Navigating Roof Insurance Claims After a South Carolina Storm

When a tropical storm or hurricane sweeps through Bluffton, the physical damage is stressful enough. But for many homeowners, the real headache begins the next morning: dealing with the insurance company.

Insurance policies can be confusing, filled with technical jargon like “ACV,” “RCV,” and “Deductibles.”

At New River Roofing, we have helped hundreds of Lowcountry homeowners navigate this process. While we are not insurance adjusters, we are roofing experts who know exactly what damage looks like and how to ensure your home gets the coverage it deserves.

1. Is It Wind or Flood? (The Critical Distinction)

Living on the coast, this is the most important distinction to understand.

• Flood Insurance: Typically covers rising water (storm surge) that enters your home from the ground up.
• Homeowners Insurance: Typically covers wind damage (roofing) and water that enters from the “top down” (rain entering through a hole in the roof).

If your shingles were ripped off and rain soaked your ceiling, that is usually a standard homeowners claim.

2. Document Everything Immediately

The “burden of proof” is on you. As soon as it is safe:

• Take photos of shingles on the ground.
• Take clear photos of water stains on your ceiling.
• Note the exact date and time the damage occurred.
• Do not throw away damaged items until the adjuster sees them.

3. Call a Local Roofer Before the Adjuster

This might sound backward, but it is often smart to have a professional roofer inspect the damage before you file a claim.

Why? If the damage is less than your deductible (e.g., a $500 repair when you have a $2,000 deductible), filing a claim might raise your premiums without getting you any money.

New River Roofing offers free storm inspections to help you decide if filing a claim makes financial sense.

4. The Adjuster Meeting: Don’t Go It Alone

When the insurance adjuster comes to your home, they represent the insurance company’s interests. You need someone representing yours.

We recommend having a New River Roofing representative present during the adjuster’s inspection. We can walk the roof with them, point out damage they might miss (like subtle hail impact or lifted shingles), and ensure they agree on the “scope of work” right then and there.

5. Beware of “Waived Deductibles”

If a “storm chaser” knocks on your door and offers to “waive your deductible” or pay it for you, close the door.

It is illegal in South Carolina for a contractor to pay a homeowner’s deductible. It is often a sign of insurance fraud. Stick with a local, licensed company that follows the law.

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