Storm Damage Roof Repair and Insurance Claims in Connecticut
Wind, hail and falling trees damage Connecticut roofs every year. Here is what a standard homeowners policy covers, the steps the Connecticut Insurance Department recommends, and how we document the damage for your adjuster.
Call (860) 969-4006Key Facts
- Connecticut policies cover windstorm damage regardless of how the storm is classified.
- A tree that falls on your house from a covered peril is covered. Tree removal is generally covered up to $500.
- A tree that falls without hitting a structure is generally not covered.
- Flood needs a separate policy with a 30-day waiting period.
- Every roofer in Connecticut must register with the Department of Consumer Protection.
If a storm damages your roof, photograph everything, make temporary repairs to stop more damage, report the claim promptly and let the adjuster inspect before permanent repairs. Hire a registered Connecticut contractor and never sign over your insurance check.
What Homeowners Insurance Covers in Connecticut
| Situation | Typical coverage |
|---|---|
| Wind tears off shingles | Covered, regardless of how the windstorm is classified |
| Hail damages the roof | Check your policy for hail coverage and any separate wind and hail deductible. |
| Tree falls on the house | Covered when a covered peril brings it down. Removal generally covered up to $500. |
| Tree falls in the yard, hits nothing | Generally not covered |
| Your tree falls on a neighbor's house | The neighbor's insurer pays, unless you were negligent |
| Flooding | Not covered. Requires a separate flood policy. |
| Old, worn shingles | Usually not covered. Most policies pay for sudden damage, not age. Check your policy. |
Wind and Hail Deductibles
Connecticut insurers are not allowed to require a separate wind and hail deductible. If you chose one, it is either a flat dollar amount or a percentage of your dwelling coverage. Hurricane deductibles apply only during a window set by a National Hurricane Center warning. Check your declarations page before you file.
Steps to Take After Storm Damage
- Stay safe. Stay off the roof and away from downed lines.
- Document it. Take photos and video of the damage before any cleanup.
- Stop more damage. Tarp openings and keep receipts for temporary repairs.
- Report the claim promptly. Call your insurer and write down every conversation.
- Wait for the adjuster. Keep damaged materials until the adjuster reviews them, and hold off on permanent repairs.
- Get a written repair scope. A registered contractor documents the damage and prices the repair.
- Protect your money. Never pay the full amount upfront or sign over your insurance check.
How Premier Helps With Storm Damage
- Roof inspection with photo documentation of every damaged area.
- A clear written scope of work for your adjuster to review.
- Repairs to code and to Owens Corning standards.
- Full replacement with ice and water shield when the damage calls for it.
If you want someone to negotiate the claim for you, use a public adjuster licensed by the Connecticut Insurance Department, or an attorney.
How to Spot a Storm Chaser
- Knocks on doors right after a storm.
- Wants cash or a wire transfer only.
- Has no written contract. Connecticut law requires one, with a three-business-day cancellation notice.
- Shows no Connecticut Home Improvement Contractor registration. Look up any contractor at elicense.ct.gov.
- Asks you to sign before the adjuster inspects.
Registration matters. Homeowners who hire a registered contractor have access to the state Home Improvement Guaranty Fund if the job goes wrong.
Repair or Replace After a Storm?
Scattered missing shingles on a newer roof usually need a repair. Widespread hail bruising, a punctured deck or a roof near the end of its life usually means replacement. See our roof cost guide for 2026 Connecticut pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does homeowners insurance cover wind damage to my roof in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut policies cover windstorm damage regardless of how the storm is classified. A separate wind and hail deductible applies only if you chose one.
Will insurance pay to remove a fallen tree?
When a tree damaged by a covered peril hits your house or another covered structure, the damage is covered and removal is generally covered up to $500. A tree that hits nothing is generally not covered.
Should I sign a contract before the adjuster comes?
No. The Connecticut Insurance Department advises waiting until the adjuster examines the damage before signing repair contracts or making permanent repairs.
How do I check if a roofer is registered in Connecticut?
Search the contractor on elicense.ct.gov. Every home improvement contractor, roofers included, must register with the Department of Consumer Protection.
Does insurance cover an old roof that leaks?
Usually not. Most homeowners policies pay for sudden damage from a covered event, not for age or wear. Check your policy wording.
Sources
- CT Insurance Department: Homeowners storm claims
- CT Insurance Department: Homeowners storm claims FAQs
- CT Insurance Department: Consumer notice, July 8, 2026
- CT Insurance Department: Tips for filing storm claims
- CT Insurance Department: Public adjuster licensing
- CT DCP: Why home improvement registration matters
- CT DCP: Storm chaser warning
Last reviewed October 2026 by Adam H. Cooke, Premier Improvements.
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