Insurance Company Roof Replacement: Your Complete Guide from a Texas Roofing Contractor

I have been installing and replacing roofs across Texas for over 15 years. My team at Kingwood Roofing has completed more than 2,500 roofing projects. We hold certifications from major manufacturers like GAF and CertainTeed. We are also certified in storm damage assessment. This article exists because I have seen too many homeowners struggle with insurance claims. They feel confused and overwhelmed by the process. My goal is to give you the knowledge I share with my own customers. I want you to feel confident when dealing with your insurance company. This information comes from hundreds of actual insurance claim projects. I have worked directly with adjusters from State Farm, Allstate, and Farmers. I have studied manufacturer specifications and local building codes. My recommendations are based on what actually works in the field. This is not theory. This is practical advice from the roof up.

Understanding Your Roof Insurance Policy

Most homeowners never read their insurance policy until they need it. This is a big mistake. Your policy is a legal contract. It defines exactly what is covered and what is not. There are two main types of coverage for roofs. The first is Actual Cash Value (ACV). The second is Replacement Cost Value (RCV). An ACV policy pays you the current value of your old roof. They subtract for age and wear. This often does not cover the full cost of a new roof. An RCV policy pays to replace your roof with a new one of similar quality. You usually get an initial payment for the depreciated value. After the work is complete, you get a second check for the recoverable depreciation. You must understand which type you have. Look at your declarations page. It should state your coverage type clearly.

What Storm Damage Actually Looks Like

Insurance companies cover damage from specific perils. These are events like hail, wind, and fallen trees. Normal wear and tear is not covered. Neither is damage from lack of maintenance. Hail damage shows as circular bruises on shingles. The granules will be knocked off. You will see black spots where the asphalt is exposed. Wind damage often lifts shingles. It can tear them completely off. Look for creases or tears in the shingle tabs. Missing shingles are obvious signs. Adjusters look for a pattern of damage. A few random hits may not be enough. They need to see damage across multiple slopes of the roof. This indicates a storm event rather than isolated damage.

Key Policy Terms You Must Know

• Deductible: This is the amount you pay out of pocket. It is subtracted from the claim payment. A 1% deductible on a $300,000 home is $3,000.
• Depreciation: The loss in value due to age. A 15-year-old roof has significant depreciation.
• Code Upgrades: If local building codes have changed, your policy may pay to meet new standards. This is often called Ordinance or Law coverage.
• Exclusions: Read these carefully. Some policies exclude certain types of wind or cosmetic hail damage.

The Step-by-Step Insurance Claim Process

Filing a claim can feel intimidating. Following a clear process reduces stress. Do not call your insurance company first if you suspect damage. First, contact a reputable, local roofing contractor for a free inspection. A good roofer can tell you if you have legitimate damage. They can document it with photos and measurements. If damage exists, then you file the claim. Your contractor can help you with the phone call. They know what information the insurance company needs. After you file, the insurance company will assign an adjuster. The adjuster will contact you to schedule an inspection. It is crucial that your roofing contractor is present for this inspection. The contractor can point out damage the adjuster might miss. They can explain why replacement is necessary. This teamwork often leads to a better outcome for you.

Documenting Damage Like a Pro

Thorough documentation wins claims. Start by taking clear photos from the ground. Get shots of all sides of your house. Photograph any debris in the yard, like granules or shingle pieces. If it is safe, take photos from a ladder at the roof edge. Do not walk on a damaged roof. Your roofing contractor will provide a detailed report. This should include close-up photos of damaged shingles. It should show measurements of hail hits per square. It should note any damaged vents, flashing, or gutters. Keep a log of all communications. Write down the name of every person you speak with. Note the date, time, and what was discussed. This creates a paper trail if there are disputes later.

Working with the Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster works for the insurance company. Their job is to assess the damage and write an estimate. Be polite and professional. Have your documentation ready. Walk the perimeter of the house with them. Let your contractor do most of the technical talking. The adjuster will write an estimate using software like Xactimate. This software has regional pricing for labor and materials. The initial estimate is often too low. It may miss necessary items like synthetic underlayment or proper ice and water shield. It might underestimate the waste factor for a complex roof. Your contractor will review the adjuster's estimate line by line. They will prepare a detailed supplement request. This is a normal part of the process. Do not be alarmed if the first check seems small.

Choosing Materials for Your Replacement Roof

The insurance company owes to replace your roof with materials of "like kind and quality." This does not mean you are stuck with the cheapest option. If you had architectural shingles, they owe for architectural shingles. You can often upgrade by paying the difference. This is a great opportunity to improve your home. Consider impact-resistant shingles rated for hail. Many insurance companies offer a premium discount for these. GAF Timberline HDZ and CertainTeed Landmark are popular choices. They come with strong warranties. Also think about your roof's ventilation. A proper ventilation system extends shingle life. It can also reduce energy costs. The insurance estimate should include new ridge vents and intake vents.

Asphalt Shingle Comparisons

• 3-Tab Shingles: The most basic and economical option. They have a flat, uniform look. They generally have the shortest lifespan and warranty.
• Architectural/Dimensional Shingles: These are thicker. They have a random, shadowed appearance that mimics wood shake. They offer better wind resistance and a longer warranty, typically 30-50 years.
• Luxury/Designer Shingles: These are the premium tier. They have the deepest dimensionality and often replicate slate or cedar. They come with lifetime limited warranties.

Understanding Roofing Warranties

There are two main warranties on a new roof. The first is the manufacturer's warranty on the shingles. The second is the contractor's warranty on the workmanship. A manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the shingle material. It does not cover improper installation. That is why the contractor's warranty is critical. A reputable roofer will offer a strong workmanship warranty, often 5-10 years or more. Some manufacturers offer an enhanced warranty if the installer is certified. For example, GAF offers the Golden Pledge warranty through certified Master Elite contractors. This provides coverage for both materials and labor. Always get your warranties in writing. Understand what voids them, like power washing the roof or installing satellite dishes without proper flashing.

The Roof Replacement Process: What to Expect

A full roof replacement typically takes 1-3 days. The crew will arrive early in the morning. They will lay tarps around your house to protect landscaping. They will use a magnetic roller to pick up nails as they go. The old shingles are torn off and loaded into a dump trailer. The roof deck is then exposed and inspected. Any rotten wood is replaced. This is called "decking repair" and is a separate line item on the insurance estimate. Next, they install new underlayment. This is a water-resistant barrier over the wood deck. In critical areas like valleys and eaves, they install ice and water shield. This is a sticky, self-sealing membrane. Then, new flashing is installed around chimneys, vents, and walls. Finally, the new shingles are installed from the bottom up. Ridge vents are installed at the peak. The job ends with a thorough cleanup.

Homeowner Preparation Checklist

• Move vehicles out of the driveway.
• Remove fragile items from walls and shelves inside. The hammering can cause vibrations.
• Cover items in your attic with sheets to catch dust.
• Keep children and pets indoors and away from the work area.
• Clearly mark any underground sprinkler lines or septic tanks.
• Provide access to an outdoor water spigot and electrical outlet.

Final Inspection and Payment

When the job is done, the contractor will walk you through a final inspection. They will show you the completed work. They will explain the key features of your new roof. They should provide you with before-and-after photos. You will also receive all warranty paperwork. For RCV policies, you need to submit this completion documentation to your insurance company. This triggers the release of your recoverable depreciation check. The contractor typically gets the final payment once this check is received. Make sure you are completely satisfied before making the final payment. A good contractor will not pressure you. They will address any minor concerns immediately.

Common Insurance Claim Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many problems arise from poor communication. Homeowners sometimes hire the first contractor who knocks on their door after a storm. These "storm chasers" may offer to pay your deductible. This is insurance fraud and is illegal in Texas and many states. They often do subpar work and then leave town. You are left with a bad roof and no warranty. Always hire a local, established contractor. Check their license and insurance. Get multiple estimates. Another pitfall is not understanding your own policy. You might think you have full replacement cost when you actually have ACV. Review your policy annually with your agent. Finally, do not cash the insurance check and spend it on something else. The check is made out to you and your mortgage company. You must endorse it over to your contractor to pay for the work. The mortgage company has an interest in protecting their collateral—your home.

When a Claim Gets Denied

Claim denials happen. The most common reason is "wear and tear." The adjuster may say the damage is too old or from lack of maintenance. If you disagree, you have the right to appeal. Request a re-inspection with a different adjuster. Have your contractor submit additional evidence. You can also hire a public adjuster. A public adjuster works for you, not the insurance company. They charge a percentage of the final settlement, typically 10-20%. They can be very effective for complex or high-value claims. 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. They can mediate disputes between policyholders and companies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will filing a roof claim raise my insurance rates?

It might, but not always. A claim due to a major storm event affecting many homes may not raise your individual rate as much. However, filing multiple claims in a short period can label you as high-risk. It is best to discuss the potential impact with your insurance agent before filing a small claim.

Can I keep the leftover money from the insurance check?

If you have an RCV policy and the contractor completes the work for less than the insurance estimate, the leftover recoverable depreciation belongs to you. However, the initial ACV payment is intended to make you whole. Using it for anything other than repairing your roof could be considered fraud if the work is not done.

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, it is best to act quickly. Damage can worsen over time, and evidence can become less clear. Have your roof inspected as soon as possible after a suspected storm.

What if my mortgage company is on the insurance check?

This is standard procedure. The mortgage company has a financial interest in your property. You will need to endorse the check and send it to your mortgage lender's loss draft department. They will typically endorse it and release the funds to you in installments as the work progresses, holding back a final amount until completion.

Does the insurance company choose my contractor?

No. You have the right to choose your own licensed contractor. The insurance company may provide a list of "preferred" vendors, but you are not obligated to use them. Your choice of contractor is one of the most important decisions in this process.

What is "code upgrade" coverage and do I have it?

Building codes change over time. If your roof was built to an old code, replacing it today may require additional work to meet new codes, like more nails per shingle or different underlayment. Ordinance or Law coverage pays for these required upgrades. Check your policy declarations page to see if you have this coverage.

Should I get multiple estimates before filing a claim?

Yes, but only from reputable, local contractors. Get at least two or three detailed written estimates. This gives you a realistic idea of the repair cost. It also helps you choose a contractor you trust. Do not file a claim based on a door-knocker's high-pressure sales pitch alone.

Real Project Case Study: Kingwood Home After a Hail Storm

Last spring, a severe hail storm hit a neighborhood in Kingwood. The homeowners, the Smiths, noticed granules in their gutters. They called us for an inspection. We found significant hail damage on all slopes of their 25-year-old roof. The shingles were at the end of their life anyway. We helped them file a claim with their insurance company. The adjuster met us at the property. We walked the roof together. The initial estimate was for a basic 3-tab shingle replacement. The Smiths originally had architectural shingles. We submitted a supplement showing the manufacturer's spec sheets proving the original quality. The insurance company approved the upgrade. The estimate also missed the cost of replacing several sheets of rotted decking. We provided photos and measurements. The supplement was approved. The Smiths chose to upgrade further to impact-resistant shingles. They paid the difference out of pocket to get a better product and a potential insurance discount. The project was completed in two days. The Smiths received their full recoverable depreciation. Their new roof has a 50-year warranty and better storm resistance. This is a typical successful outcome when all parties work together with good documentation.

Industry Statistics and Data

Understanding the broader context can be helpful. According to the Insurance Information Institute, wind and hail losses account for the largest share of homeowners insurance claims. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends a professional roof inspection at least every two years. Data from Haag Engineering, a leading forensic engineering firm, shows that proper installation is the single biggest factor in roof longevity, more important than the shingle brand itself. In Texas, the Texas Insurance Code provides specific protections for policyholders, including timelines for claim responses. Knowing these facts empowers you as a homeowner.

Conclusion: Your Path Forward

Navigating an insurance company roof replacement is a major project. It does not have to be a nightmare. Start by knowing your policy. Document everything. Choose a local, reputable contractor to be your guide. Be present for the adjuster's inspection. Understand that supplements are normal. Focus on quality materials and installation, not just the lowest price. Your roof is your home's first line of defense. A successful claim process results in a secure, long-lasting roof that protects your family and your investment for decades. If you are in the Kingwood area and have questions about potential storm damage, do not hesitate to reach out for a professional, no-obligation inspection. We are here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions with confidence.