Heavy winds, hail, falling tree branches. What do those things have in common? They can all cause roof damage during a storm. If your roof in Cherry Hill, NJ, took a hit recently you may even be thinking, Will insurance cover this kind of roof damage? The answer: It depends. While homeowners insurance may help ease the financial burden of roof repairs or replacement, there are certain factors that determine whether your insurance will cover the damage. At RGB Construction, we have over two decades over experience helping homeowners repair their roofs, with and without insurance.
Key Takeaways
- ✔ Homeowners insurance typically covers roof damage from sudden, accidental events like storms, fallen trees, and fire.
- ✔ If your roof is over 15-20 years old, your policy may only pay for the depreciated value, not a full replacement.
- ✔ Insurance companies may deny claims if they believe the roof was already in poor condition or if the damage is cosmetic.
- ✔ Getting a professional roof inspection and photo documentation before filing a claim can strengthen your case.
- ✔ You have the right to choose your own roofer, not the one the insurance company recommends.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually covered, what isn’t, and how to strengthen your case.
What Kinds of Roof Damage Does Insurance Typically Cover?
In most cases, homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage caused by external forces. That can include:
- Wind or hail damage
- Fallen trees or branches
- Fire or lightning strikes
- Ice or snow collapse
- Vandalism
If your roof was in good condition before the event and the damage is clearly storm-related, you may be eligible for coverage. Keep in mind, most insurance providers will require photo documentation and a professional inspection before approving any claim.
What’s Not Covered Under Most Policies?
Unfortunately, most insurance only covers accidental or sudden damage. Your insurance may deny your claim if the damage falls under one of these categories:
- Wear and tear or age-related deterioration
- Neglected maintenance, such as clogged gutters or missing shingles
- Cosmetic damages
- Damage caused by improper installation or prior work
Also, if your roof is older than 15-20 years, your policy may only cover the actual cash value (ACV) of the roof. Due to depreciation, you may receive reduced payout.
Step-by-Step: What Cherry Hill Homeowners Should Do After Roof Damage
Need some help getting your roof damage repaired? Here’s some steps to follow to ensure your roof gets repaired as soon as possible:
1. Inspect the Damage from the Ground
Safety comes first. After a storm, walk the perimeter of your home and assess the roof from a safe distance. Look for missing shingles, exposed underlayment, cracked or dented flashing, fallen tree limbs, or debris. Even small signs like lifted shingles or gutter damage can indicate larger issues underneath.
2. Take Photos Immediately
Grab your phone or camera and document everything thoroughly. Take wide shots of the entire roof, close-ups of visible damage, and any interior signs of leaks, like ceiling stains or damp attic insulation. If possible, record the date and time of the storm and damage. These photos will be key when filing a claim and can help prove that the damage was sudden, not due to neglect.
3. Contact a Local Roofing Contractor First
Before calling your insurance company, get a professional roof inspection from RGB Construction. We’ll assess the damage and provide a detailed report, complete with photos and repair estimates. This unbiased evaluation gives you leverage when meeting with your adjuster and ensures the full scope of damage is documented from the start.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
File your claim promptly. Most policies require you to report damage within 6 to 12 months. When you call, have your policy number, storm date, and documentation ready. Provide them with the inspection report from RGB Construction, which often speeds up the approval process.
5. Meet With The Insurance Adjuster
After filing, your insurer will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. RGB Construction is happy to meet them onsite. Our presence ensures nothing is overlooked—especially subtle or developing issues—and we can advocate for fair coverage based on your policy and the damage we’ve found.
Pro Tip from RGB Construction
Insurance adjusters aren’t roofing professionals—and they might miss subtle or hidden roof damage. Before your adjuster arrives, schedule a full roof inspection with RGB Construction. We’ll provide documentation that helps strengthen your claim and ensure nothing gets overlooked—especially in Cherry Hill and surrounding South Jersey towns.
6. Review the Claim Offer
Once you receive the claim estimate, compare it to our repair proposal. Ensure that all needed repairs—shingles, underlayment, flashing, decking, etc.—are included. If the offer seems low or incomplete, don’t panic. RGB Construction can help you request a supplemental claim or reinspection
Why You Need a Roofing Contractor on Your Side
Roofing companies in New Jersey know roofs. Sure, that may sound like common knowledge, but that also means they’re going to work for you. On the other hand, insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and have minimal roofing knowledge. That’s why having a reputable local roofer like RGB Construction on your side is so important. We help:
- Identify all storm-related damage (even the subtle stuff)
- Provide detailed reports and photos for your claim
- Advocate for fair payouts
- Handle emergency repairs and full replacements when needed
You Choose Your Roofer, Not The Insurance Company
In New Jersey, you’re not obligated to use the contractor your insurance provider recommends. In fact, many homeowners prefer to use an independent roofer they trust. RGB Construction is locally owned and fully licensed, with decades of experience helping Cherry Hill families restore their homes after storms.
Roof Damage & Insurance FAQ — Cherry Hill, NJ
1. Will homeowners insurance cover all roof damage?
Only if the damage is sudden and accidental. Storms, fallen trees, and fire are typically covered. Wear and tear or neglect is not.
2. Is cosmetic roof damage covered in Cherry Hill?
Usually not. If the damage is purely cosmetic, like discolored shingles, your insurer may deny the claim—even if it could impact performance over time.
3. What happens if my roof is 20+ years old?
Older roofs may only be reimbursed for actual cash value (ACV), not full replacement cost. That means a lower payout due to depreciation.
4. Should I call RGB Construction before my insurance company?
Yes. Our roof inspection and photo documentation help strengthen your insurance claim and ensure a fair assessment of all storm-related roof damage in Cherry Hill.
5. How soon do I need to file a claim after storm damage?
Most policies require claims within 6–12 months of the event. The sooner you act, the better your chance of approval.
6. Will the adjuster handle everything fairly?
Adjusters work for your insurance provider—not for you. RGB Construction helps ensure that your needs are fully represented in the process.
7. Do I have to use the roofer my insurer recommends?
No. You have the legal right to choose your own roofer. RGB Construction works for you, not your insurance company.
8. How can I get started with roof repairs?
Contact RGB Construction for a free inspection. We’ll document the damage, meet with your adjuster, and guide you through every step of the repair process in Cherry Hill and South Jersey.
Need Help with Roof Damage in Cherry Hill? Call RGB Construction
If your home was hit by a storm, sustaining roof damage, and you’re not sure what to do next, let RGB Construction help. We’ll inspect your roof, document the damage, and guide you through the insurance claim process with honesty and transparency. No pressure. No surprises. Just the help you need—when you need it most.
Call 856-264-9093 or schedule your consultation by filling out the online form today.
