After The Storm: Our roofing claims specialist answers homeowners' most common questions

From Saturday, January 24th through Sunday January 25th, 2026, the US experienced a major snow and ice storm that spanned across 35 states. This storm caused many distruptions via power outages, school and business closures and damage to residential homes and commercial buildings . Our tri-state area, from Delaware County PA, Camden County NJ and New Castle County DE, was hit hard. We saw an average of 10 inches of snow that was topped with a layer of ice- the most intense storm that we have seen in recent years.

The combination of snow and ice placed a significant weight on roofs, power lines and tree branches. As tree branches were weighed down, they snapped and fell, and we received many calls of homeowners experiencing damage to their roof, siding and gutters. Even without visible leaks, the weight of the snow and ice can create hazards and damage not visible to homeowners right away. Many of our customers have inquired and consulted with Bonner Master Roofing about submitting claims to their insurance company and how the process works.

We sat down with our claims specialist, Ryan Cannon, to ask the most frequent questions we have been getting from homeowners since the storm. Here is what Ryan had to say about homeowners working with insurance claims specialists and explaining the insurance claims process.

Ryan Cannon, Insurance Claims Specialist

• Haag Certified

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Q: You inspect roofs every day and see an influx after storms. What’s the most common damage homeowners don’t realize they have?

A: Most homeowners don’t realize that insurance typically covers damage caused by wind, hail, and other acts of nature—and that much of this damage can’t be seen from the ground. Wind can lift shingles and create creases that weaken them over time. Hail impacts can knock granules off shingles, which shortens their lifespan. Even fallen tree branches can scrape granules away without homeowners realizing the damage has occurred.

Q: After a storm, how soon should a homeowner have their roof checked?

A: The sooner, the better. Most insurance companies give homeowners one year from the date of the storm to file a claim, however, waiting too long can limit options or even result in denied coverage. I never recommend waiting to have your roof inspected after a storm if you are concerned about potential damage.

Q: What types of storm damage are often hidden but serious?

A: Wind-damaged shingles can be missing or loosened, which may eventually lead to leaks. Leaks can lead to mold, often times missed in crawl spaces and attics. Tree damage can sometimes penetrate through the plywood decking, even if it doesn’t look severe from the outside. Hail damage is another big one as it may not cause immediate leaks, but it can significantly shorten the life of a roof.

Q: What is the biggest misconception homeowners have about roof damage and insurance claims?

A: Many homeowners worry their insurance rates will go up if they file a claim. In reality, rates often increase regardless. Another misconception is thinking loyalty matters, that being with the same insurance company for 30 years will affect the claim decision. Claims are based on damage, not tenure, so there should be no concerns filing a necessary claim. A single claim often does not mean a rate change.

Q: What can happen if a homeowner waits too long to act on storm damage?

A: Most policies allow one year to file a claim, but waiting can be risky. In some cases, insurance companies send letters stating that if an older roof isn’t replaced, coverage could be dropped altogether. Since roof leaks can damage other areas of the house, its imperative to act right away and avoid a larger situation from occurring. That's why it's important to keep up with your roof like you do your vehicle; be sure you know the year it was installed and check its integrity regularly.

Q: Are there any signs homeowners can safely look for themselves after a storm?

A: Homeowners can walk around their property and look for visible damage they can see from the ground—missing shingles, debris, or fallen branches. That said, it’s always best to have a professional roof inspection to catch damage you can’t see.

Q: Can you walk us through the roof insurance claim process?

A: It starts with the homeowner filing a claim. Then there’s a meeting with the insurance adjuster—I attend that meeting as well. Afterward, the insurance company sends an estimate. I review it carefully, and if anything is missing, I contact the insurance company to have it added. Once the insurance company approves the work, we move forward with scheduling.

Most insurance companies pay in two parts: ACV (Actual Cash Value) is paid first, and RCV (Replacement Cost Value) is paid after the work is completed and photos and invoices are submitted. I am there every step of the way to ensure all required documents are submitted in a timely manner and that the customer feels prioritized in what can be a stressful situation.

Q: What’s the difference between an insurance adjuster’s estimate and a contractor’s estimate?

A: Adjusters do their best to estimate damage, but contractors know exactly what materials and labor are needed to complete the job properly. Many times, adjuster estimates are missing necessary items that contractors catch. This is where I play a big role to ensure that nothing is missing from a homeworners project.

Q: How important is documentation during a claim?

A: Documentation and photos are extremely important—it can truly make or break a claim. Often, you must prove certain damages exist in order to get them approved by the insurance company.

Q: How do you determine whether a roof needs repairs or a full replacement?

A: It depends entirely on the extent of the damage. Some situations allow for partial repairs, while others require a full replacement to properly protect the home. I look at damages to the interior of the home, as well, not just the roof. This will tell a lot about what is acutally happening and the scope of work that needs to be done.

Q: How do you advocate for homeowners during the claims process?

A: Once the claim is filed, it’s best to let the specialist advocate for the remainder of the process. Insurance claim specialists, such as myself, are professionals and understand how to communicate with insurance companies. I make sure that every customer is treated fairly and justly by the insurance company. From start to finish, I will do whatever I can to make sure the customer has everything they need to feel they have the best roofing system and are protection over their head.

Q: What is the biggest mistake homeowners make during a storm damage claim?

A: The biggest mistake is filing a claim first and calling a contractor afterward. It’s always better to contact a contractor before filing the claim so the process is handled correctly from the start. As a professional, I know exactly what insurance companies are looking for and how the process works.

Q: What should homeowners know about storm chasers?

A: Many, many storm chasers are usually not Haag certified. If a roof is approved, storm chasers often use local subcontractors they don’t know and then leave town. Down the road, if a leak appears, the homeowner has nowhere to turn. Often times, there is no warranty on the job, resulting in loss of funds and a potentially failed roof. Choosing a local company is always the safer option.

Q: What costs should homeowners expect with an insurance-covered roof replacement?

A: In most cases, homeowners only pay their deductible unless they choose upgrades or changes beyond what insurance covers. Its a pretty standard system so you know what you are paying out of pocket.

Q: What’s your final advice for homeowners after a storm?

A: No matter what, have your roof checked by a Haag-certified storm specialist and always work with a local company you can trust. At Bonner Master Roofing we like to call ourselves "Your local trusted roofer" becuase we get the job done from start to finish with a professional claims specialist and a roof that has a certificate of warranty. We care to make our community our priority.

Q: If homeowners aren’t sure where to start, what should they do first?

A: Call Bonner Master Roofing, or a local roofing company if they are out of our service area. Be sure to ask if they have a Haag-certified inspector. That’s the best first step.

Final Thoughts

Storm damage isn’t always obvious, but ignoring the potential can lead to costly problems later. If your home has experienced wind, hail, or storm activity, having a professional inspection can help protect your roof, your investment, and your peace of mind.

To schedule with our insurance specialist, contact us at 610-876-8800 or email us at info@bonnerroof.com