You hear the hail pounding on your roof. The next morning, you see dented siding, missing shingles, and gutters that look like they went through a war.

Your insurance will cover it – but only if you file correctly.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to filing a storm damage claim in Calgary so you get the repairs you deserve without delays or denials.

Step 1: Document everything immediately

Before you touch anything, take photos and video.

Walk around your entire home and capture:

• Roof damage (from ground level with zoom – do not climb up)
• Dented siding and gutters
• Broken windows or screens
• Damaged fences, sheds, or AC units
• Any debris in your yard

Pro tip: Date-stamp your photos or use a free app like Timestamp Camera.

Calgary insurance adjusters have seen fraudulent claims. Clear, dated evidence protects you.

Step 2: Make temporary repairs (but keep receipts)

Your insurance policy requires you to prevent further damage.

• Roof leak? Place a tarp or bucket. Save the tarp receipt.
• Broken window? Board it up. Save the lumber receipt.
• Gutters torn off? Move them out of walkways.

Important: Do NOT throw away damaged materials until the adjuster has seen them. Stack debris in your yard.

Your insurance will reimburse reasonable temporary repair costs – but only if you save receipts.

Step 3: Call your insurance company – but say the right things

When you call, stick to facts. Do not guess.

Say this:

“On 2026, my home in [Calgary community] sustained damage from a hailstorm with estimated [golf ball / tennis ball] sized hail. I have photos and temporary repairs in place. I’d like to file a claim and schedule an adjuster visit.”

Do not say:

• “I think the roof is 25 years old anyway” (they may depreciate more)
• “It might have been leaking before” (pre-existing damage may be excluded)
• “I already hired someone” (let them inspect first)

Know your policy:

• Actual cash value (ACV): They deduct depreciation – you pay more out of pocket
• Replacement cost value (RCV): They pay full replacement cost after work is done

Most standard home policies in Alberta are RCV – but check yours.

Step 4: Meet the adjuster on your property

You have the right to be present during the inspection.

Before they arrive:

• Mark damage with chalk or tape (makes it easier for them to see)
• Have your photos ready on your phone
• Write down questions (e.g., “Will you cover upgrading my asphalt shingles to impact-resistant?”)

During the inspection:

• Walk the property together
• Point out everything you documented
• Ask: “What is being approved, and what is not?”
• Ask: “What is my deductible, and how is it applied?”

After they leave:

• Get their contact information
• Ask when you will receive the written scope of work

Step 5: Get a contractor’s quote (do not cash the first check)

Your insurance company will send you:

1. A scope of work (what they think needs repair)
2. An initial check (often ACV amount – actual cash value)

Do not cash the check until:

• You have a contractor’s quote that matches or exceeds the scope
• You understand what you’re agreeing to

Many Calgary homeowners deposit that first check – then later discover their contractor’s bid is much higher. You have to pay the difference.

Instead: Get a quote from Transformer Exteriors (free, no obligation). We compare our quote to your insurance scope line by line. If something is missing, we help you appeal.

Step 6: Appeals and supplements (when insurance underpays)

Insurance companies sometimes miss damage. It happens.

If your contractor finds additional damage not in the original scope:

• They submit a supplement with photos and explanation
• The insurance company reviews and (usually) approves additional funds

Common supplements we file for Calgary homeowners:

• Hidden decking rot under shingles
• Ice and water shield on eaves and valleys
• Upgraded drip edge and flashing

You are not stuck with the first check.

Step 7: Schedule repairs and final payment

Once scope and pricing are agreed:

1. Schedule your repair (we book 2–4 weeks out typically)
2. Work is completed
3. You receive a completion certificate from your contractor
4. Submit to insurance to release depreciated holdback (if RCV policy)

For RCV policies: The second check (depreciated amount) is released after work is done – not before. Budget accordingly.

Why storm damage claims work differently in Calgary

Several factors make Calgary unique:

How we help with your claim – for free

At Transformer Exteriors, we don’t bill insurance directly – but we make the process much easier.

When you call us after a storm:

1. We inspect your home for free
2. If we find storm damage, we document everything with photos
3. We meet the adjuster on-site (you don’t have to handle it alone)
4. We provide a detailed quote line by line
5. If the insurance scope misses something, we file a supplement

There’s no cost for the inspection or claim assistance – only for the repair work if you choose us.

When should you NOT file a claim?

Filing a claim raises your future premiums.

Do NOT file if:

• Damage is cosmetic only (e.g., a few dented shingles, no leaks)
• Repair cost is close to or below your deductible
• You’ve filed two or more claims in the past 5 years

When in doubt: Call us for a free inspection. We give honest advice – including if we think you should NOT file a claim.

Need help with your storm damage claim?

We’ve helped dozens of Calgary homeowners navigate hail and wind claims.

[ SCHEDULE FREE INSPECTION ] – We’ll assess your damage and walk you through next steps.

📞 587-429-5891 – Calls answered 7am–9pm

FAQ Blurb

Can I choose my own contractor for an insurance claim?
Yes, in Alberta you are not required to use your insurance company’s preferred contractor. Read more on our FAQ page.