Storm Damage and Insurance Claims in New York

Know what happened

The National Weather Service Binghamton office posts warnings and storm reports for Onondaga County (National Weather Service Binghamton (forecast office for Onondaga County)), and NOAA's Storm Prediction Center keeps records of severe weather reports nationwide (NOAA Storm Prediction Center). Noting the date and type of storm, such as a severe thunderstorm with hail or a high wind event, helps when you describe the damage later.

Document before anything changes

1. Take dated photos and video from the ground and from windows: the roof, gutters, downspouts, vents, skylights, fences and any debris in the yard.
2. Photograph inside: ceilings, walls, the attic, and any damaged belongings.
3. Write down what you saw and when, such as water dripping after the storm.
4. Stay off the roof.

Protect the house

Most policies expect a homeowner to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. That usually means a temporary cover over openings and moving belongings out of the way of leaks. Keep receipts for tarps, emergency work and any temporary housing.

Filing the claim

The NY Department of Financial Services regulates insurers in the state and publishes consumer guidance on homeowners claims, including what to expect and how to file a complaint if a claim is handled poorly (NY Department of Financial Services, consumer help). In general:

• Report the claim to the insurer without delay and get a claim number.
• Read the policy sections on wind, hail and water damage, and on deductibles.
• Be present for the adjuster's inspection if you can, and share your photos.
• Get a written estimate for repairs that describes the damage in detail.
• Ask questions in writing and keep copies of everything.

The insurer decides what is covered. A roofer can describe damage and the work needed, but no one outside the insurer can promise a claim result.

Storm chasers

After big storms, door-to-door roofing offers spike. The New York State Attorney General warns against high-pressure sales, large up-front payments and contracts signed on the spot, and explains homeowners' rights on home improvement contracts (New York State Attorney General). Be cautious of anyone who offers to waive a deductible or asks you to sign over insurance payments before any work is defined.

Next steps

With the house protected and the claim open, a written scope makes comparing options easier. See storm and hail damage and what shapes storm repair.

Related pages: storm, wind & hail damage, roof repair, roof inspections, and what shapes an estimate.

Sources: National Weather Service Binghamton (forecast office for Onondaga County); NOAA Storm Prediction Center; NY Department of Financial Services, consumer help; New York State Attorney General.