Insurance
Filing a Roof Insurance Claim in Washington: A Homeowner's Guide
Wind, hail and tree-fall claims are common in the PNW. Here's how to document damage and work with your adjuster without giving up money you're entitled to.
April 2, 2026·7 min read
Document before you touch anything
Take wide and close-up photos of every visible damage point, ideally with a time-stamp. Get photos of the inside ceiling/attic if there's a leak.
Get a contractor inspection before the adjuster
A licensed roofer can identify damage an adjuster might miss — bruised shingles, lifted ridge caps, hidden flashing failures.
Understand ACV vs RCV
Actual Cash Value pays the depreciated value up front. Replacement Cost Value pays the rest once the work is complete and invoiced. Most modern policies are RCV — read yours.
Don't sign assignment-of-benefits paperwork at the door
If a storm chaser knocks asking you to sign AOB paperwork before any inspection, walk away. That's how homeowners lose control of their own claim.