After every major storm in Chicagoland, roofing companies flood the area — many from out of state — promising to "handle everything" with your insurance company. Some are legitimate. Many are not. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself and get fair coverage for your storm-damaged roof.
Beware of Storm Chasers
Contractors who show up uninvited at your door after a storm are called "storm chasers." Many travel from state to state following weather events, collect deposits, do subpar work (or no work at all), and leave town before you realize there's a problem. Warning signs: out-of-state license plates, pressure to sign immediately, offers to "cover your deductible" (this is insurance fraud), no local business address, and crews that are clearly not local employees.
How a Legitimate Insurance Claim Works
Step 1: Contact your insurance company first. File a claim and get a claim number. Your insurer will send an adjuster to assess damage.
Step 2: Get an independent inspection from a local contractor. Before the adjuster arrives, have a trusted local roofing contractor inspect your roof and document all damage with photos. This gives you leverage if the adjuster underestimates the damage.
Step 3: Be present for the adjuster visit. Have your contractor meet the adjuster at your property. An experienced contractor can point out damage that adjusters sometimes miss — particularly hail bruises on shingles that aren't obvious to untrained eyes.
Step 4: Review the scope of work. Your insurance company will provide a scope of work and dollar amount. If it doesn't cover the full replacement cost, your contractor can submit a supplement with additional documentation.
What Insurance Typically Covers
Standard Illinois homeowner's policies cover sudden storm damage (hail, wind, fallen trees) but generally don't cover wear and tear or age-related deterioration. Most policies are "replacement cost value" (RCV), meaning they cover the cost of a new roof minus your deductible. Some older or lower-cost policies are "actual cash value" (ACV), which deducts depreciation.
We've handled hundreds of insurance roofing claims across Chicagoland. Free inspection and honest assessment — no pressure, no gimmicks. Call (331) 250-3726.