After a severe storm tears through Lincoln, discovering roof damage is stressful enough. Filing an insurance claim shouldn't add to your frustration. This guide walks you through every step of the roof insurance claims process, helping Lincoln homeowners get fair compensation and quality repairs.
Understanding Your Nebraska Homeowners Insurance Coverage
Before filing a claim, understand what your policy covers:
Typical Coverage for Roof Damage
- Wind and hail damage: Usually covered as "named perils"
- Fallen trees/debris: Covered if due to weather events
- Interior water damage: Covered if caused by covered roof damage
What's NOT Typically Covered
- Wear and tear: Age-related deterioration
- Lack of maintenance: Preventable damage from neglect
- Cosmetic damage: Issues that don't affect function
- Existing damage: Pre-existing issues before policy started
đź’ˇ Know Your Policy Type: Replacement Cost Value (RCV) pays for new materials at today's prices. Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays depreciated value. Most Lincoln policies are RCV for roofs less than 15 years old.
Step-by-Step: Filing Your Roof Insurance Claim
Document the Damage IMMEDIATELY
Time is critical. Document everything within 24-48 hours of the storm:
- • Take photos/videos of ALL visible damage from multiple angles
- • Photograph hailstones next to a ruler or quarter for size reference
- • Document damage to gutters, siding, windows, AC units
- • Take interior photos of any water stains or leaks
- • Get photos BEFORE any emergency repairs (except to prevent further damage)
Review Your Insurance Policy
Before calling your agent, understand:
- • Your deductible amount (typically $500-$2,500 in Lincoln)
- • Coverage limits and exclusions
- • Time frame for filing claims (usually 1-2 years in Nebraska)
- • Whether you have RCV or ACV coverage
Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company or agent to file a claim. Provide:
- • Policy number and contact information
- • Date and time of the storm
- • Description of damage observed
- • Estimated damage extent (if known)
The insurer will assign a claim number and schedule an adjuster inspection (typically within 3-7 days in Lincoln).
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
CRITICAL STEP: Before the adjuster arrives, hire a reputable Lincoln roofing contractor for an independent inspection. They can:
- • Identify damage adjusters might miss
- • Document hidden damage (underlayment, decking)
- • Provide a detailed scope of work and estimate
- • Be present during the adjuster's inspection to advocate for you
Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
The adjuster will inspect your roof to assess damage. Best practices:
- • Have your roofing contractor present if possible
- • Point out ALL damage you've documented
- • Ask questions about their findings and methodology
- • Request a copy of their inspection report
- • Don't sign anything you don't fully understand
Review the Initial Settlement Offer
The insurance company will send a settlement letter detailing:
- • Approved damage (what they'll cover)
- • Replacement Cost Value (total approved amount)
- • Actual Cash Value (initial payment minus depreciation)
- • Your deductible (subtracted from initial payment)
Common Issue: Initial estimates are often lower than actual repair costs. Compare the adjuster's estimate with your contractor's quote.
File a Supplement if Necessary
If additional damage is discovered during tear-off (rotten decking, damaged underlayment), your contractor can file a "supplement" to the original claim. This is standard practice—don't panic.
Complete the Repairs & Collect Depreciation
Once repairs are completed:
- • Submit final invoices and completion certificates to your insurer
- • Request payment of the "recoverable depreciation" withheld from initial check
- • Ensure all work is documented with photos and warranty paperwork
Common Insurance Claim Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mistakes That Can Derail Your Claim:
- 1. Delaying the claim: File within days of the storm, not months later when evidence is gone
- 2. Not documenting damage: "He said, she said" doesn't work—you need photographic evidence
- 3. Meeting the adjuster alone: Adjusters work for the insurance company, not you. Have expert representation
- 4. Accepting the first offer without review: Initial estimates often lowball. Compare with contractor quotes
- 5. Not reading the fine print: Understand what's covered, what's excluded, and payment terms
- 6. Hiring storm chasers: Out-of-state contractors disappear after payment. Choose local, established companies
How Bob's Roofing Helps with Insurance Claims
We've helped hundreds of Lincoln homeowners navigate the insurance claims process. Our services include:
Free Damage Inspection
Thorough roof inspection with detailed photo documentation and damage report
Adjuster Meeting Attendance
We meet with your adjuster to ensure all damage is properly documented and compensated
Detailed Estimates
Professional scope of work matching insurance industry standards
Supplement Filing
We handle additional claims for hidden damage discovered during tear-off
Understanding Deductibles & Payment Structure
How Insurance Payments Work
Example: Typical Lincoln Claim
- âś“ Total approved claim: $12,000
- âś“ Your deductible: -$1,500
- âś“ Depreciation withheld: -$3,000
- âś“ Initial check: $7,500
- âś“ After completion: +$3,000 (depreciation returned)
- âś“ Your out-of-pocket: $1,500 (deductible only)
Red Flags: Contractor Scams After Storms
After major Lincoln storms, beware of:
- Door-to-door solicitors: Reputable contractors don't need to canvass neighborhoods
- "We'll waive your deductible": This is insurance fraud and illegal in Nebraska
- Upfront payment demands: Legitimate contractors bill after work or require small deposits only
- Out-of-state companies: They disappear when problems arise—choose local contractors
Need Help with Your Lincoln Roof Insurance Claim?
Bob's Roofing has worked with every major insurance company serving Lincoln. We'll help you navigate the claims process, ensure fair compensation, and restore your roof to perfect condition.
Conclusion
Navigating roof insurance claims doesn't have to be overwhelming. With proper documentation, understanding of your policy, and support from an experienced local contractor, you can ensure fair compensation and quality repairs.
Remember: insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts—not through dishonesty, but through focusing only on obvious damage. Having a professional roofing contractor advocate for you levels the playing field and ensures nothing is overlooked.
Storm damage your Lincoln roof? Contact Bob's Roofing for a free inspection and expert guidance through the insurance claims process. We're your local advocates, committed to getting you the coverage you deserve.
Bob's Roofing Team
Published October 28, 2025 • Lincoln, NE