The Do’s and Don’ts of Insurance Claims
What Homeowners Should (and Shouldn’t) Do During an Exterior Insurance Project
Filing an insurance claim after storm damage can feel overwhelming. Between adjusters, estimates, paperwork, and contractors offering different advice, it’s easy for homeowners to make decisions that unintentionally delay their project or jeopardize coverage.
While every claim is different, there are clear do’s and don’ts that apply to most exterior insurance projects — especially roofing, siding, windows, and storm-related repairs.
Understanding these best practices can help you protect your home, your policy, and your peace of mind.
✅ DO: Report Damage Promptly
As soon as you suspect storm or impact damage, contact your insurance company to start the claim.
Waiting too long can:
- Raise questions about when the damage occurred
- Create coverage disputes
- Allow damage to worsen (which may not be covered)
Even if you’re unsure how severe the damage is, reporting early protects your position.
❌ DON’T: Assume the Adjuster’s First Estimate Is Final
Insurance estimates are written based on visible damage, often before materials are removed.
Exterior projects frequently uncover:
- Damaged roof decking or sheathing
- Moisture intrusion behind siding
- Code-required upgrades
- Improper prior installations
It is normal — and expected — for supplements, depreciation recovery, or PWI items to be addressed after work begins.
✅ DO: Choose a Contractor Experienced With Insurance Claims
Insurance restoration is not the same as retail remodeling.
A qualified exterior insurance contractor understands:
- Policy language (ACV vs RCV)
- Depreciation and PWI items
- Code compliance
- Proper documentation and invoicing
- Communication with adjusters
This experience helps prevent delays, payment gaps, and coverage issues.
❌ DON’T: Let a Contractor “Handle Everything” Without Transparency
Be cautious of contractors who:
- Ask you to sign blank contracts
- Promise to “waive” deductibles
- Refuse to explain insurance paperwork
- Submit documents to your insurer without your knowledge
Homeowners are the policyholders — and ultimately responsible for what is submitted under their claim.
Transparency matters.
✅ DO: Understand What You Are Financially Responsible For
In a standard exterior insurance claim, homeowners are typically responsible for:
- Their deductible
- Any elective upgrades beyond the insurance scope
You are not typically responsible for:
- Recoverable depreciation (once work is completed)
- Approved PWI items that are incurred and documented
If something doesn’t make sense, ask questions early — before work begins.
❌ DON’T: Make Permanent Repairs Before the Claim Is Documented
Temporary repairs to prevent further damage are encouraged.
Permanent repairs completed before inspection or documentation can:
- Reduce the amount your insurance will pay
- Make it difficult to prove the original damage
- Complicate or void parts of your claim
Always confirm next steps with your insurer or contractor before proceeding.
✅ DO: Keep Records and Communication Organized
Insurance claims involve multiple moving parts.
Helpful items to keep:
- Photos and videos of damage
- Copies of estimates and scopes
- Emails with adjusters and contractors
- Invoices and proof of completion
Good documentation protects you if questions arise later.
❌ DON’T: Confuse Insurance Scopes With Construction Contracts
An insurance estimate is not a construction contract.
Insurance scopes:
- Reflect what the carrier believes is covered
- May not include everything required to restore the home correctly
A contractor’s scope:
- Addresses code compliance
- Includes proper installation methods
- Accounts for real-world conditions
The two should work together — but they are not the same document.
✅ DO: Ask About Code Upgrades and Permits
Exterior projects often trigger:
- Building code updates
- Wind or fastening requirements
- Ice & water shield or flashing upgrades
- Permitting requirements
Many of these items are covered by insurance when required by code — but only if properly documented.
❌ DON’T: Rush Decisions Under Pressure
Storm events often attract high-pressure sales tactics.
Red flags include:
- “Sign today or lose coverage”
- “Insurance will deny you if you wait”
- “We don’t need permits”
- “We’ll match whatever insurance pays — no questions”
A reputable contractor allows time for informed decisions.
✅ DO: Understand That Insurance Is Meant to Restore — Not Upgrade
Insurance policies are designed to return your home to its pre-loss condition, not to fund renovations.
Upgrades like:
- Premium materials
- Design changes
- Additional features
Are typically homeowner-funded — and should be clearly separated from insurance work.
Final Takeaway
Insurance claims don’t have to be adversarial or confusing — but they do require informed decisions.
Following these do’s and don’ts can help homeowners:
- Avoid coverage mistakes
- Prevent delays
- Protect claim funds
- Complete exterior projects with confidence
The right contractor doesn’t just build — they educate, communicate, and protect the homeowner throughout the process.
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