Here is the short answer:

After a storm, you should generally call a local, trusted contractor for an inspection before filing an insurance claim. A contractor can confirm if there is enough damage to warrant a claim, preventing you from filing a "zero-payout" claim that acts as a black mark on your record and could still raise your premiums.

The Full Guide: Navigating the Chaos After a Storm

The hail has stopped falling, the wind has died down, and you are standing in your driveway looking at a few shingles on the lawn. What now?

Most homeowners instinctively reach for the phone to call their insurance agent. It feels like the responsible thing to do. However, in many cases, calling your insurance company first can be a costly mistake.

Here is the step-by-step process we recommend to protect your home and your wallet.

1. The "Safe" Inspection (Keep Your Feet on the Ground)

Before you call anyone, take a quick look yourself—but stay safe.

  • Walk the perimeter: Look for shingles on the grass, dents in your gutters or downspouts, or damage to window screens (hail that damages a roof often damages screens first).

  • Check the attic: If it is safe to do so, pop your head in the attic during daylight. Can you see sunlight coming through the boards? Do you see wet insulation?

  • Do NOT climb a ladder. We cannot stress this enough. Roofs are dangerous, especially after a storm. Leave the climbing to the pros.


2. Why Call a Contractor Before Insurance?

Insurance policies are strict. If your damage is less than your deductible (e.g., you have $800 in damage but a $1,000 deductible), the insurance company pays nothing.

  • The Problem: Even if they pay nothing, the act of you calling to file a claim gets recorded as a "claim incident." Too many of these can raise your premiums or cause your policy to be non-renewed.

  • The Solution: Call Stan’s Roofing & Siding for a free storm inspection first. We will tell you honestly: "This is just $300 of repair work; don't file a claim" OR "This is major total-roof damage; you need to call your agent immediately."


3. How to Spot a "Storm Chaser" (Scam Alert)

After a big storm, you will likely hear knocks on your door. These are often "Storm Chasers", out-of-state contractors who follow weather maps to sell quick jobs and then leave town.

  • Red Flag #1: They demand cash upfront.

  • Red Flag #2: They have out-of-state license plates on their truck.

  • Red Flag #3: They offer to "pay your deductible" for you (This is insurance fraud and is illegal in Illinois).

Always ask: "Where is your office located?" If they can't give you a local address, say no thank you.


4. The Insurance Process: Simplified

If our inspection confirms you have significant damage, here is how the process works:

  1. You call your claims hotline (we can help you with the terminology to use).

  2. The Adjuster Meeting: An insurance adjuster will visit your home to verify the damage. 

  3. The Approval: Once approved, we schedule the work and restore your home to better-than-new condition.


Need a Free Storm Assessment?

Don't guess with your biggest asset.
Call Stan’s Roofing & Siding (708) 448-4100 for an honest, no-obligation inspection before you make that call to your insurance agent.