Storms are becoming more frequent and severe. In 2023, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recorded 28 separate weather and climate disasters in the U.S., each causing over $1 billion in damage. Tennessee homeowners, particularly in areas like Knoxville, face heightened risks from hail, wind, and tornadic events. Your roof is the first line of defense—and often the first casualty.
Knowing how to claim roof damage after a storm is critical. From documenting the damage to navigating tricky insurance policies, your response can be the difference between a full replacement and an out-of-pocket nightmare.
Key Takeaways
💡Act fast: Most insurance policies have strict timelines (typically 12 months) for submitting a storm damage claim.
💡Document thoroughly: Take date-stamped photos and videos before repairs begin.
💡Hire a licensed roofing contractor: Professional inspection reports are crucial to validate your claim.
💡Don’t accept the first offer: You can dispute low estimates and request a second inspection.
What Qualifies as Storm-Related Roof Damage?
Storm-related roof damage typically includes:
- Wind Damage: Missing, lifted, or curling shingles
- Hail Damage: Pitted, bruised, or fractured shingles, soft metal dents
- Falling Debris: Tree limbs or other objects causing punctures or cracks
- Water Damage: Leaks and mold due to compromised roofing material
According to FEMA, over 60% of home insurance claims involve damage to roofs, making it one of the most disputed parts of a home insurance policy.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Claim Roof Damage
1. Inspect the Damage Safely
Avoid climbing on the roof yourself. Use binoculars or a drone if available. Look for:
- Shingle granules in gutters
- Visible gaps or missing materials
- Interior signs like ceiling stains or mold
Pro Tip: Litespeed Construction offers free inspections with documentation tailored for insurance claims.
2. Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Look for coverage clauses regarding “Acts of God,” “storm damage,” “hail/wind exclusions,” and “depreciation schedules.”
Tennessee law (Tenn. Code § 56-7-111) ensures that insurers must settle claims fairly and promptly—within 30 days of proof-of-loss submission.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer to initiate the claim. Request the claim number, adjuster contact, and policy deductible amount. Ask:
- Does my policy cover full roof replacement?
- Will depreciation be withheld?
- What’s the timeline for adjuster inspection?
4. Get a Professional Roofing Inspection
Call a trusted roofing company like Litespeed Construction to provide:
- A full roof assessment
- Storm damage photos
- A repair/replacement estimate
A licensed Knoxville roofer‘s report carries weight with adjusters and may include drone footage or moisture readings.
5. Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
Your roofer should be present when the adjuster arrives. They can:
- Confirm damage extent
- Advocate for full coverage
- Clarify discrepancies in assessment
6. Review the Insurance Estimate
The insurance estimate (called a “Scope of Loss”) will detail:
- Damage found
- Repairs approved
- Payout minus deductible and depreciation
If the scope is too low, request a supplement. Your roofing contractor can help challenge lowball offers with additional evidence.
7. Repair or Replace Your Roof
Once the claim is approved:
- Sign a contract with a licensed roofer
- Ensure materials match those covered in your policy
- Avoid storm-chasing contractors with no local history
Litespeed Construction guarantees quality, speed, and full compliance with your policy terms.
8. Final Inspection and Payment
Once work is complete:
- Your roofer submits a final invoice to the insurer
- Insurance sends the recoverable depreciation payment
- You pay the deductible and any uncovered upgrades
Storm Damage in Knoxville: Local Trends and Statistics
In 2023, over 8,000 insurance claims were filed in Knox County for wind and hail damage, according to the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance. Spring and summer remain peak seasons.
Knoxville’s elevation and valley winds increase vulnerability to:
- Sudden gusts exceeding 50 mph
- Microburst damage
- Hail up to 2 inches in diameter
Litespeed Construction has helped over 1,500 local homeowners successfully claim roof damage—many getting full roof replacements at minimal out-of-pocket cost.
Why Choose a Local Contractor Like Litespeed Construction
Licensed & Insured in Tennessee
Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews
Works Directly with Your Insurance Carrier
Free Storm Damage Inspections
Financing Options If Insurance Falls Short
Even if your claim is denied or partially covered, Litespeed offers third-party financing:
- As low as 6.5% APR
- $300/month for a $10,000 roof
- 48-month flexible terms
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Claim Roof Damage
- Waiting too long to file: Most policies have 12-month limits.
- Making temporary repairs without documentation
- Not verifying your roofer’s credentials
- Signing over insurance checks before work is done
FAQs: Roof Damage Insurance Claims
Between $6,500–$12,000, according to NAIC claim reports (2022).
Yes. Shingle damage, granule loss, and flashing displacement all qualify.
You can appeal, submit more documentation, or hire a public adjuster.
Possibly. Insurers may raise premiums after multiple weather claims, not just one.
Don’t Delay—Claim Roof Damage With Confidence
When storms strike, your roof takes the brunt. But getting the protection you’ve paid for doesn’t have to be a battle. With Litespeed Construction by your side, you get expert inspections, insurance-friendly documentation, and a team that fights for your full roof replacement.
📞 Call Litespeed Construction today for a free storm damage inspection or book online. We’ll help you claim roof damage the right way—before the next storm rolls in.
