Most UK home insurance covers storm and accidental roof damage, but claims get rejected all the time for avoidable reasons. Follow this and your claim will succeed.

Step 1: check your policy before you call

  • Confirm buildings insurance is active (not just contents)
  • Note your excess (usually £100 to £350)
  • Look for "wear and tear" exclusions (insurers often reject for this if the roof was old)
  • Check "storm" definition (usually wind speeds over 55mph, hail, or heavy snow)

Step 2: document within 24 hours

  • Time-stamped photos of visible damage from ground level
  • Interior water damage photos
  • Screenshot of the Met Office weather warning if applicable
  • Keep the storm date and time in a note

Step 3: call insurance for the claim number

Do this before booking any repair. Get the claim reference in writing. Ask if they have a panel contractor requirement, but note you can decline and use your own contractor.

Step 4: get a proper contractor to survey

Free drone survey is standard now. We produce a photo report showing exactly what is damaged, itemised quote for the repair, and format that insurers accept. Do not accept doorstep contractors; they are the number-one cause of rejected claims.

Step 5: submit the quote

Your insurer will either:

  • Accept the quote and authorise the work
  • Send their own loss adjuster to inspect
  • Request a second quote

Step 6: manage the loss adjuster visit

If they send an adjuster, be present at the visit. Show them the drone survey photos. Be polite but firm about the scope of damage. Adjusters are trying to minimise the settlement; a proper contractor report protects you.

Step 7: work goes ahead

Once approved, work is scheduled. Excess is deducted from the settlement. You may be asked to pay the excess to the contractor and reclaim, or the contractor invoices the insurer direct less the excess.

Common rejection reasons and how to avoid them

  • "Wear and tear": Provide dated photos from before the storm if you have them (Google Streetview screenshots work). Show the damage is fresh.
  • "No storm force winds recorded": Cross-reference the nearest Met Office station.
  • "Undisclosed pre-existing damage": Never omit that you had a previous minor issue. It voids the claim.
  • "Poor maintenance": Regular gutter clearance and small proactive repairs are your evidence of proper maintenance.