Should I Call a Roofer or My Insurance Company First?

In most cases it makes sense to have a roofer inspect and document the damage before or shortly after you file with insurance, since that gives you accurate information going into the claim. There is no rule that says you must call insurance first, and many homeowners find it easier when they already know what a roofer found. Either way, your policy and carrier ultimately decide what is covered.

Why the order matters

Filing a claim starts a clock and a process with your insurance company, so it helps to know what you are dealing with before that starts. A roofer's inspection gives you clear photos, an honest assessment of what is damaged, and a sense of scope, which makes the conversation with your carrier more straightforward.

What a roofer can and cannot do

We can inspect your roof, document the damage thoroughly, and be present when the adjuster visits to point out what we found. We cannot approve a claim, tell you what your deductible is, or promise a specific payout. That decision sits with your insurance company based on your policy and their adjuster's assessment.

When to call insurance right away

If there is active, significant water intrusion or a safety hazard, call your carrier promptly to get the claim process started, and get emergency tarping done in parallel. Most policies want to see that reasonable steps were taken to prevent further damage, so do not wait around if the situation is urgent.

A practical order that works well

1. Get a roof inspection and full photo documentation
2. Handle any emergency tarping needed
3. File your claim with the documentation in hand
4. Have your roofer meet the adjuster on site if possible
5. Review the adjuster's findings against your policy with your carrier