Roofing · Updated 2026-04-25
Long Island storm-damage roof insurance claim checklist
Photograph damage from the ground first, file the claim with your carrier within 24–72 hours, get a Suffolk-licensed roofer's inspection in writing, and never sign an Assignment of Benefits to a storm chaser.
Long Island averages a damaging wind or coastal storm every 2–3 years. After the storm, the order of operations matters: safely document, mitigate further damage, file the carrier claim, and only then engage a contractor. The biggest financial mistake homeowners make is signing an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) on a clipboard at the curb — it transfers your claim rights to the storm chaser.
Step-by-step
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1
Stay safe and document from the ground
Do not climb on a damaged roof. Photograph and video every elevation from the yard, including downed limbs, missing shingles, and any debris. Date-stamp via your phone.
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2
Mitigate further damage (tarp / board-up)
Your policy requires you to prevent additional loss. Get a licensed roofer to tarp open areas. Save every receipt — emergency tarping is reimbursable under most NY HO-3 policies.
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3
File the claim with your carrier
Call within 24–72 hours. Get a claim number in writing. Note the adjuster's name, phone, and email — request a written estimate after their inspection.
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4
Engage a Suffolk-licensed roofer for a written assessment
Independent of the adjuster. The roofer's written, photo-backed scope is your leverage when the adjuster's number comes in low.
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5
Refuse Assignment of Benefits and door-knockers
Storm chasers from out of state will knock within 48 hours. Verify Suffolk HIC license before any conversation. Never sign anything labeled 'AOB' or 'Direction to Pay'.
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6
Review the adjuster's scope line-by-line before signing
Common omissions on LI claims: ice-and-water shield at eaves, drip edge, ridge venting, and code-upgrade allowance. Your contractor can supplement these in writing.
Common follow-up questions
What does my homeowners policy actually cover?
Standard NY HO-3 policies cover sudden, accidental damage from windstorm, hail, and falling tree limbs (not flood — flood is FEMA NFIP). Most policies have a separate, percentage-based hurricane / windstorm deductible (1–5% of dwelling coverage) for named storms; check your declarations page before assuming a flat deductible.
How quickly do I have to file?
NY policies typically require 'prompt notice' of loss (read: within days, not weeks). After Sandy, several insurers tightened windstorm-claim windows. Filing immediately also locks in the storm event date with your carrier — important when claims volume spikes regionally and adjusters dispute the cause months later.
Why are AOB and 'free roof' contractors a trap?
An Assignment of Benefits transfers your right to negotiate the claim — and receive any insurance payout — to the contractor. Storm chasers then inflate the scope, file supplements directly with your carrier, and (in NY since 2022 reforms) often leave homeowners on the hook when the carrier disputes inflated charges. Reputable Long Island roofers don't ask for AOB.
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Need help with this on Long Island?
NovaLee Solutions is a licensed roofing, solar, and electrical contractor serving Suffolk County and all of Long Island. Our crew is GAF-certified, Tesla-Powerwall-certified, and Suffolk County master-electrician licensed.