Navigating the Aftermath: How to Choose a Trusted Contractor and Handle Insurance Claims

A severe Missouri storm is stressful enough without the headache of fixing your home. Whether it was a spring hail event in Mid-Missouri or high winds that tore through your neighborhood, the decisions you make in the 48 hours following a storm can save you thousands of dollars—and a lot of frustration.

At Dreste Contracting LLC, we believe an informed homeowner is a protected homeowner. Here is our guide to finding a contractor you can trust and making sure your insurance company treats you fairly.

Phase 1: Spotting a Trusted Contractor

After a major storm, "storm chasers" often flood neighborhoods. These are out-of-state companies that follow weather maps to find work. While some are legitimate, many disappear once the check clears, leaving you with no recourse if your roof leaks a year later.

How to vet your contractor:

• Check for a Local Physical Address: Avoid contractors working out of a hotel room or a truck with out-of-state plates. A local business like Dreste Contracting has deep roots in the community and a reputation to uphold.  

  
  

• Verify Insurance and Licensing: In Missouri, licensing often happens at the local level (City or County). Ask for proof of General Liability and Workers’ Compensation. If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor isn't insured, you could be held liable.  

  
  

• Look for Industry Credentials: Trusted contractors often hold certifications from major manufacturers (like GAF or CertainTeed). These certifications aren't just for show—they allow the contractor to offer extended warranties that uncertified installers can't provide.  

  
  

• Ask About the Workmanship Warranty: A manufacturer’s warranty covers the materials (the shingles), but a workmanship warranty covers the installation. Ensure your contractor stands behind their labor for at least 5–10 years.  

  
  

Phase 2: Navigating the Insurance Maze

The insurance process can feel like a full-time job. To ensure your claim is approved and your home is fully restored, follow these steps:

1. Document Everything Immediately

Before you touch anything, take photos and videos.

• Exterior: Capture missing shingles, dented gutters, and cracked siding.  

  
  

• Interior: If you have water spots on your ceiling, photograph them immediately.

• The Date: Keep a record of the exact date and time the storm hit; insurance adjusters will cross-reference this with local meteorological data.  

  
  

2. The "Adjuster Meeting" Secret

When your insurance company sends an adjuster to your home, you want your contractor there, too.

Insurance adjusters are human—they can miss things. Having a professional from Dreste Contracting on-site during the inspection ensures that every hail bruise and wind-lifted shingle is pointed out. We speak the same language as the adjusters, which often leads to a more accurate (and fairer) claim summary.  

3. Beware of the "Lowball" Estimate

If your insurance company provides an estimate that seems too low to cover the actual cost of repairs, don't panic. You have the right to provide a "supplement." This is where your contractor provides a detailed breakdown of the real-world costs of materials and labor in the Missouri market to bridge the gap.

4. Avoid "Insurance Fraud" Scams

If a contractor offers to "cover your deductible" or "bill the insurance for more than the work cost," walk away. In many states, including Missouri, this can be considered insurance fraud. A reputable contractor will work within the insurance company’s approved scope while ensuring the job is done to code.

The Dreste Difference

At Dreste Contracting LLC, we don't just hammer nails—we advocate for our clients. From providing a detailed, honest estimate to meeting your insurance adjuster on the roof, we are with you every step of the way.

Has your home been affected by recent Missouri weather? Don't settle for "good enough." Call Dreste Contracting LLC today for a professional inspection and a partner you can trust.