Insurance Claims for Any Property Damage (Water, Fire, Storm & More)

At Reformation General Contracting, we understand that dealing with property damage can be stressful. That's why we've simplified the insurance claims process to help you restore your home quickly and efficiently. Follow these steps to navigate the process with ease:

Step-by-Step Guide

  • If there’s active leaking or exposed structure, we’ll tarp/board-up right away to prevent further damage. These emergency measures are typically reimbursable by insurance. Keep receipts and take quick photos/video before and after any temporary protection.

  • Walk the property and capture clear photos/video of all affected areas—exterior and interior. Note dates, the storm event (wind/hail/heavy rain), and any new issues (water stains, granules in gutters, missing shingles, etc.). This record helps your claim and speeds approvals.

  • We’ll perform a comprehensive inspection (roof, siding, gutters, interior) and create a photo-rich report. If damage warrants a claim, we’ll outline the items carriers commonly miss (ice & water shield, starter, ridge/hip caps, step flashing, code items), so you’re prepared.

  • Share your adjuster’s appointment with us—we’ll meet them on-site. We walk the damage together, reference building code, and ensure the inspection covers all slopes and elevations. Our goal: a thorough scope the first time.

  • Your insurer will issue a scope of loss describing line items and pricing. We compare it to real-world needs (materials, labor, code compliance) and identify supplements—missing or under-scoped items insurers commonly add once documented.

  • Most policies pay in two parts:

    • ACV (Actual Cash Value): initial check minus depreciation and deductible.

    • RCV (Replacement Cost Value): the rest, released after work is completed and invoiced.
      Some depreciation is recoverable (you get it back); some may be non-recoverable (depends on policy). We’ll help you understand which applies.

  • Insurers pay to restore to pre-loss condition. Building code items (ice & water shield, ventilation, flashing) are typically covered if your policy includes Ordinance & Law/Code coverage. Upgrades you choose (e.g., premium shingles, designer vents) are your cost beyond the covered like-kind materials. We’ll price both paths clearly.

  • If you have a mortgage, claim checks may list your lender. We’ll provide you a simple checklist and lender packet (claim, estimate, our W-9, contract, photos) to get the check endorsed quickly. We can coordinate directly if you’d like.

  • Once the scope is aligned, we finalize your contract, confirm product selections (shingle style/color, accessories), and lock a production window. We’ll also handle permits and HOA approvals where needed.

  • If the carrier missed legitimate line items or quantities, we submit a supplement with documentation. When appropriate, we request a re-inspection or supervisor review. This is normal and often resolves gaps without friction.

  • We pull permits where required, follow HOA rules, and stage materials. You’ll get a brief “what to expect” note covering parking, pets, landscaping protection, and daily start/finish times so there are no surprises.

  • Typical flow:

    1. Initial homeowner payment: your ACV check (and deductible) to start.

    2. Progress payment(s): if applicable on multi-trade projects.

    3. Final payment: due at substantial completion and your walkthrough sign-off.
      We then invoice the carrier for recoverable depreciation and any approved supplements.

  • We complete a quality walkthrough with you, address punch-list items, and provide warranty details. For roofing, we offer post-install checks—especially helpful if you plan solar—to ensure penetrations are done right.

  • After completion, we submit final invoices and photos to your insurer. They release the recoverable depreciation to you; you forward it to us to close out the file. We’ll help you track this so nothing lingers.

  • If the loss forces you out (major water, fire, etc.), your policy may include ALE/LOU (hotel, meals, laundry). Keep receipts and ask your adjuster what’s included and for how long. We’ll document timelines to support your claim.

  • If there’s a genuine disagreement on scope or price after supplements and re-inspection, policies may offer an Appraisal process (each side hires an appraiser; an umpire breaks ties). We can explain the logistics so you can decide confidently. (We’re not your legal advisor; for policy interpretation, consult your carrier or an attorney.)

    • Take photos/video and note the date of loss

    • Call in the claim; save claim number & adjuster info

    • Share adjuster appointment with Reformation GC

    • Send us the carrier estimate and any mortgage instructions

    • Make selections (colors/styles) promptly

    • Keep all invoices/receipts (emergency mitigation, ALE)

    • Endorse and forward mortgage checks quickly

  • We speak “insurance,” we build to code, and we handle the details—so you don’t have to. Our goal is a smooth process, a fair scope, and a finished result you’re proud of.

Damage at home? Let’s get your claim moving.

We handle inspections, scope review, supplements, and lender endorsements—start to finish.