Filing a storm damage insurance claim in Arkansas follows the same general process as any state, but there are Arkansas-specific rules, deadlines, and resources that every homeowner should know before picking up the phone. This guide walks through the process from start to finish with Arkansas-specific details at every step.
Step 1: Document Before You File
Before calling your insurance company, get your documentation in order. Walk the exterior of your property and photograph any visible damage to gutters, siding, windows, outdoor equipment, and vehicles.
Schedule a professional roof inspection. A Roof Report Card from a Haag Certified inspector provides the documented evidence your insurance company needs: dated photos of specific damage, professional categorization of storm-related versus pre-existing conditions, and an assessment that meets insurance industry standards.
Why inspect before filing? When you call your insurance company to report damage, they open a claim. If the adjuster finds no damage or damage below your deductible, that claim stays on your record — even without a payout. Get your documentation first.
Step 2: Know Your Arkansas Filing Deadline
Arkansas law does not impose a specific statutory deadline for filing property damage claims. However, your individual insurance policy contains its own filing window — typically one year from the date of loss.
Check your declarations page for your specific deadline. Do not assume you have unlimited time. The date of loss is when the storm occurred, not when you discovered the damage. If you’re approaching your deadline, file immediately and supplement with additional documentation later.
Step 3: File the Claim
Call your insurance company’s main claims line (not your agent’s personal number). Have ready your policy number, the date of the storm, a description of the damage, and your contact information.
Ask for the claim number, the assigned adjuster’s name and contact information, and the expected timeline for the adjuster’s visit. Write all of this down — you’ll need it throughout the process.
Step 4: The Adjuster’s Visit
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect your property. This is the most important moment in the claims process — the adjuster’s findings determine your payout.
Having a Haag Certified inspector present during the adjuster’s visit ensures every area of concern is examined. Adjusters handle high volumes of inspections, especially after major storms. They may spend limited time on each property. Your inspector can point out areas of concern in real time.
Have copies of your Roof Report Card ready to share with the adjuster. This demonstrates professionalism and ensures the adjuster has access to thorough documentation.
Step 5: Review and Respond
After inspection, the adjuster prepares an estimate using Xactimate or similar software. Review this estimate carefully against your Roof Report Card. If damage was documented in your inspection but not included in the adjuster’s scope, you can request a supplement — a re-review of specific areas.
For RCV policies, you’ll receive the ACV amount upfront and the depreciation recovery after repairs are completed and documented. For ACV policies, you receive the single payment minus your deductible.
Arkansas-Specific Protections and Cautions
Contractor Registration: Since January 2022, residential roofing contractors must hold a Residential Roofer Registration through the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board for projects over $2,000 (including labor and materials). Always verify a contractor’s registration status before signing any agreement.
Assignment of Benefits (AOB): Be cautious with AOB documents. An AOB transfers your insurance claim rights to a contractor, giving them control over the claim process and payout. While AOBs are legal in Arkansas, they can limit your control. SDAT does not require an AOB.
Anti-Solicitation: Be wary of contractors who appear uninvited at your door immediately after a storm, especially those who pressure you to sign contracts on the spot or offer to cover your deductible. These are red flags for storm chasers.
If Your Claim Is Denied
A denial is not necessarily the end. You can request a re-inspection with additional documentation, file an appeal through your insurance company’s internal process, or escalate to the Arkansas Insurance Department.
Arkansas Insurance Department: Main phone (501) 371-2600, Consumer Services Division (501) 371-2620, toll-free 1-800-852-5494, online at insurance.arkansas.gov. The Department investigates complaints and can intervene when insurers act in bad faith.