Filing a roof insurance claim in Florida can feel overwhelming — especially after a storm when you’re dealing with water damage, stress, and a long list of things that need fixing. But getting it right can mean the difference between a $500 out-of-pocket deductible and paying $15,000+ for a full replacement yourself.

Here’s exactly how the process works, what to watch out for, and how to maximize your claim.

Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately

Do this within 24-48 hours of the storm:

• Take photos and video of all visible damage from ground level — roof, gutters, siding, screens, fencing
• Photograph any interior damage: ceiling stains, water marks, wet insulation
• Note the date and time of the storm
• Save any weather alerts or news reports about the event
• Do NOT climb on your roof. It’s dangerous on a damaged roof, and your insurance doesn’t need you up there

Pro tip: Use your phone’s burst mode and take more photos than you think you need. Timestamps are automatically recorded.

Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company

File your claim as soon as possible — most Florida policies require notice within a “reasonable time,” but sooner is always better.

When you call:
– Have your policy number ready
– Reference the specific storm date
– Ask for your claim number and write it down
– Ask about your deductible amount
– Ask about “loss of use” coverage if you can’t stay in the home
– Do NOT accept a phone settlement. Insist on an in-person adjuster visit.

Step 3: Get a Licensed Contractor Inspection

Before the insurance adjuster arrives, have a licensed roofing contractor inspect your roof. This is critical because:

• A contractor knows what damage looks like and where to find hidden issues
• The contractor’s inspection report provides professional documentation
• Your contractor can be present when the adjuster visits to point out damage that might otherwise be missed

This inspection should be free. Any legitimate roofing contractor will inspect storm damage at no cost. If someone charges for a post-storm inspection, find someone else.

Step 4: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster will schedule a visit, usually within 1-3 weeks (longer after major storms). Here’s how to prepare:

• Have your contractor present. They speak the adjuster’s technical language and can advocate for you.
• Provide your photos and documentation
• Point out all damage — interior and exterior
• Ask the adjuster to check both sides of the roof, all penetrations, and flashings
• Get a copy of the adjuster’s report

Key Florida law: Under Florida Statute 627.7015, you have the right to have your own contractor or public adjuster present during the inspection.

Step 5: Review the Insurance Estimate

The insurance company will send an estimate. Review it carefully:

• Compare it to your contractor’s estimate. Significant differences are common and negotiable.
• Check that all damaged areas are included
• Verify they’re using current material costs (not outdated pricing)
• Look for “depreciation” deductions — you may be able to recover this amount after repairs are completed (recoverable depreciation)
• Check for code upgrade coverage — Florida code requirements may have changed since your roof was installed, and the insurance should cover upgrades required by current code

Step 6: Negotiate If Needed

If the insurance estimate is significantly lower than your contractor’s estimate:

1. Submit a supplement — your contractor prepares a detailed line-item estimate showing the actual cost
2. Request a re-inspection with your contractor present
3. If still unresolved, consider filing a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services
4. As a last resort, consult with a public adjuster or attorney specializing in insurance claims

Important: Florida law gives you 2 years from the date of loss to file a roof damage claim (reduced from 3 years under recent legislation). Don’t wait.

Common Mistakes That Kill Claims

🚫 Waiting too long to file. Even small damage should be reported promptly.

🚫 Making permanent repairs before the adjuster visits. Emergency tarping is fine (and expected), but don’t replace the roof before documentation is complete.

🚫 Signing an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) without reading it. An AOB transfers your insurance rights to a third party. Some are legitimate; many are predatory. Read carefully.

🚫 Accepting the first offer without question. Insurance companies are businesses. Their first estimate often leaves room for negotiation.

🚫 Hiring an unlicensed contractor. Your insurance company can deny a claim if work is done by an unlicensed contractor. Always verify at myfloridalicense.com.

How Corvex Roofing Helps

We handle storm damage claims every week. Here’s what we do for our customers:

1. Free post-storm inspection with detailed photo documentation
2. Meet with your insurance adjuster to ensure all damage is captured
3. Prepare supplement estimates if the insurance offer is too low
4. Handle the paperwork — we work directly with your insurance company
5. Bill insurance directly — you only pay your deductible

We don’t pressure you to sign anything the day we show up. We don’t demand upfront payment. We do honest work and let the results speak for themselves.

Think Your Roof Has Storm Damage?

Don’t wait for the next storm to make it worse. A free inspection takes 30 minutes and gives you documentation you’ll need if you do file a claim.

Schedule your free storm damage inspection →

Or call us: (855) 646-3204

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Corvex Roofing I LLC dba G and G Roofing | 456 Gus Hipp Blvd, Rockledge, FL 32955 | FL License #CCC1337099