When a storm strips slates from your roof or a branch comes through the tiles, the first worry is keeping the weather out. The second is usually the insurance claim. Most buildings policies expect you to show what was damaged, how it happened and what the repair will involve, and that is where we can help.
Newcastle Roofs inspects the roof, takes dated photographs, writes a report describing the damage and its likely cause as we see it, and prices the repair in an itemised quote. You send that to your insurer or loss adjuster. We are clear from the outset that the insurer decides what your policy covers. Our job is to give an honest, accurate account of the roof so that decision rests on facts.
What insurers usually want to establish
Every policy is worded differently, so read your own schedule first. In general, an insurer handling a storm claim wants to establish three things: that there were storm conditions around the date of the damage, that the damage looks like the kind a storm causes, and that the storm, rather than an underlying problem, was the main cause.
That last point is where many roof claims are decided. Policies commonly exclude wear and tear and anything that has happened gradually, such as corroded slate nails, perished mortar or felt that has rotted over years. A roof can have both: an ageing covering with fresh, wind-lifted damage on top. Our report sets out what we can see on each part of the roof so the distinction is clear.
What our report and quote include
- Dated photographs of the damaged areas, close-up and in context, plus any internal staining you show us.
- A written description of what has failed, where, and what we believe caused it, including anything pre-existing we noticed.
- An itemised quote separating storm-related repairs from general maintenance, so the insurer can see exactly what is being claimed.
- Notes on temporary work carried out to make the roof safe, with before and after photos.
If the insurer sends its own surveyor or loss adjuster, we can explain our findings to them if you would like us to. We will not overstate damage or blur maintenance items into a claim, which protects you as much as anyone.
Storm damage on North East roofs
Westerly and south-westerly gales are the most frequent, but northerly and easterly storms off the North Sea can strike from an unexpected direction and catch slopes that rarely see severe weather. Exposed homes on the coast and on higher ground take the brunt. On older terraces across Newcastle, typical casualties are Welsh slates that slide out once their nails have weakened, ridge tiles lifted where the mortar has let go, and lead flashings peeled back at chimneys.
If you own a Tyneside flat, check your lease before claiming. The upstairs flat often holds and insures the roof and roof space, while gutters and downpipes may be shared. Landlords should also check whether their cover is a landlord policy with its own conditions.
Before you contact your insurer
- Make the property safe: keep people away from fallen debris and switch off electrics in any area where water is coming in.
- Photograph the damage from the ground and inside, noting the date and time.
- Arrange temporary weatherproofing if water is getting in, as most policies expect you to prevent further damage. Our 24/7 emergency service can sheet or patch the roof.
- Keep damaged slates, tiles or flashing where practical, as an adjuster may want to see them.
- Ask whether your insurer wants to approve the repair before permanent work starts.
