Storm Damage in Wisconsin: A Homeowner's Guide to Filing an Insurance Claim

Wisconsin storms don't mess around — wind events, hail, heavy rain, and ice dams all do real damage. If you suspect your roof or siding took a hit, here's the playbook.

1. Document first, call second

Before you call anyone, walk the property and take photos:

• Ground-level shots of all four sides of the house
• Close-ups of any obvious damage (dented gutters, torn screens, cracked siding, granules in downspouts)
• The date and time on each photo (most phones embed this automatically)

Don't climb the roof yourself.

2. Get a professional inspection — free

A reputable local contractor will inspect for free and tell you honestly whether you have a claim. Hail and wind damage is often invisible from the ground. We document everything with photos and a written report you can hand to your adjuster.

3. File your claim with documentation in hand

When you call your insurance company, you want to lead with facts: date of the storm, type of damage, photo documentation, and a contractor's inspection report. Vague claims get denied or under-paid.

4. Be present for the adjuster meeting

Ask your contractor to be on site when the adjuster inspects. Two trained eyes catch more, and the contractor can speak to code requirements (ventilation, ice & water shield, flashing) that the adjuster needs to include in the scope.

5. Understand ACV vs. RCV

Most policies are Replacement Cost Value (RCV) — they pay depreciation back once the work is completed. Some are Actual Cash Value (ACV) only. Read your declarations page or ask your agent.

6. Watch for these claim mistakes

• Signing a contract with a "storm chaser" before the claim is approved
• Accepting the first ACV check and walking away (you leave the depreciation on the table)
• Letting a contractor negotiate with your insurance on your behalf without your involvement — that's illegal in some states and a red flag everywhere

If a storm just rolled through, give us a call for a free, no-pressure inspection. Owner on site, every time.