Prepare a roof claim with safe documentation, prompt communication and written records. Your insurer decides coverage and payment under your policy. A roofer can help describe roof conditions and repair costs; an inspection does not guarantee an approved claim.
1. Stay safe and record what you can see
Keep away from damaged roof areas, unstable ceilings and electrical hazards. Take photographs from a safe location, note when you first observed the problem, and record rooms or exterior areas affected. Leave climbing and roof access to qualified professionals.
2. Contact your insurer about requirements
Have your policy number, property address and a description of the damage ready. Ask about reporting deadlines, the applicable deductible, how to submit photographs and estimates, and the next steps in the inspection process. Keep the claim number and the name of your contact.
Do not postpone contacting your insurer while waiting for every repair detail. Reporting requirements vary by policy.
3. Limit further damage and keep receipts
Ask about appropriate temporary protection and the documentation the insurer needs. Arrange safe temporary work when necessary, document conditions before repairs when possible, and retain receipts. Ask the insurer before discarding damaged materials or authorizing permanent work that could affect its inspection.
4. Obtain a written roofing assessment
A useful roofing estimate identifies the areas involved, proposed materials and the work included. Ask the contractor to explain whether a targeted repair is feasible and what conditions could change the scope. Photographs and clear descriptions are more helpful than promises about what insurance will pay.
If it would help clarify the roof findings, ask whether the contractor can attend the insurer’s inspection. Contractor attendance is not a requirement for every claim and does not determine the outcome.
5. Review the insurer’s written response
Compare the roof areas, quantities and work described in the insurance estimate with the contractor’s assessment. Ask your insurer to explain differences, depreciation, your deductible and any documents needed for additional review. If coverage is denied or limited, request the policy provisions and reasoning in writing.
For unresolved insurance questions, use the New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance’s consumer assistance resources.
6. Agree on the work before scheduling
Review the written contract, materials, payment terms, exclusions and proposed timing. Weather, material availability, roof condition and the agreed scope can affect scheduling. Keep copies of the contract, invoices, claim correspondence and completion photographs.
All About Roofing & Construction can discuss roof inspections and repair options in Clovis and surrounding Eastern New Mexico. Request a roofing estimate, check questions to ask about coverage, or read our roof insurance overview.