Top 5 Roofing Insurance Claim Mistakes Missouri Homeowners Make

How to Protect Your Roof, Your Claim, and Your Peace of Mind After a Storm

In Missouri, it often begins with a sudden storm—hail pounding against the roof, wind peeling shingles, and debris scattering across the yard. The next morning, you step outside and spot damage: a lifted ridge cap, missing shingles, or a few pieces of metal flashing bent out of place. It might not seem like an emergency—but if you’re like most homeowners, your next step will involve an insurance claim for roof repairs.

And this is where things can go sideways. Not because people are careless—but because the claim process is unfamiliar, and storm damage decisions come with deadlines, fine print, and pressure. At Freedom Restoration and Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how common mistakes—often made in the first few days—can mean the difference between full coverage and thousands in out-of-pocket costs.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• The 5 most common roofing claim mistakes in Missouri
• How to protect your roof and your insurance claim
• What to do before and after you file
• How Freedom Roofing helps make the process easier

Storm damage? Questions about insurance? Freedom Roofing can help.

Why Roof Insurance Claims Are So Complex in Missouri

The Storms Are Tough—But the Claims Process Shouldn’t Be

Missouri weather is notoriously unpredictable. One day it’s calm and sunny; the next, hail pounds your roof and high winds rip shingles from the ridge. These events are covered under most homeowners insurance policies—but filing a claim is rarely simple.

The complexity comes from:

• Strict policy deadlines (usually 12 months, sometimes less)
• Inspections that don’t always catch all the damage
• Technical roofing components like decking and flashing
• Insurance terms like “ACV,” “depreciation,” and “code upgrades” that confuse even savvy homeowners

When you’re dealing with that on top of roof damage, it’s easy to misstep. That’s why the next section matters.

Before You File: What Every Missouri Homeowner Should Know

Start Here to Give Your Roofing Insurance Claim the Best Chance of Success

Before you reach out to your insurance company, take a few proactive steps to make sure your claim—and your roof—are protected:

• Know your deductible: This is what you’ll owe out of pocket. It helps guide your decision on whether to file.
• Schedule an inspection: A qualified roofer can assess damage you may not see and document it professionally (Freedom Roofing offers this at no charge).
• Take your own photos: Snap pictures from the ground, inside the attic, and around the property.
• Find a contractor—not a salesperson: You need someone who will walk your roof, explain your options, and support your claim—not just sell a job.
• Read your policy—or ask for help: Understanding terms like “actual cash value” or “replacement cost” can save you from surprise bills later.

5 Roofing Claim Mistakes Missouri Homeowners Should Avoid

Steer Clear of These Common Errors That Can Delay or Deny Your Claim

Here’s what we see go wrong most often—and what you can do instead.

1. Waiting Too Long After the Storm

Roof damage doesn’t always look serious at first glance. But minor issues—like lifted shingles or cracked flashing—can lead to leaks fast. Waiting also risks missing the claim deadline, which is typically 12 months in Missouri.

Tip: Schedule a roof inspection within a few days of a major storm. It gives you time to file and supports your claim with accurate documentation.

2. Not Taking Enough (or the Right) Photos

Your insurance adjuster needs evidence, and your photos help tell the story. Missing, blurry, or incomplete photos can slow down or even limit your claim payout.

At Freedom Roofing, we create a full photo report showing all damage from multiple angles—ideal for insurance submission.

3. Letting the Insurance Adjuster Inspect Alone

Adjusters are trained, but they aren’t roofing specialists. They may overlook hidden damage that impacts your roof’s integrity. Without a contractor present, you may miss out on repairs your roof truly needs.

We accompany the adjuster to ensure nothing is missed—and you get credit for all covered damage.

4. Hiring an Out-of-Town “Storm Chaser”

After big storms, you’ll see unfamiliar roofing trucks everywhere. These companies often aren’t licensed in Missouri, and they may leave town before follow-ups or warranty issues arise.

Freedom Roofing is local, licensed, and veteran-owned—serving Missouri homeowners for over a decade.

5. Assuming Everything Will Be Covered

Even a strong insurance policy may not cover code-required upgrades, luxury shingles, or full replacement if your roof is partially damaged. Understanding your policy matters.

We review your policy with you and help bridge any coverage gaps with financing options, upgrade guidance, and supplemental claim support.

What Insurance and Warranties Don’t Always Cover

A Deeper Look at Roof Coverage Gaps—and How to Protect Against Them

It’s a common misconception: “Insurance or the warranty will cover it.” Unfortunately, there are important gaps in both.

That’s why Freedom Roofing provides both: manufacturer coverage through our Owens Corning Platinum Contractor status, and a 5-year workmanship warranty on full roof installs.

Bottom line: We make sure you’re protected—even beyond what your policy covers.

Common Roofing Insurance Claim Questions from Troy Homeowners

If you’ve recently experienced storm damage or are unsure how your policy applies to roofing, you’re not alone. At Freedom Restoration and Roofing, we regularly hear from homeowners in Troy and nearby communities who have questions about coverage, inspections, and what to expect. Below are answers to the most common concerns—answered in plain English and tied directly to the issues raised in this blog.