Storm & insurance claim guide

Second Opinions and Third-Party Opinions on Roof Damage

When you and your insurance company disagree about your roof, a qualified outside opinion is the fastest way to settle what is actually up there. Here are your options, from free to formal, and what each one is good for.

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1. A second roofing contractor inspection (free)

The simplest second opinion. A reputable local roofer walks the roof, documents every slope and tells you whether the damage is storm-related, wear, or both. Look for a company with a local address, real reviews, manufacturer certifications and a written photo report — not just a verbal “you need a new roof.”

John Beal Roofing does these inspections for free. If we do not think you have storm damage, we say so.

2. An independent engineer report (paid)

Insurers sometimes hire engineers on disputed claims, and you can too. An independent engineer’s written report carries weight in tough cases — for example, when the dispute is whether damage is hail, foot traffic, manufacturing or age. You can also ask your insurer for a copy of any engineer report they relied on.

3. Appraisal under your policy

Many homeowner policies include an appraisal clause, typically used when the two sides agree there is a covered loss but disagree on how much it is worth. Each side hires an appraiser; if they cannot agree, an umpire decides. Read your policy for the exact rules, costs and deadlines.

4. A licensed public adjuster

A public adjuster represents you, not the insurance company, and handles the claim for a percentage of the settlement. They must be licensed in your state. A public adjuster can make sense on large or complicated losses.

5. An attorney

For coverage disputes — whether something is covered at all — or claims you believe were handled in bad faith, an attorney who handles insurance claims can review your policy and denial.

6. Your state insurance department

Every state has a consumer complaint process for insurance disputes. It costs nothing and insurers are required to respond. In our states that is the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance, Kansas Insurance Department, Illinois Department of Insurance, Indiana Department of Insurance, Ohio Department of Insurance, Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services, Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance, Minnesota Department of Commerce, Iowa Insurance Division and Nebraska Department of Insurance.

Where John Beal Roofing fits

John Beal Roofing is a roofing contractor, not a public adjuster or a law firm. We inspect, document and explain roof damage, and we will meet your adjuster on the roof to show what we found. Negotiating the claim itself is between you and your insurance company, or a licensed public adjuster or attorney you choose. Nothing on this page is legal advice — your policy wording controls.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I get a second opinion on my roof after a hail claim?

Yes, if the adjuster’s findings do not match what you see, or the estimate leaves out slopes, gutters or vents. A free second inspection from a local roofer is the simplest place to start.

What is the difference between a public adjuster and a roofer?

A licensed public adjuster represents you in negotiating the claim. A roofer inspects, documents and repairs the roof. John Beal Roofing is a roofer: we document damage and meet your adjuster, but we do not negotiate claims.

What is the appraisal clause in a homeowners policy?

Many policies include an appraisal process for disagreements over the amount of a loss. Each side picks an appraiser and an umpire settles any differences. Your policy sets the rules.

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