Storm Claims - What You Need To Know

 

When a storm hits and your roof takes a beating, the last thing any homeowner wants is a letter from their insurance company saying, 'Claim denied.' It’s frustrating—and it raises an important question: do insurance adjusters have to show you evidence when they deny your roof damage claim?

 

Let’s break it down according to Connecticut law and Brown Roofing’s experience working with thousands of homeowners across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties.

 

1. Connecticut Requires a Clear, Written Explanation

Under Connecticut General Statutes §38a-816(6)(N), it’s considered an unfair insurance practice if a company fails to provide a reasonable explanation for why they’re denying your claim. That means your insurer must give you a written denial letter that explains the specific policy provisions they’re relying on and the factual reasons for their decision. In plain English: they can’t just say 'not covered.' They need to show you exactly why.

 

“Homeowners deserve transparency,” says Eddie Griffin, Owner of Brown Roofing. “If your roof claim is denied, you should never be left guessing why. The insurance company has a duty to explain its reasoning clearly and back it up with real facts.”

 

2. Insurers Must Conduct a Reasonable Investigation

Before denying your roof claim, the insurer must perform a reasonable investigation based on all available information—not just a quick look from the curb or a few drone photos. If their inspection doesn’t match what you’re seeing (or what a certified roofer like Brown Roofing finds), that’s a red flag. Connecticut law prohibits insurers from denying a claim without a

proper investigation.

 

Eddie Griffin adds: “We’ve seen adjusters make snap decisions without even getting on the roof. That’s not a fair investigation. A real inspection means checking the attic, documenting storm patterns, and understanding the roof’s age and structure. Without that, a denial doesn’t hold weight.”

 

3. You Have the Right to Ask for Evidence

While insurers aren’t automatically required to hand over their entire internal file before litigation, you have every right to ask for supporting materials, including roof inspection reports, photos taken by the adjuster, and engineer evaluations. Many insurers will provide these once requested in writing. If they refuse or their explanation seems incomplete, you can take your case to the Connecticut Insurance Department for review.

 

“When you ask for documentation, do it in writing,” Eddie explains. “The more paper trail you have, the better. It shows you’re serious and that you know your rights.”

 

4. How to Appeal a Roof Claim Denial

If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision—and having an independent inspection from a licensed roofing contractor can make all the difference.

 

A strong appeal should include:

• A detailed inspection report from a certified roofer (like Brown Roofing)

• High-resolution photos showing storm or wind damage

• Documentation of recent storms that match the damage date

• A written explanation comparing your roofer’s findings to the insurer’s

 

Brown Roofing’s certified inspectors are trained to identify damage that’s often overlooked from the ground or by untrained adjusters. We provide comprehensive inspection reports—complete with photos, attic documentation, and repair estimates—to strengthen your appeal and help you prove the true condition of your roof.

 

Eddie Griffin explains: “When a homeowner comes to us after a denial, we document everything. We climb the roof, we look in the attic, and we use our expertise to show exactly where the damage is. That kind of evidence can turn a denial into an approval.”

 

If the insurer still refuses to reconsider, homeowners can request a re-inspection with both the adjuster and roofer present, file a formal complaint with the Connecticut Insurance Department, or consider mediation or legal review within their policy’s time limit (usually 18–24 months).

 

“The biggest mistake homeowners make,” says Eddie, “is giving up after the first ‘no.’ If your roof truly has damage, don’t stop there. Get an expert report, push for a re-inspection, and stand your ground.”

 

5. How to Protect Yourself

Here’s what Brown Roofing recommends homeowners do when a claim is denied:

• Ask in writing for the exact policy provisions and factual reasons behind the denial.

• Request copies of all inspection photos, engineer reports, or third-party findings.

• Have your roof inspected by a licensed contractor—not just the insurance adjuster.

• File a complaint with the Connecticut Insurance Department if the denial lacks clarity or appears unreasonable.

• Watch your deadlines—most policies give you 18–24 months from the date of loss to take legal action if needed.

 

Eddie Griffin reminds homeowners: “You pay your premiums to be protected, not ignored. With the right inspection and documentation, you can hold your insurance company accountable.”

 

6. The Brown Roofing Difference

At Brown Roofing, we go beyond inspections. We provide evidence-based documentation that helps homeowners navigate the complex world of insurance claims. Our reports are prepared by trained, certified professionals who understand both Connecticut’s building codes and the requirements insurance companies look for.

 

7. The Bottom Line

In Connecticut, insurance companies must explain why they’re denying your roof claim and must base that denial on a reasonable investigation. If they don’t—or can’t back it up with clear evidence—you have every right to challenge the decision.

 

If you’ve received a denial and want a second opinion from a certified Connecticut roofing inspector, call Brown Roofing today. We’ll inspect your roof, document every detail, and help you build a solid appeal—because Brown Won’t Let You Down.