05/17/2025
STORM SEASON PRO TIP: How to Protect Yourself and Keep It Compliant!
Storm season brings fast decisions—and costly mistakes. This is a public service announcement to help both homeowners and contractors navigate storm restoration projects the right way.
As an expert who has supported nearly 20,000 insurance related exterior projects nationwide, I’m sharing this to help protect everyone involved—homeowners, contractors, and insurance professionals alike.
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✅ For Homeowners: Smart Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor
• Are you advising me to file a claim or telling me what’s covered under my policy?
(Only licensed professionals should discuss policy terms. Contractors should focus on assessing and documenting damage.)
• For hail claims:
• Do you perform a proper “test square” inspection and provide photo documentation?
• For wind claims:
• Can you show clear photo evidence of missing, creased, or displaced shingles?
• Do you discuss potential out-of-pocket costs beyond my deductible?
(Like code-required upgrades or sheathing replacement.)
• Do you offer roofing system upgrades with extended warranties for long-term value?
• Do you have a professional process for properly documenting all incurred costs?
• If damage is found, are you willing and able to perform the necessary repairs?
(If not, that’s a red flag.)
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⚠️ Important Reminders for Homeowners:
• Retail vs Insurance:
You have the choice to pay out-of-pocket or file a claim. Even if no claim is filed, getting an inspection creates a good faith record of protecting your property.
• Don’t Shop for the Lowest Bidder:
Your goal should be proper restoration, not pocketing money. Cheap work leads to future problems.
• If You Finance Your Repairs (Retail Route):
Make sure the contractor is still willing to provide their itemized estimate to your insurance company for review.
If they refuse or leave you to handle all the paperwork, that’s a red flag. You shouldn’t be left to do all the work yourself.
• Do Claims Affect Insurance Rates?
Rate changes are typically driven by large-scale events and regulated at the state level—not solely by individual claims. (Confirm with your state’s guidelines.)
• Don’t File a Claim and Skip Repairs:
If a claim is approved but work isn’t completed, it can be deemed neglect and may cost you thousands down the road.
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📈 For Contractors: Are You Protecting Your Clients and Your Business?
• Are your teams trained to stay compliant with UPPA and state-specific laws?
• Are you maintaining professionalism by focusing on damage documentation—avoiding policy discussions?
• Do you have internal systems to accurately document incurred costs?
• Are you helping homeowners explore upgrade options and long-term warranties?
If you’re unsure, my team and I can help improve your processes and protect your business.
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This isn’t a sales pitch—it’s a reminder that protecting everyone involved starts with clear processes, compliance, and professionalism.
Questions? Drop them below or DM me. Happy to help.
Anthony Hynes
Licensed Public Adjuster | Industry Expert
✉️ [email protected]
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Disclaimer:
This message is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal, financial, or insurance advice. Homeowners should consult directly with their insurance providers or qualified professionals for policy-specific guidance.
While I am a licensed public adjuster, this is a public service announcement to promote responsible industry practices. No public adjusting services are being offered through this message.
Contractors are encouraged to consult with appropriate legal and compliance professionals to ensure their business practices meet all applicable laws and regulations.
