Lake Orion Hail Damage? Roof Repair & Insurance Guide

By: NEXT Exteriors Published: February 19, 2026 Reading Time: 12 minutes

If you're reading this, chances are you just watched golf ball-sized hail pound your Lake Orion roof, or you're noticing suspicious damage after one of Oakland County's severe summer storms. Either way, you're probably wondering: Is this bad enough to file a claim? Will my insurance cover it? And how do I find a contractor who won't try to sell me a roof I don't need?

We've been handling storm damage restoration in Southeast Michigan since 1988, and we've walked hundreds of Lake Orion homeowners through this exact situation. Here's what you need to know about identifying hail damage, working with your insurance company, and getting your roof repaired the right way.

How to Spot Hail Damage on Your Lake Orion Roof

The first thing to understand: hail damage isn't always obvious from the ground. You might see dents in your gutters or siding, but the roof damage that matters most to your insurance company requires a closer look.

Here's what we look for during a post-storm inspection for our Detroit roofing services clients in Lake Orion:

Ground-Level Warning Signs

Check your gutters and downspouts first. If you see dents or dings on the metal, that's a strong indicator your roof took hits too. Hail doesn't discriminate—if it damaged horizontal surfaces like your AC condenser or patio furniture, it definitely hit your roof.

Look at your siding. Vinyl siding shows hail impact as cracks or punctures. Fiber cement or James Hardie siding might show chips or divots. If you're seeing damage to vertical surfaces, your roof—which takes the full force of falling hail—almost certainly has damage worth documenting.

Examine window screens and frames. Torn screens or dented aluminum frames are clear evidence of hail size and impact force. This documentation helps when you file your claim.

What Hail Damage Looks Like on Shingles

On the roof itself, hail damage appears differently depending on shingle age and quality. Here's what a licensed inspector looks for:

Granule loss. When hail strikes an asphalt shingle, it knocks off the protective ceramic granules on the surface. You'll see dark spots where the asphalt mat underneath is exposed. This is the most common form of hail damage and the easiest for insurance adjusters to document.

Bruising or soft spots. Press gently on a suspected impact area. If the shingle feels soft or spongy, the hail compressed the fiberglass mat underneath. This weakens the shingle's structural integrity even if you can't see obvious surface damage.

Cracking or fractures. Larger hail (1.5 inches or bigger) can crack shingles outright, especially on older roofs where the asphalt has become brittle from UV exposure. These cracks often don't appear until weeks after the storm as the shingle flexes with temperature changes.

Shiny spots or impact marks. Fresh hail damage often appears as shiny, dark circles where the impact compressed the granules into the asphalt. Over time, these spots weather and become harder to identify—which is why documenting damage quickly matters.

Don't climb on your roof yourself. After 35 years in this business, we've seen too many homeowners hurt themselves trying to inspect storm damage. A licensed contractor has the proper safety equipment, knows what to look for, and can document everything your insurance company needs. Call us at (844) 770-6398 for a free inspection.

What Hail Actually Does to Roofing Materials

Understanding the mechanics of hail damage helps you make informed decisions about repair versus replacement—and helps you push back if an insurance adjuster tries to minimize your claim.

The Physics of Impact

Hail falling from 10,000+ feet reaches terminal velocity around 50-70 mph for stones between 1-2 inches in diameter. When that ice ball hits your shingles, several things happen simultaneously:

The impact compresses the fiberglass mat that gives the shingle its tensile strength. Even if the surface looks okay, this compression creates weak points where tears and cracks will develop over time. The protective granule layer—designed to shield the asphalt from UV degradation—gets knocked loose. Without that protection, the asphalt binder breaks down exponentially faster under Michigan's intense summer sun.

The asphalt itself can fracture at the molecular level, creating microcracks invisible to the naked eye but devastating for long-term performance. These microcracks allow water penetration, leading to accelerated deterioration during our freeze-thaw cycles.

How Different Shingle Types Respond to Hail

Not all roofing materials handle hail the same way. Here's what we've observed across hundreds of storm damage inspections in Oakland County:

Standard 3-tab shingles are the most vulnerable. Their thinner profile and single-layer construction mean less impact resistance. A 1-inch hail stone can cause significant granule loss and bruising on a 3-tab roof, especially if the shingles are more than 10 years old.

Architectural (dimensional) shingles perform better due to their thicker, multi-layer construction. Brands like CertainTeed Landmark, GAF Timberline HDZ, and Owens Corning Duration have better impact resistance ratings. But they're not invincible—a severe storm with 2-inch hail will still cause damage requiring replacement.

Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles are specifically engineered for hail-prone areas. Products like CertainTeed's StreakFighter IR or GAF's ArmorShield II use modified asphalt formulations and reinforced mats to withstand impacts up to 2 inches. Some insurance companies offer premium discounts for Class 4 shingles—worth asking about if you're replacing your roof after hail damage.

We install all three major brands through our exterior services in Detroit and across Southeast Michigan. As a CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator—the highest credential in residential roofing—we can help you choose the right replacement material based on your budget and risk tolerance.

The Long-Term Consequences of Untreated Hail Damage

Here's what many homeowners don't realize: hail damage is progressive. What looks like minor cosmetic damage today becomes a major leak three years from now.

Once the granule layer is compromised, UV radiation breaks down the asphalt binder at an accelerated rate. In Michigan's climate—where we see temperature swings from -10°F in January to 95°F in July—this deterioration happens fast. The exposed asphalt becomes brittle and cracks. Those cracks allow water penetration. During winter, that water freezes and expands, making the cracks worse. By the time you notice a leak in your ceiling, you're often looking at damaged decking, wet insulation, and potential mold issues.

This is why insurance companies will cover hail damage claims—they know that ignoring the problem leads to much more expensive water damage claims down the road. But you typically have a limited window to file, usually one year from the storm date in Michigan. After that, the insurance company can argue that any roof problems are due to normal wear and tear rather than the storm event.

The Insurance Claim Process for Hail Damage in Michigan

Filing a hail damage claim can feel intimidating, but the process is straightforward if you know what to expect. We've helped Lake Orion homeowners navigate hundreds of these claims, and here's the reality: insurance companies are businesses. They'll pay legitimate claims, but they won't go out of their way to maximize your payout. That's why documentation and timing matter.

Step 1: Document the Storm and Initial Damage

Before you even call your insurance company, gather evidence:

• Note the exact date and time of the hail storm. Check local news reports or the National Weather Service for official records showing hail size and severity in Lake Orion.
• Take photos of any visible damage from ground level—dented gutters, damaged siding, broken window screens, dents on outdoor furniture or vehicles.
• Check your neighbors. If multiple homes on your street are filing claims, that strengthens your case that this was a significant storm event.
• Look for physical evidence of hail on your property—ice accumulation in downspouts, damaged plants or landscaping, divots in soft ground.

Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company

Most homeowner policies require you to report potential damage "promptly" after a storm. In practice, this means within a few weeks. When you call, you're not committing to a claim yet—you're simply reporting that you believe there may be damage worth investigating.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster and schedule an inspection, typically within 1-2 weeks. Before that inspection happens, you should have your own documentation ready.

Step 3: Get a Professional Inspection from a Licensed Contractor

This is the most important step, and it's where many homeowners make mistakes. You need a licensed Michigan roofing contractor to inspect your roof and document all damage before the insurance adjuster arrives.

Here's why: Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their job is to assess damage accurately, but they're also incentivized to minimize claim payouts. A contractor's inspection report gives you leverage. If the adjuster's estimate doesn't match what your contractor found, you have documented evidence to challenge their assessment.

When we inspect a roof for hail damage, we provide:

• A detailed written report identifying every area of damage
• High-resolution photos showing granule loss, bruising, and impact marks
• Documentation of collateral damage (gutters, siding, flashing, vents)
• An estimate for repair or replacement based on current material and labor costs

We don't charge for storm damage inspections because we know that if you have legitimate damage, your insurance will cover the repairs—and if we do the work right, you'll recommend us to your neighbors. That's how we've built our reputation in Lake Orion and across Oakland County since 1988.

Step 4: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster

When the adjuster comes to inspect your roof, be present. Ideally, have your contractor there too. Walk the adjuster through the damage your contractor documented. Point out every area of concern.

Adjusters are trained to look for specific damage patterns. They'll check multiple areas of the roof—not just one or two shingles. Insurance companies typically require a certain density of hits per 100 square feet before they'll approve a full replacement. In Michigan, the threshold is usually 8-10 confirmed impact marks per test square (a 10x10 foot area).

If the adjuster finds sufficient damage, they'll approve either a repair or a full replacement. In most cases with significant hail damage, replacement is the only practical option—you can't patch a few shingles when the entire roof has been compromised.

Watch out for "matching" issues. If your roof has discontinued shingles, the insurance company may have to replace the entire roof even if only one slope shows obvious damage—because they can't match the color and style for a partial replacement. This is actually good for you, but adjusters don't always volunteer this information. Ask specifically about shingle availability and matching.

Step 5: Review the Adjuster's Estimate

The insurance company will send you a written estimate detailing what they'll cover. This estimate includes:

• The scope of work (repair vs. full replacement)
• Material specifications and quantities
• Labor costs
• Costs for related work (flashing, underlayment, ventilation, etc.)
• Your deductible amount

Compare this estimate line-by-line with your contractor's assessment. Common discrepancies we see:

• Missing items: Adjusters sometimes omit necessary components like ice and water shield, drip edge replacement, or proper ventilation upgrades required by current Michigan building code.
• Lowball labor rates: Insurance estimates often use outdated or regional-average labor rates that don't reflect actual contractor costs in Oakland County.
• Inadequate material allowances: The estimate might specify basic shingles when your existing roof has premium architectural shingles, or it might not account for the full cost of proper underlayment materials.

If the estimate is insufficient, your contractor can work with the insurance company to negotiate a supplement. This is standard practice. We handle supplement negotiations regularly, and insurance companies expect it. Don't accept an inadequate estimate just because it's what the adjuster initially wrote.

Step 6: Choose Your Contractor and Schedule the Work

Once the claim is approved and the scope is agreed upon, you'll receive an initial payment (usually the total estimate minus your deductible minus depreciation). The depreciation amount—called recoverable depreciation—gets paid after the work is completed and you submit final invoices.

Now you choose a contractor to do the work. This is where things can go sideways if you're not careful.

Choosing a Roofing Contractor After Hail Damage

After a major storm in Lake Orion, you'll see an influx of roofing contractors knocking on doors. Some are legitimate local companies ramping up their crews to handle increased demand. Others are "storm chasers"—out-of-state contractors who follow severe weather, do quick jobs, collect insurance checks, and disappear before warranty issues surface.

Here's how to tell the difference:

Red Flags: Storm Chasers and Scam Artists

They knock on your door unsolicited immediately after a storm. Legitimate contractors don't need to cold-call neighborhoods—our schedules fill up from referrals and existing customers. If someone shows up unannounced offering a "free roof inspection" and pressuring you to sign a contract on the spot, walk away.

They offer to "cover your deductible." This is insurance fraud. In Michigan, it's illegal for a contractor to waive or pay your deductible. If a contractor promises this, they're either inflating the claim (fraud) or planning to cut corners to make up the cost (shoddy work). Either way, you lose.

They have an out-of-state address or no permanent local office. Check their business license with Michigan LARA (Licensing and Regulatory Affairs). A legitimate residential builder in Michigan has a state license number you can verify online. If they can't provide that, don't hire them.

They push you to sign a contract before your insurance inspection. There's no reason to commit to a contractor before you know what your insurance will cover. A legitimate contractor will inspect your roof, help you document damage, and wait for your claim approval before asking for a contract signature.

Their estimate is significantly lower than others. If you get three estimates and one is 30% cheaper, that contractor is either planning to use inferior materials, skip necessary steps, or isn't including everything your insurance approved. The lowest bid is rarely the best value in roofing.

What to Look for in a Legitimate Contractor

Michigan residential builder's license. This is non-negotiable. Any contractor doing work over $600 in Michigan must be licensed. Verify the license at michigan.gov/lara.

Local presence and track record. How long have they been in business? Do they have a physical office you can visit? Can they provide references from recent projects in Lake Orion or nearby communities like Rochester Hills or Bloomfield Hills?

Manufacturer certifications. Certifications from CertainTeed, GAF, or Owens Corning indicate that the contractor has been trained in proper installation techniques and meets the manufacturer's quality standards. We're a CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator—the highest level of certification available—which means we can offer extended warranties that basic contractors can't.

Insurance and bonding. Ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. If a crew member gets hurt on your property and the contractor doesn't have workers' comp, you could be liable.

Detailed written estimates. A professional estimate breaks down materials, labor, and scope of work line by line. It should specify shingle brand and model, underlayment type, ventilation components, and any additional work like soffit and fascia installation or gutter replacement.

Clear communication about the insurance process. A contractor experienced in insurance work should be able to explain how supplements work, what your responsibilities are, and what they'll handle on your behalf. We've worked with every major insurance carrier operating in Michigan—we know their processes and can navigate them efficiently.

Questions to Ask Before Signing a Contract

• "What's your Michigan builder's license number?" If they hesitate or can't provide it immediately, end the conversation.
• "How long have you been working in Lake Orion and Oakland County?" You want someone familiar with local building codes, permit requirements, and weather conditions.
• "Can you provide references from recent insurance jobs?" Talk to those homeowners. Ask if the contractor showed up on time, stayed on budget, and handled the insurance paperwork professionally.
• "What manufacturer warranties do your installations qualify for?" Standard shingle warranties are 25-50 years, but they only cover manufacturing defects. Installation warranties—which cover labor and workmanship—vary by contractor. We offer extended warranties through our CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator certification.
• "How do you handle supplements and change orders?" If the insurance estimate doesn't cover everything needed, how does the contractor handle the additional cost? Will they negotiate with the insurance company, or will they expect you to pay out of pocket?
• "What's your typical timeline from contract signing to completion?" After a major storm, lead times can stretch to 6-8 weeks as contractors work through backlogs. A realistic timeline shows the contractor is busy (a good sign) but also organized enough to manage their schedule.

What Roof Repair or Replacement Costs in Lake Orion

Let's talk numbers. Most hail damage claims in Lake Orion result in full roof replacements rather than repairs—because once you have widespread granule loss across multiple slopes, patching a few shingles doesn't solve the underlying problem.

Typical Insurance Coverage

If your claim is approved, your insurance pays for:

• Complete tear-off and disposal of existing roofing materials
• New underlayment (typically synthetic underlayment or felt paper, plus ice and water shield in valleys and eaves)
• New shingles matching the quality and style of your existing roof (or better, if the original product is discontinued)
• Flashing replacement around chimneys, skylights, and roof penetrations
• Ridge vent and ventilation components if your existing system is damaged or inadequate
• Drip edge and starter shingles
• Labor for installation

What insurance typically doesn't cover without negotiation:

• Upgrades beyond your existing system—if you had standard architectural shingles and you want to upgrade to Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, you'll pay the difference
• Decking replacement unless the adjuster documents that the hail or subsequent water damage compromised the plywood or OSB sheathing
• Gutter replacement unless the gutters show documented hail damage (which they often do—those dents you see aren't just cosmetic)
• Code upgrades required by current Michigan building code but not present on your original roof—some policies include "code upgrade coverage," but many don't

Real Numbers for Lake Orion Roof Replacements

For a typical 2,000-square-foot Lake Orion home (about 22-25 squares of roofing), here's what a full replacement costs in 2026:

Standard architectural shingles (CertainTeed Landmark, GAF Timberline HDZ, or Owens Corning Duration): $8,500 - $12,000 installed, depending on roof complexity, pitch, and accessibility.

Premium architectural shingles (CertainTeed Northgate, GAF Timberline UHDZ): $10,000 - $14,500 installed.

Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles: $11,000 - $15,500 installed. The upfront cost is higher, but you may qualify for insurance premium discounts that offset the difference over time.

These numbers include tear-off, disposal, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and labor. They assume a moderately complex roof—two stories, a few valleys, standard chimney and plumbing vents. If your roof has multiple dormers, steep pitch (8:12 or higher), or requires special access equipment, expect costs on the higher end of these ranges.

Your Out-of-Pocket Cost

If your insurance approves a full replacement, your only out-of-pocket cost is your deductible. Standard homeowner policy deductibles in Michigan range from $500 to $2,500, with $1,000 being most common.

Here's how the payment works:

1. Insurance sends you an initial check for the full claim amount minus your deductible and minus depreciation (usually 20-30% of the total).
2. You pay the contractor from this initial payment, plus your deductible out of pocket.
3. After the work is completed, you submit final invoices and photos to the insurance company.
4. Insurance sends a second check for the recoverable depreciation amount.

If you're working with a reputable contractor, they'll work with you on payment timing. We typically don't require full payment until the job is complete and you're satisfied—though we do ask for the deductible amount upfront to cover materials ordering.

What if the insurance estimate doesn't cover actual costs? This happens sometimes, especially if the adjuster used outdated pricing or missed necessary components. Your contractor can file a supplement request with documentation showing why additional costs are justified. We handle this regularly—it's a normal part of the insurance claims process. Don't assume you have to pay the difference out of pocket without pushing back.

Additional Costs to Consider

While you're replacing your roof, consider addressing related issues that might not be covered by insurance but make sense to handle while crews are already on site:

Gutter replacement: If your gutters show hail damage, they should be covered. But if they're just old and you want to upgrade to heavier-gauge seamless gutters in Detroit, MI and surrounding areas, that's an out-of-pocket cost—typically $800-1,500 for a standard home.

Attic insulation upgrades: If the crew is already in your attic working on ventilation, it's an ideal time to assess your insulation. Michigan's current energy code requires R-49 in attics, but many older homes have R-19 or less. Adding insulation isn't covered by your roof claim, but it's a cost-effective upgrade. Our top-rated insulation contractor services can assess your current R-value and provide a quote.

Skylight replacement: If you have older skylights, consider replacing them during the roof job. Skylights are a common source of leaks, and addressing them while the roof is open saves money versus doing it later. We handle skylight installation and leak-proofing throughout Oakland County.

Why Lake Orion Gets Hit Hard by Hail Storms

If you've lived in Lake Orion for more than a few years, you know that severe weather is part of the deal. But why does Oakland County seem to get hammered by hail more than other parts of Southeast Michigan?

Geography and Weather Patterns

Lake Orion sits in northern Oakland County, where several meteorological factors converge to create ideal conditions for severe thunderstorms and hail:

Lake effect influence. While Lake Orion is inland from the Great Lakes, the atmospheric moisture from Lake Huron (about 40 miles east) and the more distant influence of Lake Michigan create instability in summer air masses. When warm, humid air from the south collides with cooler air over the lakes, you get the rapid updrafts necessary for hail formation.

Convective storm corridors. Southeast Michigan sits in a zone where warm fronts from the Gulf of Mexico frequently clash with cold Canadian air masses. These collisions create strong convective storms—the kind with towering cumulonimbus clouds that produce large hail. Lake Orion's location puts it directly in one of these common storm tracks.

Urban heat island effects. The Detroit metro area creates a heat island effect that can intensify storms as they approach from the west. Storms often strengthen as they move over the warmer urban areas, then unleash their energy as they reach the northern suburbs like Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, and Bloomfield Hills.

Historical Storm Data

National Weather Service records show that Oakland County experiences significant hail events (1 inch or larger) an average of 2-3 times per year. The most severe storms—with hail 2 inches or larger—occur roughly once every 3-5 years.

Recent severe hail events in Lake Orion and surrounding areas:

• July 2021: A severe thunderstorm produced golf ball-sized hail across northern Oakland County, causing widespread roof and vehicle damage from Lake Orion to Clarkston.
• August 2020: Multiple hail storms hit the area, with some reports of 2-inch hail in Lake Orion and Rochester Hills.
• June 2018: A particularly intense storm produced baseball-sized hail in parts of Oakland County, leading to thousands of insurance claims.

The pattern is clear: if you own a home in Lake Orion, you're going to deal with hail damage at some point. The question isn't if, but when—and whether you'll be prepared to handle the insurance claim and repairs efficiently.

What This Means for Lake Orion Homeowners

Given the frequency of severe weather in Oakland County, here are some practical considerations:

Consider impact-resistant shingles when replacing your roof. The upfront cost is higher, but Class 4 shingles significantly reduce the likelihood of damage in future storms. Some insurance companies offer 10-20% premium discounts for impact-resistant roofing, which can offset the cost difference over the life of the roof.

Document your roof's condition regularly. Take photos of your roof (or have a contractor do it) every few years. This documentation helps establish a baseline condition, which can be valuable if you need to prove that damage is storm-related rather than normal wear.

Know your insurance policy details. What's your deductible? Do you have replacement cost coverage or actual cash value coverage? (Replacement cost is better—it pays for a new roof regardless of your old roof's age. Actual cash value depreciates the payout based on your roof's age.) Does your policy include code upgrade coverage? Understanding these details before you need to file a claim saves stress later.

Have a contractor relationship established. Don't wait until after a storm to find a roofing contractor. If you know who you'll call when damage happens, you can move quickly to document everything and file your claim before the insurance company's backlog gets overwhelming.

Need a Hail Damage Inspection in Lake Orion?

NEXT Exteriors has been protecting Michigan homes since 1988. We're a CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator with an A+ BBB rating and 5.0-star reviews across 87+ projects. We'll inspect your roof, document any damage, and help you navigate the insurance process—no charge for the inspection, no pressure to sign anything until you're ready.

Get Your Free Inspection

Or call us directly: (844) 770-6398

Other Services from NEXT Exteriors

While we're known for our Detroit roofing services, we're a full-service exterior contractor serving Lake Orion and all of Southeast Michigan. If your home took hail damage to the roof, chances are your siding, windows, or gutters were affected too.

Our house siding company in Detroit handles everything from vinyl to James Hardie fiber cement. We've written extensively about the best siding for Michigan freeze-thaw cycles and vinyl vs. fiber cement siding if you're considering an upgrade.

If your windows took a beating, our Detroit window experts can assess whether you need repairs or full replacements. We also handle exterior painting in Southeast Michigan using Sherwin-Williams products exclusively.

And if you're dealing with the aftermath of storm damage, don't overlook the importance of proper attic ventilation and insulation. Poor ventilation contributes to ice dam formation in winter—which can compound existing hail damage. Our insulation services include attic assessments and upgrades to current Michigan energy code standards.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Orion Hail Damage

How soon after a hail storm should I file an insurance claim? +

File as soon as you've confirmed damage, ideally within 2-4 weeks of the storm. Most Michigan homeowner policies require "prompt" notification, and while there's no specific deadline, waiting too long can complicate your claim. Insurance companies may argue that damage discovered months later is due to normal wear rather than the storm. That said, you typically have up to one year from the storm date to file in Michigan—but the sooner you act, the easier the process.

Will filing a hail damage claim raise my insurance rates? +

Generally no. Hail damage is considered a "no-fault" claim in Michigan—it's an act of nature, not something you caused through negligence. Most insurance companies won't raise your rates for a single weather-related claim. However, if you file multiple claims within a few years, or if your entire neighborhood files claims from the same storm (indicating a high-risk area), you might see rate adjustments at renewal. This is more about actuarial risk assessment than penalizing you for filing a legitimate claim.

Can I choose my own roofing contractor, or does insurance assign one? +

You absolutely choose your own contractor. Some insurance companies have "preferred contractor" networks and may suggest specific companies, but you are not required to use them. In fact, we generally recommend getting at least two estimates from licensed contractors you research independently. The insurance company pays for the work based on their approved estimate, but you decide who does the actual installation. Choose based on reputation, licensing, and quality—not just because an insurance company recommended them.

What if my roof is older—will insurance still cover hail damage? +

It depends on your policy type. If you have "replacement cost" coverage, the insurance company pays to replace your roof with new materials regardless of age, minus your deductible. If you have "actual cash value" coverage, they depreciate the payout based on your roof's age—so a 15-year-old roof might only get 50% of replacement cost. Check your policy declarations page to see which type you have. Most homeowners in Lake Orion have replacement cost coverage, which is why it's worth filing a claim even if your roof is older—the insurance company still pays for a new roof.

How long does a typical hail damage roof replacement take? +

The actual installation takes 1-3 days for most Lake Orion homes, depending on size and complexity. However, the timeline from claim filing to completion is longer—typically 4-8 weeks. This includes time for the insurance adjuster's inspection (1-2 weeks), claim processing (1-2 weeks), contractor scheduling (1-3 weeks depending on season and backlog), and the actual work (1-3 days). After major storms, these timelines can extend as contractors and adjusters work through high claim volumes. The key is getting the process started quickly so you're in the queue.

Should I get a temporary tarp or repair before the insurance inspection? +

If you have active leaks causing interior damage, yes—make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Most policies require you to mitigate additional damage, and emergency repairs are typically covered. Take photos before and after any temporary work, and save all receipts. However, don't do permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects—you need them to see the full extent of storm damage. If you're not sure whether you have leaks, have a contractor do a quick inspection to assess urgency. We offer emergency tarp services for Lake Orion homeowners when needed.

What happens if I disagree with the insurance adjuster's assessment? +

You have options. First, provide additional documentation—photos, contractor reports, or a second opinion from another licensed inspector. Request that the adjuster re-inspect with your contractor present to walk through disputed areas. If that doesn't resolve it, you can request a supervisory review within the insurance company. As a last resort, you can hire a public adjuster (who works for you, not the insurance company) or invoke your policy's appraisal clause, which brings in a neutral third-party appraiser. Most disputes get resolved at the documentation or re-inspection stage—insurance companies will adjust their estimates when presented with clear evidence.