Florida homeowners know how quickly a storm can turn from harmless to destructive. From summer downpours and hail to hurricane-force winds, your roof takes the brunt of the damage. When leaks or missing shingles appear, filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge (and the right contractor by your side), the process doesn’t have to be.
At Eave & Gable Roofing, our goal is to make sure homeowners understand their options, recognize legitimate storm damage, and avoid costly mistakes when working with insurance companies. If you’ve read our article Top 5 Signs You Need a Roof Replacement in Central Florida, you already know how small issues can grow into major structural problems. This guide walks you through every step of the Florida roof-damage insurance-claim process and explains how a qualified roofing contractor – like us 😉 – can help.
Step 1: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
After a storm, many homeowners are unsure whether the damage is severe enough for an insurance claim. That’s where a professional roof inspection is important.
Our trained inspectors use drone imagery and detailed documentation to identify hail bruising, lifted shingles, cracked tiles, and hidden water intrusion; the kinds of issues an adjuster might overlook in a quick visual check.
Requesting an inspection from a licensed roofing contractor before contacting your insurer gives you a clear, unbiased assessment of your roof’s true condition. You can learn more about our inspection process on our Roof Inspections page.
Step 2: Review Your Insurance Policy
Every homeowner’s insurance policy is different. Before filing, locate your declarations page and look for:
- Deductible amount – how much you’ll pay out-of-pocket before coverage begins.
- Wind and hail coverage – common in Florida but sometimes listed separately.
- Age and material clauses – some policies prorate coverage for older roofs.
- Exclusions – such as wear-and-tear or maintenance issues.
If you’re uncertain about policy language, your roofing contractor can help interpret what types of damage are typically considered claim-worthy versus maintenance-related.
Step 3: File Your Claim Promptly
Florida law generally gives homeowners one year from the date of loss to file a property-damage claim, though acting quickly is best. Provide your insurance company with:
- The date and type of event (hailstorm, hurricane, wind).
- Photos or videos of visible roof damage.
- Your contractor’s inspection report.
An adjuster will then schedule a visit to evaluate the property. This is where having Eave & Gable Roofing‘s claims experts on your side can make a big difference.
Step 4: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
The insurance adjuster’s job is to determine whether the damage meets your policy’s criteria for repair or replacement. However, adjusters often inspect dozens of roofs a week and may miss subtler forms of storm impact, especially to tile or metal systems common in Central Florida.
By having your roofing contractor present during the adjuster meeting, you gain an advocate who:
- Points out hidden or borderline damage that deserves coverage.
- Provides precise measurements, material details, and replacement costs.
- Ensures the inspection is thorough and fairly documented.
Our team routinely works alongside adjusters to ensure homeowners aren’t shortchanged simply because certain details went unnoticed.
Step 5: Review the Insurance Estimate
Once your claim is processed, you’ll receive an estimate (scope of loss) listing covered repairs, materials, and costs. Review this document carefully:
- Confirm that all damage found in your inspection is included.
- Verify that the listed materials match your existing roof type.
- Ask your contractor to compare the estimate to actual market pricing.
If any legitimate damage was omitted, your roofer can prepare supplemental documentation and photos to support a claim adjustment. Eave & Gable’s experience with Florida carriers helps ensure the estimate truly reflects what’s required for a long-lasting repair or replacement.
Step 6: Choose a Qualified Roofing Contractor
Once the claim is approved, you’ll select a contractor to perform the work. Insurance policies allow you to choose any licensed roofing professional—you’re not required to use the carrier’s preferred vendor.
When selecting, look for:
- Florida licensing and insurance.
- A strong local reputation and verified reviews.
- Clear communication and detailed contracts.
At Eave & Gable Roofing, we handle every aspect of the replacement, including permits, inspections, and warranty registration, so homeowners can focus on peace of mind. Explore our Roof Replacements page for an overview of our process and material options.
Step 7: Complete Repairs and Final Documentation
During installation, your contractor should maintain ongoing communication with both you and the insurer. Once the work is complete, request:
- Final photos documenting the finished roof.
- Warranties for materials and workmanship.
- Completion certificates required by your insurance company.
Submitting this documentation closes the claim and ensures your home remains fully insured under the new roof.
Step 8: Maintain Your Roof for Future Coverage
Insurance companies value responsible homeowners who carefully maintain their property. Annual inspections and maintenance (especially after major storms) show that you’re protecting your investment.
Schedule a free inspection each year to identify minor issues before they become major claims. For homeowners throughout Lake County, Orange County and all parts of Central Florida our maintenance and inspection services provide ongoing protection from Florida’s harsh weather cycles.
How Eave & Gable Helps You Navigate the Process
Dealing with roof damage is stressful enough without the added complexity of insurance forms and adjuster visits. As a trusted Central Florida roofing company, Eave & Gable Roofing acts as your guide from the first inspection to the final shingle.
Here’s how we help homeowners succeed with insurance claims:
- Damage identification: We document every legitimate sign of storm impact, ensuring nothing is missed.
- Adjuster coordination: Our team meets adjusters on-site to advocate for fair coverage.
- Clear communication: We explain each stage of the process in plain terms.
- Professional workmanship: Once approved, we complete your roof using top-grade materials rated for Florida weather.
- After-service support: We remain available for future inspections, maintenance, or warranty concerns.
Our mission is simple: protecting homes, simplifying the process, and restoring your roof’s strength and beauty with integrity.
Filing an insurance claim for roof damage doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right knowledge and a reliable contractor, you can ensure the process is smooth and your coverage is used to its fullest benefit.
If your Florida home has recently weathered a storm, don’t wait until minor leaks become major expenses. Contact Eave & Gable Roofing today for a free inspection and expert guidance on whether your roof damage may qualify for an insurance claim.