If you’ve ever had a storm roll through Quincy, Scituate, or Falmouth and wondered whether your homeowners insurance will cover the roof damage, you’re not alone. Roofing insurance claims can feel like a game where the rules are written in tiny print but with the right approach, you can navigate it confidently and get the coverage you’re entitled to.
Below, we’ll break down how the process really works in Massachusetts, what’s covered, what’s not, and the insider tips roofers wish every homeowner knew before they called their insurer.
1. What Insurance Usually Covers (and What It Doesn’t)
Covered:
Sudden, accidental damage from storms, like wind ripping off shingles in Hull or Cohasset.
Fallen trees or limbs damaging the roof during a nor’easter.
Hail impacts, which sometimes happen in inland towns like Hanover or Norwell.
Not covered: Gradual wear and tear — those shingles curling after 20 years in Plymouth aren’t a claim.
Neglect clogged gutters in Sandwich that cause an ice dam aren’t on the insurer. Faulty installation — that’s between you and the contractor. Think of insurance as emergency help, not a maintenance plan.
2. First Steps After Storm Damage
Safety first — Stay off the roof. Use binoculars or a phone camera zoom for a first look.
Document everything — Take wide shots of your property, then close-ups of visible damage.
Call your roofer before your insurer — A trusted local pro in Duxbury or Barnstable can confirm the damage type and whether it’s likely covered.
Mitigate further damage — Tarping holes or securing loose flashing can prevent claim denial for “failure to protect property.”
3. The Role of the Insurance Adjuster
When you file a claim, your insurance company sends an adjuster to inspect. This is where having your roofer present matters.
Why? Your roofer knows local building codes, wind-zone requirements, and current shingle availability — things an out-of-town adjuster might overlook.
Example: In Marshfield, building codes require ice and water shield at least 3 feet past the heated wall line. If an adjuster omits that from the repair scope, your roofer can point it out immediately.
4. Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Starting repairs before inspection — Unless it’s emergency tarping, wait for adjuster approval or risk coverage disputes.
Not reading the policy — Some Cape Cod homeowners don’t realize they have a higher windstorm deductible.
Hiring storm chasers — Out-of-state crews may vanish before warranty issues surface. Stick to South Shore and Cape-based companies with a track record.
5. Understanding “Actual Cash Value” vs. “Replacement Cost”
Your payout depends on your policy type:
Actual Cash Value (ACV) — You get the roof’s depreciated value. A 15-year-old roof in Yarmouth may net you far less than replacement cost.
Replacement Cost Value (RCV) — You’re covered for the cost to replace with similar materials, minus your deductible. Often requires you to complete the work and submit proof before getting the full payout.
6. Town-Specific Claim Scenarios
Scituate & Hull: High winds off the ocean rip ridge caps and starter shingles — adjusters should check entire windward slopes, not just visible gaps.
Plymouth & Bourne: Mixed inland/coastal exposure means both wind and tree damage claims are common.
Orleans & Chatham: Salt corrosion can weaken flashing; storm damage claims may also involve replacing corroded components.
7. The Supplemental Claim (Hidden Damage)
Sometimes, hidden issues show up after tear-off — rotted decking, hidden flashing damage, or more extensive ice shield requirements.
Your roofer can file a supplemental claim to add these costs. Keep communication open and provide photo evidence promptly.
8. Tips to Make the Process Smoother
Keep a “roof file” — store photos, invoices, warranty registrations, and prior inspection reports.
After a big storm in Quincy or Hingham, do a quick yard walk for shingles, flashing, or granules.
Know your deductible — some Cape towns have separate hurricane deductibles.
Work with a roofer who knows insurance paperwork — they’ll help align your claim with code requirements.
9. When to Skip the Claim
For minor repairs costing less than or slightly above your deductible, paying out of pocket avoids potential premium hikes. Example: replacing a few shingles after a mild storm in Hanover might cost $300–$500 — less than many deductibles.
10. Final Word
Roof insurance claims in Massachusetts aren’t as mysterious as they seem once you understand the playbook. Document, involve a local roofer early, and know your policy’s language. With those steps, whether you’re in Weymouth, Barnstable, or Wellfleet, you’ll be in the best position to get a fair settlement and restore your roof to full strength.