A Simple, Step-by-Step Guide to Storm Damage Claims in Wisconsin
Dealing with storm damage can feel overwhelming—especially when insurance is involved. At Duration Exteriors, our job is to remove the confusion, protect your interests, and guide you through the process from start to finish.
Below is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how the insurance claim process works in Wisconsin, what to expect at each stage, and how Duration Exteriors supports you the entire way.
Step 1: A Storm Happens
In Wisconsin, hail and wind storms are common—and damage isn’t always obvious from the ground.
Common signs of storm damage include:
- Hail hits or bruising on shingles
- Missing, cracked, or lifted shingles
- Dents in siding, gutters, or fascia
- Granules collecting at downspouts
- Leaks or water stains after a storm
If you suspect damage, the next step is a professional inspection.
Step 2: Free Inspection by Duration Exteriors
A Duration Exteriors representative will come out to inspect your property at no cost.
During this inspection, we:
- Safely inspect the roof, siding, and exterior
- Identify storm-related damage (if present)
- Take photos and document findings
- Show you exactly what we see—good or bad
If there is no damage, we tell you. We will never push a claim that doesn’t make sense.
If there is damage, we explain:
- What was damaged
- Why it qualifies as storm damage
- Whether filing an insurance claim is appropriate
Step 3: Filing the Insurance Claim
If you choose to move forward, we guide you through filing the claim with your insurance company.
This usually involves:
- Calling your insurance carrier or filing online
- Providing basic storm and property information
- Receiving a claim number
Important for Wisconsin homeowners: Filing a claim does not mean you are automatically committed to repairs. It simply starts the inspection and review process.
Step 4: Adjuster Inspection (We’re There With You)
Your insurance company will schedule an inspection with one of their adjusters.
At Duration Exteriors:
- The same representative who inspected your home meets the adjuster
- We walk the property together
- We point out all documented storm damage
- We answer adjuster questions on the spot
This ensures nothing is missed and prevents misunderstandings.
Step 5: Claim Decision & Scope Review
After the adjuster visit, the insurance company issues a claim decision and scope of work.
If the claim is approved, we schedule a meeting to review everything with you.
We break down:
- Your deductible
- ACV (Actual Cash Value) – the initial payment
- RCV (Replacement Cost Value) – the remaining funds released after completion
- What the insurance company is paying for
- What still may need to be addressed
We explain the numbers in plain language so you understand exactly how your claim works.
Step 6: Timeline & Project Planning
Once the claim is approved, we outline a clear timeline.
This includes:
- Material selection
- Ordering products
- Scheduling crews
- Expected start and completion dates
Material Selection
You’ll choose:
- Roofing shingles (including Class 4 impact-resistant options)
- Siding styles and colors (vinyl or LP SmartSide)
- Gutters, fascia, and soffit options
We help you choose materials that fit your home, budget, and long-term goals.
Step 7: Supplementing the Claim (If Needed)
Sometimes insurance scopes miss items or underprice work. This is common.
If that happens:
- Our back-office team submits supplements using Xactimate
- We provide documentation, photos, and justifications
- We communicate directly with the insurance carrier
This process happens behind the scenes, so you don’t have to deal with it.
Our goal is to make sure all storm-related damage is fully covered.
Step 8: Installation Day – What to Expect
Before work begins, we explain exactly what will happen.
On installation day:
- Crews arrive on schedule
- Landscaping and property are protected
- Old materials are removed
- New materials are installed to manufacturer standards
- Job sites are cleaned thoroughly
A project manager oversees the work to ensure quality and safety.
Step 9: Completion, Walkthrough & Paperwork
Once the work is complete:
- We perform a final walkthrough with you
- Address any questions or concerns
- Provide a Certificate of Completion
- Submit required documents to your insurance company
This step is required for the insurance carrier to release the remaining RCV funds.
Step 10: Final Payment & Warranty
After the insurance company releases the final payment:
- We coordinate final payment
- Ensure all paperwork is complete
- Close out the project properly
Our Warranty
Duration Exteriors provides:
- A 5-year workmanship warranty
- Manufacturer warranties on materials
- Ongoing support if questions come up
We stand behind our work long after the job is done.
Why This Process Works for Wisconsin Homeowners
Wisconsin insurance claims have specific timelines, depreciation rules, and documentation requirements. Our experience working storm claims in this state allows us to:
- Avoid delays
- Prevent underpaid claims
- Reduce homeowner stress
- Deliver predictable results
Our Role: Advocate, Guide, and Partner
At Duration Exteriors, we don’t just repair homes—we guide homeowners through one of the most confusing processes they’ll face.
From the first inspection to the final walkthrough, we:
- Communicate clearly
- Handle the insurance details
- Protect your interests
- Restore your home the right way
If you think your home may have storm damage, the first step is simple.
Schedule a free inspection with Duration Exteriors and let our insurance experts take it from there.