Roofclaim.com Lawsuit: A 25-Year Roofer's Guide to Insurance Claims & Storm Damage

I have installed and repaired roofs for over twenty-five years. I have completed more than three thousand roofing projects. I hold certifications from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. I am a licensed contractor in Texas. This experience gives me real knowledge about roofing. I understand insurance claims and storm damage. I want to share this knowledge with you today.

This article exists to solve a real problem. Many homeowners face confusing insurance claims after storms. They hear about companies like Roofclaim.com and lawsuits. They do not know who to trust. They need clear, honest information. This guide answers your urgent questions. It helps you protect your home and your money. It is based on real work, not just internet research.

I gathered this information from my own customer projects. I studied industry data from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). I reviewed manufacturer specifications for proper installation. I follow the International Residential Code (IRC) for roofing. My recommendations come from seeing what works and what fails. I will be completely transparent about this process. My goal is to give you the power to make smart decisions.

Understanding the Roofclaim.com Lawsuit and Industry Context

The roofing industry has changed in recent years. Storm chasers and third-party marketers are common. Companies like Roofclaim.com act as intermediaries. They connect homeowners with contractors. This model can create problems. Several lawsuits have been filed against Roofclaim.com. These lawsuits often involve allegations of improper practices.

Common Allegations in Roofing Service Lawsuits

Homeowners have reported several issues. Some say they were pressured into signing contracts. Others claim the work quality was poor. There are complaints about insurance assignment of benefits (AOB). An AOB gives the contractor direct rights to your insurance payment. This can be risky if you do not trust the company. Understanding these risks protects you.

Lawsuits often focus on misrepresentation. A company might promise a "free" roof. Nothing is truly free when insurance is involved. They might exaggerate storm damage to file a claim. This is insurance fraud. It can get you, the homeowner, into serious trouble. Always be wary of anyone who wants to find damage you cannot see. A reputable roofer will explain damage clearly.

The Role of Public Adjusters and Storm Chasers

After a major storm, many companies arrive in an area. These are often called "storm chasers." They may work with public adjusters. A public adjuster works for you, not the insurance company. They help maximize your claim. But some work with contractors for a referral fee. This creates a conflict of interest. The goal becomes the payout, not the proper repair.

My advice is to be cautious. Do not sign anything with a door-to-door salesman. Take their information if you want. Then do your own research. Check their business license. Look for local addresses and long-term presence. A good roofer wants to be there for you in five years. A storm chaser will be gone in five weeks.

The Homeowner's Guide to a Legitimate Insurance Claim

Filing an insurance claim for roof damage is stressful. Doing it correctly is crucial. A proper claim gets your home repaired. A bad process can lead to denial, underpayment, or policy cancellation. Follow these steps based on my decades of experience.

Step 1: Initial Damage Assessment and Documentation

After a storm, safety comes first. Do not go on your roof if it is wet or steep. You can inspect from the ground with binoculars. Look for missing shingles, dented vents, or damaged gutters. Inside your home, check for water stains on ceilings. Take clear photographs and videos of everything. Document the date and time. This visual evidence is vital for your claim.

Next, call a trusted, local roofing contractor for a professional inspection. A good roofer will provide a detailed report. They should explain the cause of damage. Hail damage looks different from wind damage. They should mark damaged areas with chalk. Ask them to show you the damage directly. Do not rely on a satellite image or a report from someone who never climbed your roof.

Step 2: Contacting Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance agent to start the claim. Provide your policy number and the date of loss. Describe the damage briefly. They will assign a company adjuster to inspect your property. The adjuster works for the insurance company. Their job is to assess the damage per your policy terms. Be present for this inspection. Have your roofer there too. This allows for a direct conversation about the scope of repairs.

Your roofer can point out damage the adjuster might miss. They can discuss current material costs and labor rates. This collaboration often leads to a more accurate and fair estimate. Do not let the adjuster tell you they do not need your contractor present. A professional roofer is your advocate and technical expert.

Step 3: Reviewing the Insurance Estimate and Scope

The insurance company will send you an estimate. This is often called a "scope of loss" or "claim summary." It lists the line items they will pay for. Review this document carefully with your roofer. Compare it to your contractor's detailed estimate. Look for missing items or underestimated quantities.

Common discrepancies include insufficient waste removal, missing underlayment, or incorrect shingle count. Roofing work must follow building codes. The International Residential Code (IRC) requires specific practices. If the insurance estimate does not cover code-compliant work, you must request a supplement. Your roofer should help you prepare this documentation.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor: Red Flags and Green Lights

Your choice of contractor determines everything. A good contractor ensures quality, handles supplements, and honors warranties. A bad one can leave you with leaks, denied warranties, and financial loss. Use this list from my project experience.

Major Red Flags to Avoid

• Demands an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) upfront. Never sign this before work begins. It gives away your rights.
• Offers to waive your deductible. This is illegal in most states, including Texas. It often signals insurance fraud.
• Has no local physical address or business license. Check with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
• Uses high-pressure sales tactics. A "today-only" discount for an insurance job is a scam.
• Cannot provide local references or project photos. Ask for addresses you can drive by and see.
• Only accepts payment from the insurance check. You should always pay your deductible directly to the contractor.

Positive Signs of a Reputable Roofer

• Holds manufacturer certifications. Look for GAF Master Elite or CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster. These require proper insurance, training, and a good reputation.
• Provides a detailed, written contract. It should include start/end dates, payment schedule, materials used (brand, color, style), and warranty information.
• Carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation. Ask for certificates of insurance and verify them.
• Is established in the community. They have a local office, phone number, and long-term presence.
• Communicates clearly and answers all your questions. They explain the process without confusing jargon.

Real Project Case Studies: Lessons from the Field

Let me share two real examples from my work. Names are changed for privacy. These stories show the good and bad paths.

Case Study 1: The Successful, Stress-Free Claim

The Johnson family had hail damage in Kingwood. They called me after a storm. I inspected and found classic hail hits on their asphalt shingles. I documented it with photos. I advised them to call their insurance. I met their adjuster on-site. We walked the roof together. The adjuster agreed with my assessment. The initial estimate was fair but low on some items.

I prepared a detailed supplement for code-required drip edge and proper ventilation. The insurance company approved it. We signed a clear contract. The job was completed in three days. The Johnsons paid their deductible directly to me. They received a manufacturer's warranty and my workmanship warranty. The process was transparent. They were happy. Their home was protected.

Case Study 2: The Costly Third-Party Mistake

The Garcia family signed with a storm-chasing company. The salesman promised a "free" roof upgrade. He had them sign an AOB. The work began quickly. The crew used sub-grade materials not listed in the contract. They did not install proper underlayment. They damaged the siding and never repaired it. The insurance paid the company directly.

Six months later, the Garcias had leaks. The company was unreachable. They called me. I found multiple installation failures. The shingle warranty was void due to improper installation. Repairing their roof correctly cost them thousands out-of-pocket. This is a painful but common story. It highlights why your choice of contractor is the most important decision.

Roofing Materials and Warranties: What Your Claim Should Cover

Your insurance claim should restore your roof to a like-kind and quality condition. This often means you can upgrade materials. Understanding materials helps you discuss options with your roofer.

Asphalt Shingles: The Standard Choice

Most homes have asphalt shingles. Modern shingles are far better than old ones. They come in 3-tab, architectural, and luxury styles. Architectural shingles are most common. They have a dimensional look and longer warranties. Brands like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed are industry leaders. Your insurance should cover the removal of old shingles and installation of new ones. This includes synthetic underlayment, starter strips, and hip/ridge caps.

A critical component is ventilation. The NRCA states proper ventilation is essential for roof life. Your insurance estimate must include intake and exhaust vents. If your old system was inadequate, this is a code-upgrade supplement. Do not let a contractor skip ventilation to save money.

Understanding Roofing Warranties

There are two main warranty types: material and workmanship. The manufacturer provides the material warranty. It covers defects in the shingles. It requires certified installation by a qualified contractor. The contractor provides the workmanship warranty. It covers installation errors like leaks from nailed shingles.

A 50-year shingle does not mean your roof lasts 50 years. It is a prorated warranty. The coverage value decreases over time. Always get warranty certificates in writing. Ensure your contractor registers the warranty with the manufacturer. This is a key step many homeowners miss.

Frequently Asked Questions from Homeowners

1. Is it illegal to waive my insurance deductible?

Yes, in Texas and many states, it is illegal for a contractor to waive, rebate, or pay your deductible. This practice is considered insurance fraud. A legitimate contractor will require you to pay your deductible. It is your share of the repair cost under your policy.

2. What is an Assignment of Benefits (AOB), and should I sign one?

An AOB is a legal form. It transfers your insurance claim rights to the contractor. They can then collect payment directly from your insurer. I strongly advise against signing an AOB upfront. It removes your control over the funds and the process. Only consider it, if at all, after work is complete and you are satisfied.

3. Can I keep the leftover money from my insurance check?

No, not ethically or legally. The insurance payment is to indemnify you—to make you whole from a loss. It is not a profit source. The money is for the specific repairs listed in the estimate. If the final cost is less, the overpayment should be returned to you or your mortgage company.

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

Check your specific policy. Most policies require you to file a claim within one year of the date of loss. However, do not wait. Damage can worsen over time. Delays can also make it harder to prove the storm caused the damage. File as soon as you safely can.

5. What if my insurance claim is denied?

First, get the denial in writing with the specific reason. Common reasons are "wear and tear" or damage older than the storm. You have the right to appeal. Your roofer can help provide additional evidence. You can also hire a public adjuster (not affiliated with a contractor) to re-evaluate. As a last resort, you can consult an attorney specializing in insurance law.

6. Should I get multiple estimates for an insurance job?

Yes, you should get at least two or three estimates from reputable local contractors. This helps you understand the fair price and scope. However, remember the insurance company determines the price they will pay based on their estimate. Your choice of contractor should be based on reputation, quality, and trust, not just the lowest bid.

7. What questions should I ask a roofing contractor?

Ask for their license number and insurance certificates. Ask for manufacturer certifications. Ask for local references. Ask for a detailed written contract. Ask about their waste disposal and worksite cleanup process. Ask how they will protect your landscaping. Ask about their payment schedule. A professional will answer all these easily.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Home and Your Investment

Dealing with roof damage and insurance is challenging. The news about Roofclaim.com lawsuits adds to the confusion. My goal was to cut through that noise. I shared knowledge from twenty-five years on the roof. Your home is your biggest investment. Protect it with information and caution.

Start by choosing a contractor with care. Look for local presence and verifiable credentials. Never sign an AOB under pressure. Understand your insurance estimate. Use your roofer as a technical partner. Ensure the work is done to code and comes with proper warranties. This process takes effort. But it leads to a secure, long-lasting roof over your head.

Your next step is simple. If you have damage, call a trusted local roofer for an inspection. If you are researching, bookmark this guide. Share it with neighbors who might need help. For more information, visit the NRCA consumer resources or the Texas Department of Insurance. Be an informed homeowner. Your home deserves nothing less.