Filing a storm damage claim can feel overwhelming — especially when you've never done it before.
We'll help you understand the process, document the damage thoroughly, and make sure you're in the best position to work with your insurance company confidently. We're not a public adjuster and we don't manage your claim. What we do is make sure you have the documentation, information, and support you need to navigate it on your own terms.
How Honest Exteriors Supports You Through the Process
Free Inspection & Photo Documentation
We perform a thorough inspection of your roof and all exterior surfaces, documenting every finding with detailed photos. You'll receive a complete report — the same kind of evidence your insurance company needs to evaluate your claim accurately.
Help Understanding Your Scope of Loss
Insurance estimates can be difficult to read and easy to misunderstand. We help you make sense of your scope of loss — what's included, what might be missing, and what questions to ask your insurance provider before you sign anything.
On-Site During Your Adjuster Visit
If you'd like us there when your adjuster comes out, we'll be there. Having a licensed contractor present means damage can be pointed out in real time and nothing gets overlooked. You stay in control of the conversation — we're just there to support.
Walk You Through Repair & Replacement Options
Once your claim is approved, we'll walk you through your repair or full replacement options — materials, timelines, and what the process looks like — with no pressure and full transparency on cost.
Start With a Free Inspection
Before you call your insurance company, get a professional inspection. You'll know exactly what you're dealing with — and you'll have the documentation to back it up.
- Full roof and exterior assessment at no cost
- Detailed photo report you can share with your insurer
- We'll walk you through every finding — no jargon
- Zero obligation — you decide what to do next
- Same or next-day response available after storm events
Request Your Free Inspection
Takes 60 seconds. No obligation, ever.
Documentation You Can Actually Use
When we inspect your property, we document everything — surface by surface, photo by photo — so you have a clear, factual record to reference throughout the claims process.
Full roof and exterior assessment — every surface, every angle
Detailed close-up photos of every impact and damage point
A complete photo report you can share directly with your insurer
How the Insurance Claim Process Works in Minnesota
Most homeowners have never filed a roof damage claim before. Here's the typical sequence from storm to completed repair — so you know what to expect at every stage.
Get a Free Inspection First
Before calling your insurer, get a professional inspection. You'll know whether you have claim-worthy damage — and you'll have documentation to support it.
File Your Claim
Contact your insurance company to report the damage. Have the storm date, your inspection report, and photos ready. They'll assign a claims adjuster.
Adjuster Visits Your Home
The adjuster evaluates the damage and prepares a scope of loss. You can have your contractor present — we recommend it so nothing gets missed.
Review Your Scope of Loss
You'll receive an estimate from your insurer. Review it carefully — we can help you understand what's included and whether it reflects the full damage.
Repair & Final Payment
Once approved, work begins. After completion you submit the final invoice to collect any remaining depreciation payout if you have an RCV policy.
Key Terms Minnesota Homeowners Should Understand
Every policy is different. These are common terms and concepts you may encounter — always refer to your own policy documents and speak with your insurance provider for guidance specific to your situation.
ACV vs. RCV
Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies pay out depreciated value. Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies cover full replacement cost after the work is complete, typically in two payments. Check your declarations page to confirm which type you have.
Your Deductible
You pay your deductible out of pocket before coverage applies. Deductibles can be flat amounts or percentage-based. Know yours before you file — and be cautious of any contractor who offers to "cover" it. That practice is often illegal in Minnesota.
Ordinance or Law Coverage
Minnesota building code may require a full tear-off if a significant portion of your roof needs replacement. If your policy includes Ordinance or Law coverage, required code upgrades may be covered. Not all policies include this — check yours.
What to have ready when you call your insurer:
- The date of the storm event
- Your policy number and declarations page
- Photos and inspection report documenting the damage
- Local storm data — NOAA Storm Events or NWS Minneapolis records can confirm storm date, hail size, and wind speed for your zip code
- A list of all affected areas — roof, siding, gutters, windows
- Notes on any interior water damage or leaks that appeared after the storm
What to Watch Out For After a Storm
After a major storm, out-of-state contractors flood affected neighborhoods. Here's what to watch for when choosing who to work with.
Deductible Waiver Offers
Any contractor who offers to waive, cover, or absorb your deductible is asking you to participate in insurance fraud. It's illegal in Minnesota and can result in your claim being denied entirely. A reputable contractor will never offer this.
Unlicensed Storm Chasers
Out-of-state contractors often appear after major storms and disappear just as fast. In Minnesota, roofing contractors must be licensed through the Department of Labor & Industry. Always verify a license at doli.state.mn.us before signing anything.
Signing Before Approval
Never sign a contract with a contractor before your insurance claim is approved and you've reviewed the full scope of loss. Reputable contractors will wait. Anyone pressuring you to sign before approval is a red flag.
Insurance Claims FAQ
Answers to the questions we hear most from Minnesota homeowners going through the claims process.
Start With a Free Inspection — Before You Call Your Insurer
We'll document your damage thoroughly, walk you through what we find, and make sure you're fully informed and prepared to work with your insurance company.
