Have Storm Damage & Need To File An Insurance Claim?
In places like Heritage Hill, Byron Center, Zeeland, and Lakeshore neighborhoods near Lake Macatawa, sudden weather shifts are part of life. Whether it’s spring wind gusts ripping through Kent County or a harsh lake-effect storm pounding Ottawa County, roofs across Grand Rapids and Holland can take a hit.
If you’ve recently noticed missing shingles, leaks, or other signs of storm damage to your home, you’re not alone—and you have rights when it comes to working with a roofing contractor and your insurance company.
Your Rights When Dealing with Insurance Claims
1. You Have the Right to Choose Your Own Roofing Contractor
Insurance companies might recommend someone, but it’s your home—and you get to decide who works on it. Choose a local, trusted roofer like Above Roofing, not an out-of-town company that vanishes after the job is done.
We’ve served the Grand Rapids and Holland communities for over 25 years, and we’re committed to honest, high-quality work.
2. You Deserve a Fair and Thorough Assessment
It’s your right to question a low insurance settlement. You can:
- Ask for a reinspection
- Provide additional documentation
- Bring in a contractor (like us!) to meet with your adjuster
We know the local codes, materials, and permitting rules in West Michigan—which means we’ll advocate for the right scope of work, not just the cheapest fix.
3. You’re Protected from Storm Chasers
Unfortunately, after storms hit neighborhoods like Knapp’s Corner, Zeeland’s Maple Avenue area, or Holland Heights, out-of-state contractors sometimes go door-to-door offering “free roofs.” They may:
- Pressure you into signing contracts immediately
- Say they’ll waive your deductible (a red flag for fraud)
- Offer poor-quality work and leave you with no follow-up support
We’ve heard horror stories from West Michigan homeowners who were left with improperly installed jobs and no warranty. That’s not how we do business.
At Above Roofing, we offer a lifetime workmanship warranty, stand by our work, and show up when you call—every time.
What You Should Expect from a Roofing Contractor
Hiring a roofing contractor is a big decision. Whether you’re repairing damage or replacing your entire roof, it’s important to know what a trustworthy contractor should provide. Here’s what you can reasonably expect throughout the process.
1. Clear Communication
A good roofing contractor will explain every step of the process—from inspection to final cleanup. They should answer your questions honestly, outline your options clearly, and provide written estimates. You should never feel rushed, pressured, or left in the dark.
2. Thorough Inspection
Before any work begins, expect a full roof inspection. This should include a visual assessment of shingles, flashing, ventilation, gutters, and attic conditions. The contractor should point out any damage and help you understand the urgency and options for repair or replacement.
3. Honest Recommendations
Reputable roofers won’t try to sell you something you don’t need. They’ll explain the difference between a repair and a full replacement, help you weigh your options, and guide you toward the right decision for your home and budget.
4. Detailed Written Estimate
You should receive a clear estimate that outlines:
- Materials to be used
- Scope of work
- Timeline
- Total cost
- Payment schedule
- This protects both parties and ensures there are no surprises later.
5. Permits and Insurance
Your contractor should handle necessary permits and carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation. Ask for proof. This protects you from legal or financial responsibility if something goes wrong during the project.
6. Quality Materials and Workmanship
Expect the use of high-quality roofing materials suited to your home and climate. Work should be done by trained professionals following current best practices and building codes.
7. Jobsite Safety and Cleanup
The crew should work safely and respectfully around your home. That includes keeping the site organized, protecting landscaping, and doing a full cleanup once the work is done—including stray nails and debris.
8. Warranty and Follow-Up
A trustworthy contractor will offer a workmanship warranty (separate from manufacturer warranties on materials). They should also follow up after the job is completed to ensure your satisfaction and address any concerns.
When Should You File an Insurance Claim?
- Immediately after a roof inspection that identifies storm damage
- Within your policy’s reporting window (usually 1 year from the event)
- As soon as possible, to avoid further issues like water damage or mold
Don’t wait until small problems become big ones.
Let’s Protect What Matters Most
Your home is more than a building—it’s where your life happens. And when a storm threatens that, you deserve a roofing partner that values your investment, your trust, and your time.
Call Above Roofing today at (616) 662-7663 or schedule your free inspection if you think your roof was damaged. We’ll walk you through the process and make sure you’re treated fairly every step of the way.
