How to File a Roof Insurance Claim in Alabama (Step-by-Step)

Dealing with storm damage is stressful, and the insurance process isn't always straightforward. This is a plain-English walkthrough of how it works in Alabama, what to do at each step, and what to watch out for.

Step 1: Don't go on your roof

After a storm, resist the urge to climb up and look. Storm-damaged roofing can be unstable. Walking on it can create additional damage that complicates your claim. Let a professional inspect it.

Step 2: Document visible damage from the ground

Before anyone comes out, photograph everything you can see from the ground: gutters, downspouts, AC unit, window screens, siding, fencing, vehicles. These items show the size and intensity of the hail and are useful evidence when your adjuster visits.

Note the date and time of the storm. Check the National Weather Service storm reports for your area. These can be referenced in your claim. (NWS storm reports are available at weather.gov and are admissible as evidence in insurance disputes)

Step 3: Get a professional roof inspection

Have a roofing contractor inspect your roof before you file a claim. A thorough inspection with photos creates a documented record of the damage tied to the storm event.

This documentation matters. When the adjuster visits, you want the damage clearly recorded, not relying on the adjuster's notes alone. BayCo provides photo documentation as part of every inspection.

Step 4: File your claim

Contact your insurance company (phone or their app/website) to open a claim. You'll need:

• Your policy number
• Date and type of storm event
• Description of the visible damage
• Your contact information for the adjuster scheduling

File as soon as possible. Most policies require claims to be filed within a year of the event, but sooner is always better.

Step 5: The adjuster visit

Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage in person. You (or your contractor) should be present. The adjuster's report determines whether the damage is covered and the estimated cost to repair or replace.

BayCo can be present during adjuster visits to share our documentation and answer technical questions. We don't argue with adjusters. We make sure the damage is accurately represented.

Step 6: Review your settlement

The adjuster's report produces a settlement estimate. Key things to check:

• ACV vs. RCV: Actual Cash Value pays depreciated value; Replacement Cost Value pays full replacement cost minus deductible. RCV policies pay out significantly more for older roofs.
• Scope of work: Does the estimate include all damaged components? Flashing, decking, underlayment, and accessories should be listed if affected.
• Supplement process: If the adjuster missed damage or underestimated scope, you can request a supplemental review. Your contractor's documentation supports this.

Step 7: Choose your contractor and schedule the work

You are not required to use a contractor chosen by your insurance company. You can choose whoever you want. Get a written estimate from your contractor and confirm it aligns with the insurance settlement before signing anything.

You pay your deductible directly to the contractor. Insurance pays its portion separately (sometimes in two checks for RCV policies: one upfront, one after the work is complete).

Red flags to avoid

• Deductible waivers: Illegal in Alabama under Alabama Code § 27-14-27. Any contractor who offers to cover, waive, or rebate your deductible is committing insurance fraud. Walk away.
• Assignment of Benefits (AOB): Be cautious about signing documents that transfer your insurance rights to a contractor before you understand what you're agreeing to.
• “Storm chasers”: Out-of-state contractors who appear after major storms and disappear after the job are a risk. Verify licensing, insurance, and local references before signing.

“We've been present on hundreds of adjuster visits. The ones that go smoothly are always the ones where the homeowner has professional documentation ready to go, not just their own phone photos. Adjusters are doing their job, but they're also working fast. Our job is to make sure nothing gets missed.”

What BayCo does (and doesn't do)

BayCo will inspect your roof, document the damage with photos, and be present during the adjuster visit to ensure the damage is accurately captured. We don't promise your claim will be approved. That's your insurance company's call. What we can promise is that you'll have the documentation to give your claim the best shot.

Have storm damage? See BayCo's storm damage and insurance claims service or book a free inspection.