal.

Step 6: Approve and Schedule the Work

Once the claim is approved and the scope of work is agreed upon, it’s time to schedule the repair or replacement. A good roofing contractor will handle the project efficiently and minimize the time your home is exposed.

Common Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to file. Most policies have strict deadlines.
• Not documenting damage immediately. Photos and video are your best evidence.
• Meeting the adjuster alone. Always have your roofer present.
• Accepting the first estimate without review. Supplemental claims exist for a reason.
• Hiring a contractor who asks for the full insurance check upfront. Reputable contractors don’t operate this way.

How Cigna Roofing Helps

We handle the entire insurance claim process for Long Island homeowners:

1. Free inspection and damage documentation
2. We file and manage your insurance claim
3. We meet your adjuster on-site
4. Emergency tarping to prevent further damage
5. Complete repair or replacement once approved
6. Full warranty on all work performed

Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible so you can focus on your family while we handle your roof.

Need Help With an Insurance Claim?

If your roof has been damaged by a storm or fire, contact Cigna Roofing for a free inspection. We’ll document the damage, guide you through the claim process, and get your roof repaired or replaced quickly.

Schedule a free inspection or call us for immediate assistance.