A tree branch cracks a rafter, hail dents the shingles, or a nor'easter tears off a section of roof. If you've never filed a claim, the process is more predictable than most homeowners think — but insurance companies are getting stricter about what they'll cover. Here's the honest breakdown.
What's usually covered
Wind damage. If a storm rips off shingles or tears off flashings, that's a covered peril in almost every North Jersey homeowners policy. Winds don't have to be hurricane-force — sustained 40-50 mph gusts are enough to trigger a claim if there's visible damage.
Falling objects. Tree branch, dead tree, chunk of ice from a plane (yes, we've seen it) — if something falls on your roof, it's covered, including removal of the object.
Hail damage. Less common in North Jersey than the Midwest, but it happens. Hail dents leave circular impressions in shingles and metal flashings. If it's within the policy's storm date, it's covered.
Water damage from the roof leak. If a covered storm damages the roof and water gets in and ruins the ceiling, drywall, or floors, that's usually covered too under the same claim.
What's usually NOT covered
Wear and tear. A 25-year-old roof failing because it's old is not covered. Insurance is for sudden and accidental damage, not deferred maintenance. This is why you should replace an aging roof before it fails during a storm — if it goes down from age plus storm, you may only get partial coverage.
Poor maintenance. If your roof failed because gutters were clogged for a decade or flashings were never sealed, the adjuster will note it and can reduce or deny the claim.
Cosmetic damage only. A few small hail marks that don't affect the shingle's function — some newer policies exclude cosmetic-only damage.
What to do if you have storm damage
- Document it. Photos from the ground, from the attic, and (safely) from a ladder if you can. Note the date and time of the storm.
- Get a written contractor assessment. Not just a verbal — a written scope of damage. GeoBrix provides these free for storm claims.
- File the claim promptly. Most NJ policies require notice within 60 days.
- Meet the adjuster. Ask your contractor to be there. Adjusters and contractors speaking the same language solves most disputes.
- Don't sign anything until you understand it. Especially anything from a "storm chaser" who shows up uninvited after a storm — those often lock you into their contractor.
GeoBrix handles insurance-covered storm damage across North Jersey — roof, siding, water damage. Written estimates that work with your adjuster. Book a free storm assessment.