How to File a Storm Damage Roof Insurance Claim in Tennessee

You Have More Rights Than You Think

Middle Tennessee averages 55 severe weather events per year. After a hailstorm or high-wind event, thousands of homeowners across Davidson, Williamson, and Rutherford counties find themselves navigating the insurance claims process — often for the first time.

I spent 11 years on the insurance company side before joining Summit Shield. I know exactly how these claims work, what adjusters look for, and what homeowners miss that costs them thousands. Here's what you need to know.

Step 1: Don't Wait — Document Immediately

Most Tennessee homeowner policies have a "timely reporting" clause. Damage reported months after the storm can be denied as "pre-existing." As soon as it's safe to do so after a storm:

Step 2: Call Summit Shield Before You Call Your Insurer

This might seem counterintuitive, but there's a strategic reason. Having a certified HAAG inspector document your damage before the adjuster arrives gives you an independent assessment and forces the adjuster to address specific items. Without your own documentation, the adjuster's word is final.

Our storm assessment is always free, and we'll give you a complete written damage report within 24–48 hours.

Step 3: File Your Claim

Contact your insurance company or agent to file the claim. You'll receive a claim number and be assigned an adjuster. **Important:** You are not required to accept the adjuster's first estimate.

Step 4: The Adjuster Visit

Your adjuster's job is to verify the damage and estimate repair or replacement cost. Here's what most homeowners don't know:

Step 5: Review the Estimate Carefully

Most adjuster estimates have errors — items missed, wrong square footage, outdated pricing, or inadequate scope. We've supplemented over 70% of the initial estimates we've reviewed, recovering an average of 34% more for homeowners.

Items commonly missed by adjusters:

Step 6: Supplement If Necessary

If we identify items missing from the estimate, we prepare a formal supplement with Xactimate pricing (the industry-standard insurance estimating software) and submit it directly to your adjuster. This process takes 1–2 weeks and typically results in significantly more coverage.

You Never Pay More Than Your Deductible

Tennessee law prohibits contractors from waiving deductibles (TCA 56-7-120). But you should NEVER pay more than your deductible for a properly documented insurance claim. If a contractor is asking for money above your deductible for insurance-covered work, that's a red flag.

**Questions about your specific situation?** Call our claims specialist directly at **(615) 892-7663, ext. 2** or email sarah@summitshieldroofing.com.