When disaster strikes, the last thing you want is to feel lost in the insurance claims process. Whether it’s hail, high winds, or heavy storms, home damage can be overwhelming—but knowing what to do next can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take after a storm, from assessing damage and filing a claim to working with an adjuster and getting your home repaired. By following these proactive steps—just like CFM policyholders Penny and Parker did—you can turn a stressful situation into a smooth recovery. Let’s dive in.

When Plans Don’t Go as Expected

As a homeowner, you do everything you can to take care of your home—keeping up with maintenance, following seasonal checklists, and making sure your insurance policy is up to date. But sometimes, despite all the preparation, Mother Nature has other plans.

If you’ve lived through a Missouri storm season, you know how quickly the weather can turn. One minute, it’s calm—the next, you’re dealing with hail the size of golf balls, high winds, and unexpected damage.

Waking up to dented siding, missing shingles, or debris scattered across your yard can feel overwhelming. But when you’re prepared and have the right insurance coverage, navigating the aftermath doesn’t have to be stressful. Knowing what to do next—and having a solid plan in place—can make all the difference in getting your home back to normal.

A Proactive Approach Pays Off

A well-cared-for home is a well-protected home. Regular maintenance isn’t just about keeping things looking nice—it strengthens your home against unexpected disasters and ensures you’re not caught off guard when storms roll in. A few simple, proactive steps today can make all the difference in how smoothly you recover tomorrow.

Some key maintenance habits that set homeowners up for success include:

• Cleaning gutters every spring and fall to prevent water damage
• Scheduling annual HVAC checkups for efficiency and longevity
• Reviewing homeowners insurance regularly to ensure the right coverage

While no amount of preparation can stop a storm, being ready for the aftermath can help you recover with confidence.

Step 1: Immediate Actions After the Storm

Once the skies clear, it’s time to assess the damage and take action.

1. Survey and Document the Damage – Walk around your property and take clear photos of your roof, siding, and yard. Hail, wind, and debris can cause hidden damage, so capturing everything before making any repairs is crucial for your insurance claim.
2. Call Your Insurance Agent – Your insurance agent is your best resource after a storm. They’ll help you understand your coverage, guide you through the claims process, and ensure you get the assistance you need. Having this support can provide peace of mind—you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Taking these steps right away can streamline the claims process and help get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. Preparation today leads to peace of mind tomorrow.

Step 2: Filing the Claim

Once the damage is assessed, the next step is filing your insurance claim. The easier this process is, the faster repairs can begin.

1. Convenient Filing Options – Most insurance providers, including CFM Insurance, offer multiple ways to file a claim, whether online, through a mobile app, or over the phone. Submitting a claim quickly ensures the process gets moving without unnecessary delays.
2. Preparation Pays Off – Having up-to-date records of your home can make filing a claim much smoother. Recent photos of your property, a list of home improvements, and receipts for major updates help provide the necessary details. In Penny and Parker’s case, their proactive approach meant they could file their claim with confidence, avoiding back-and-forth delays.

The more information you have readily available, the more seamless the claims process will be—saving you time, stress, and uncertainty.

Step 3: The Adjuster’s Visit

After filing a claim, an insurance adjuster will visit your home to assess the damage and determine repair costs. Here’s what to expect:

1. Quick Scheduling for Faster Repairs – Most insurance companies strive to send an adjuster as soon as possible. The sooner the inspection happens, the sooner repairs can begin. In Penny and Parker’s case, their adjuster arrived within 48 hours, keeping the process moving smoothly.
2. A Thorough and Transparent Inspection – During the visit, the adjuster will carefully examine your roof, siding, and other damaged areas. They’ll explain what they are looking for, take their own photos, and document everything needed for the claim.
3. Clear Communication Matters – A good adjuster will answer any questions you have and provide an estimate for repairs promptly. Understanding the process and what’s covered can make a big difference in how confident you feel moving forward. Penny and Parker appreciated having a clear plan and timeline, which made them feel more at ease.

Being prepared for the adjuster’s visit—by having your own photos and notes ready—can help ensure a smooth and accurate assessment of the damage.

Step 4: Stress-Free Repairs

Once your claim is approved, the focus shifts to restoring your home efficiently and with minimal hassle. Having the right support in place can make the difference between a frustrating experience and a smooth recovery.

1. A Trusted Network of Contractors – Instead of spending time searching for reliable contractors, most insurance companies provide a list of vetted professionals who specialize in storm damage repairs. These contractors are familiar with insurance claims, ensuring the work is done correctly, efficiently, and in compliance with policy guidelines.
2. Seamless, Timely Repairs – The restoration process begins as soon as possible to minimize disruption. Regular updates from your contractor and insurance provider keep you informed every step of the way. In many cases, homes are not only repaired to their pre-storm condition but may even appear updated with improved materials or more modern-looking finishes.

A well-managed claims and repair process gives homeowners peace of mind, allowing them to move forward with confidence, knowing their home is in good hands.

Step 5: Financial Peace of Mind

Handling unexpected home repairs can be stressful, but proper preparation and understanding your insurance coverage can significantly ease financial concerns when disaster strikes.

1. Know Your Coverage Before You Need It – Reviewing your homeowners insurance policy before a storm or disaster occurs ensures there are no surprises when it comes time to file a claim. Understanding your deductible, coverage limits, and exclusions can help you make informed financial decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.
2. Quick and Hassle-Free Payouts – Once a claim is approved, most insurance companies work quickly to issue payments, allowing homeowners to pay contractors without delay. Having the right coverage in place means less out-of-pocket expenses and a smoother recovery process.

Taking the time to stay informed and prepared can make all the difference when it comes to financial peace of mind. The more you know about your policy, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to use it.

Lessons Learned: Why Preparation Matters

While Penny and Parker couldn’t control the storm, their proactive approach made all the difference. Their experience highlights some important lessons for every homeowner:

1. Keep Your Policy Updated: Regularly reviewing and updating your insurance policy ensures you’re fully protected when the unexpected happens.
2. Document Your Home’s Condition Regularly: Taking the time to document your home’s condition and any improvements can save you valuable time and reduce stress during the claims process.

3. Choose a Customer-Focused Insurance Company: Selecting an insurance provider with a responsive, easy-to-navigate claims process and local adjusters who understand the area and industry can make a world of difference when disaster strikes.

Is Your Home Storm-Ready?

Severe weather can strike when you least expect it. The best way to protect your home—and avoid unnecessary stress—is by making sure your insurance policy is up to date before a storm hits.

Take a few minutes to review your policy with your local CFM Agent to ensure you understand your coverage, deductible, and the claims process. When you know what’s covered and how to navigate a claim, you can face whatever comes your way with confidence.

Reach out to your local CFM Agent today and take the guesswork out of storm season—so if the unexpected happens, you’ll be ready.