By Shurden’s Roofing
Keep the roof assessment and coverage decision separate
After suspected hail or wind damage, you have two related conversations: a contractor evaluates the roof and proposes work, while your insurer determines what the policy covers. A roof inspection cannot guarantee claim approval, full replacement or a particular payment.
Contact your insurer promptly about its reporting process and any time limits. Do not wait for a roofer to decide whether notification is necessary. You can arrange an assessment while gathering the documentation your insurer requests.
Safety and documentation come first
Continue following weather alerts and avoid damaged structures, downed lines and unsafe access. Do not climb onto the roof to look for hail marks. From a safe location, record what you can observe and when you noticed it. Use the separate storm photo checklist below to organize original photos and notes.
A dented gutter or debris in the yard does not establish the extent of roof damage. Ask the inspector to distinguish visible observations from conclusions about cause, and to identify any areas that could not be evaluated. Keep temporary-work invoices and written findings together.
Questions for your insurer
Ask what documents are needed, how inspection appointments work, whether temporary work requires particular records and how to meet the policy’s obligations. Discuss the deductible, exclusions, settlement basis and any conditions attached to additional payments with the insurer.
Actual cash value and replacement cost provisions can affect settlement differently. Do not assume every policy pays in two checks or includes recoverable depreciation. The applicable terms and claim decision need to come from your insurer. Ask for a written explanation when a decision is unclear.
Compare the proposed repair scope
Ask the roofing contractor to identify the roof sections and work included, the materials proposed and any unknown conditions. If the insurer’s scope differs, identify the specific items and ask each party to explain its assessment. Additional documentation may be relevant, but it does not guarantee a revised decision.
Keep estimates, approvals and changes in writing. Before authorizing work, understand the contract, your payment responsibilities and the process for changes. Avoid relying on a verbal promise that insurance will pay for everything.
If you disagree with a claim decision
Request the reason for the decision and the insurer’s process for asking questions or providing further information. Preserve correspondence and photographs. The Mississippi Insurance Department provides consumer assistance resources; contact it about insurance concerns rather than treating a contractor’s opinion as policy advice.
A qualified roof assessment can explain observed conditions. Legal interpretations, coverage guarantees and predictions about future premiums are outside this guide. Ask the relevant insurer or licensed professional about your circumstances.
Arrange the next step
Shurden’s Roofing lists storm-damage assessment and roof repair services throughout North Mississippi. Share your city, immediate concerns and access restrictions when contacting the team. Confirm availability directly, particularly after a widespread storm.
Use the photo checklist for documentation and the repair-versus-replacement guide to prepare questions about the roofing recommendation. The goal is to understand the condition, the proposed work and the separate policy decision before committing to a project.
Source: Mississippi Insurance Department consumer resources.
Request an inspection or call 662-498-6629 to discuss the property and scheduling.