Claiming Roof on Insurance: The Complete Guide from a Texas Roofer with 15+ Years Experience

I've been installing and repairing roofs across Texas for over fifteen years. I've completed more than two thousand roofing projects. I hold certifications from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. I've worked directly with hundreds of homeowners navigating insurance claims after major storms. This article exists because I've seen too many good people get confused, frustrated, or shortchanged during the claims process. My goal is to give you the knowledge I share with my own customers. This guide answers your biggest question: How do I successfully file a roof insurance claim and get my home properly repaired? I gathered this information from real customer projects, manufacturer installation specifications, Texas building codes, and direct work with insurance adjusters. My methodology is simple: explain the process clearly, show you what to expect, and give you practical steps to protect your investment. Let's get started.

Understanding Your Roof Insurance Policy: The Fine Print Matters

Your homeowner's insurance policy is a contract. Understanding it is your first line of defense. Most policies cover "sudden and accidental" damage from specific perils. These perils typically include wind, hail, and falling objects. They do not cover wear and tear or lack of maintenance. The two most common types of coverage are Actual Cash Value (ACV) and Replacement Cost Value (RCV). ACV pays you the current value of your roof, minus depreciation. This amount is often far less than the cost of a full replacement. RCV pays to replace your roof with materials of like kind and quality, up to your policy limits. You usually receive an initial payment for the ACV amount. You get the remaining funds, called recoverable depreciation, after the work is complete and the invoice is submitted. Always review your policy's declarations page. Know your deductible amount and your coverage limits. Contact your agent if anything is unclear before you need to file a claim.

What Damage is Typically Covered?

Insurance covers damage from specific events, not general aging. High winds can lift and tear shingles, exposing the roof deck. Hail creates impact marks that bruise or crack shingle granules. This damage compromises the roof's waterproofing. Falling tree limbs or debris from a neighbor's property can cause immediate, obvious damage. The weight of ice and snow can cause structural stress. Internal water damage from a roof leak is also often covered, but the source leak must be from a covered peril. It is crucial to document the direct cause of the damage. Take clear photos immediately after a storm. Time-stamped evidence links the damage to the specific weather event. This strengthens your claim significantly.

What Damage is Usually NOT Covered?

Insurance is not a maintenance warranty. Damage from lack of maintenance is excluded. This includes leaks from worn-out, old, or missing shingles. Mold or rot that develops slowly over time is not covered. Damage from pests or animals is typically excluded. Some policies have specific exclusions for certain wind speeds or hail sizes. Many coastal policies exclude wind damage entirely or have a separate, higher deductible. Always read the exclusions section of your policy. Regular roof inspections and maintenance are your responsibility. A well-maintained roof also has a stronger case when legitimate storm damage occurs.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Roof Insurance Claim

Following a clear process prevents mistakes and delays. Do not rush to call a roofer first. Your first call should be to your insurance company to start the claim. Have your policy number ready. Provide the date of the loss and a brief description of the damage. The insurance company will assign you a claim number and an adjuster. Your next step is to mitigate further damage. This means taking reasonable steps to prevent more problems. Place a tarp over any active leaks inside your attic. Move belongings away from water stains. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs; these costs may be reimbursable. Then, contact two or three reputable, licensed roofing contractors for a professional inspection. A good contractor can provide a detailed damage report with photos. This report can be invaluable during the adjuster's inspection.

Documenting the Damage: A Photo Checklist

Thorough documentation is your most powerful tool. Use your smartphone and take hundreds of photos. Start with wide shots of your property from all four sides. Capture the overall condition of the roof. Then, take close-up photos of specific damage. Get clear shots of granule loss in gutters and downspouts. Photograph dented vents, flashing, and gutters. Take pictures of any cracked, creased, or missing shingles. If safe, take photos from inside your attic. Look for water stains, daylight coming through the deck, or wet insulation. Document any personal property damage inside the home. Create a simple log with dates and descriptions for each photo. This organized evidence package presents a clear, undeniable case to the adjuster.

Working with the Insurance Adjuster

The insurance adjuster represents the insurance company. Their job is to assess the damage and determine a settlement amount based on your policy. Be present for the adjuster's inspection. Have your licensed roofing contractor present as well. This is a critical step. The contractor can point out damage the adjuster might miss. They can also discuss repair methods and local building code requirements. For example, in Texas, many municipalities require a specific number of nails per shingle. If the existing roof has fewer nails, code may require a full tear-off. Your contractor can explain this. Be polite and professional with the adjuster. Provide them with your photo documentation and any contractor reports. The goal is a collaborative assessment to ensure all damage is accounted for in the estimate, known as the scope of loss.

Navigating the Insurance Estimate and Supplement Process

After the inspection, you will receive the insurance company's estimate. This document details the line items they agree to pay for. Review it carefully with your chosen roofing contractor. Contractors use specialized software like Xactimate to create estimates that align with insurance pricing. Compare the two documents. Often, the insurance estimate may miss items like full decking replacement, proper ventilation, or specific flashing details. It may also use lower-quality material pricing. This is normal. The next step is to request a supplement. Your contractor will submit a detailed report with photos back to the adjuster, highlighting the missing items. This is a standard part of the process. A professional roofer knows how to communicate these needs effectively. Do not begin work until the supplement is approved and you have a final, agreed-upon scope and price in writing.

Understanding Depreciation and Deductibles

Your out-of-pocket costs are determined by your deductible and any non-recoverable depreciation. Your deductible is the amount you pay before insurance coverage kicks in. This is a fixed amount from your policy. Depreciation is the loss in value due to age and wear. On an RCV policy, depreciation is often recoverable. The insurance company holds back the depreciation amount until the work is complete. You must pay your deductible to the roofing contractor. It is illegal for a contractor to waive your deductible or absorb the cost. This is considered insurance fraud in Texas. Any contractor offering to "cover" your deductible is likely cutting corners elsewhere. A legitimate project accounts for the full cost, including your deductible payment.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor for an Insurance Job

Your choice of contractor makes or breaks the entire experience. After a major storm, "storm chasers" flock to affected areas. These are often out-of-town crews with no local reputation or licensing. Always choose a local, established roofing company. Verify they are licensed and insured in your state. In Texas, check for a Texas Roofing Contractor License. Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation. Look for manufacturer certifications, like GAF Master Elite or CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster. These certifications require proper training, insurance, and a proven track record. Get everything in writing. The contract should detail the exact materials (brand, style, color), the work scope, the payment schedule, and the warranty. A reputable contractor will handle communication with your insurance company and manage the supplement process for you.

Red Flags and Warning Signs

Be wary of door-to-door solicitors with out-of-state license plates. Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments or only accept cash. Do not sign a contract with a blank price or scope. Never sign an "assignment of benefits" form without fully understanding it. This form can sign over your insurance benefits directly to the contractor, removing your control. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics or limited-time offers. A trustworthy roofer will give you time to decide. They will provide local references and a physical business address. Check online reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau. Your roof is a major investment. Taking time to vet your contractor protects that investment.

Real Project Case Studies: Lessons from the Field

Case Study 1: Hail Damage in Kingwood

A homeowner in Kingwood had significant hail damage after a spring storm. The insurance adjuster's initial estimate was for a repair of only the most damaged slopes. Our inspection showed widespread bruising across the entire roof. The granules were knocked loose, which would lead to accelerated aging. We documented every slope with close-up photos. We submitted a supplement request for a full roof replacement. The supplement included manufacturer documentation on hail impact testing. The insurance company approved the full replacement. The key was detailed documentation and knowledge of how hail functionally damages a roof system.

Case Study 2: Wind Damage and Code Upgrades

An older home in The Woodlands lost shingles in high winds. The insurance estimate was to replace the missing shingles. During our tear-off, we discovered the roof deck was attached with older, shorter nails. Current Texas building code and the manufacturer's installation instructions required longer nails for wind resistance. This was a code upgrade necessary for a proper installation. We halted work, photographed the deck, and cited the specific code section. We submitted a supplement for the additional labor and materials to re-nail the entire deck. The supplement was approved because it was required for the roof to meet current standards. This added significant strength and longevity to the new roof.

Frequently Asked Questions from Homeowners

Will filing a claim increase my insurance rates?

Filing a claim may affect your rates, but it depends on your policy, your history, and the cause of damage. A claim for a major, widespread weather event that affects your entire neighborhood may have less impact than an isolated incident. You pay for insurance to use it when you have covered damage. The risk of a rate increase should not stop you from filing a legitimate claim for significant storm damage. Discuss this concern openly with your insurance agent.

How long do I have to file a claim after a storm?

Most policies require you to file a claim within one year of the date of loss. However, you should file as soon as possible. Delay can make it harder to prove the damage was caused by that specific storm. It also allows for further deterioration and potential interior damage. Inspect your roof after any major weather event and file promptly if you see issues.

Can I keep the leftover money from the insurance check?

No, you cannot profit from an insurance claim. The insurance payment is intended to indemnify you, or make you whole, by covering the cost of repairs. If the actual cost of the repair is less than the insurance estimate, the difference typically must be returned to the insurance company. Your contractor should provide an invoice that matches the final approved scope and cost.

What if my insurance claim is denied?

First, request a detailed explanation in writing. Review the denial against your policy language. If you believe it was wrongfully denied, you can appeal the decision. Provide additional documentation from your roofing contractor. You can also request a re-inspection with a different adjuster. As a last resort, you can file a complaint with your state's department of insurance. In Texas, that is the Texas Department of Insurance.

Should I get multiple estimates from roofers?

Yes, you should get at least two or three inspections from reputable contractors. However, focus less on the total price and more on the scope of work and materials proposed. The insurance company determines the price based on their software. Different contractors may identify different levels of damage or recommend different solutions. Choose the contractor based on their expertise, communication, and the completeness of their proposed solution, not just the lowest price.

Industry Statistics and Data

According to the Insurance Information Institute, wind and hail losses account for the largest share of homeowner insurance claims. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that Texas leads the nation in hail claims. A study by the National Association of Home Builders found a properly installed roof should last 20-30 years, but storm damage is a leading cause of premature failure. The Texas Department of Insurance handles thousands of roofing-related complaints annually, many related to poor workmanship or disputes with out-of-state contractors after storms. These statistics highlight why being informed is so crucial for Texas homeowners.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Successful Roof Claim

Navigating a roof insurance claim can feel overwhelming. You are dealing with significant damage to your home, complex paperwork, and large financial decisions. My goal was to demystify the process from start to finish. Remember the key steps: understand your policy, document everything thoroughly, involve a reputable local contractor early, and communicate clearly with your adjuster. Your roof is your home's first line of defense. A successful insurance claim restores that protection and preserves your property's value. Do not settle for a quick patch job or the lowest bidder. Invest time in choosing a partner who will ensure the job is done right, according to code and manufacturer specifications. If you are in the Kingwood area or greater Texas region and have questions after a storm, reach out to a licensed, certified professional for a thorough inspection. Protect your home with knowledge and the right team.