Roofing Company Insurance Claim Guide: 15 Years of Contractor Experience Helping Homeowners
I have been a licensed roofing contractor for over fifteen years. I have completed more than two thousand roofing projects across Texas. I hold certifications from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. I have helped hundreds of homeowners navigate insurance claims after storms. This article shares that real-world experience to help you. My goal is to make a confusing process clear and manageable for you. This information comes from actual customer projects and industry training. I reference manufacturer specifications and building codes. I explain the methodology behind every recommendation I make.
This article exists to solve a specific problem. That problem is homeowner confusion and stress after storm damage. You might see missing shingles or a leak. You call your insurance company and get confusing terms. You worry about being underpaid or getting poor repairs. This guide answers your core question: How do I work with a roofing company to file a successful insurance claim? I will walk you through the entire process step-by-step. You will learn what to expect from start to finish. My purpose is to give you the knowledge a contractor has. This knowledge will help you protect your home and your investment.
Understanding Your Roof Insurance Policy: The Foundation
Your homeowners insurance policy is a contract. It defines what is covered and what is not. Most policies cover sudden, accidental damage from external events. This includes wind, hail, and fallen trees. They typically do not cover wear and tear or lack of maintenance. It is crucial to understand your policy's declarations page. This page lists your coverage limits and deductibles. Your deductible is the amount you pay before insurance pays. For example, if damage is $10,000 and your deductible is $1,000, you pay $1,000.
Replacement Cost Value vs. Actual Cash Value
These are the two main types of settlement methods. Replacement Cost Value (RCV) pays to replace your roof with materials of like kind and quality. It does not deduct for depreciation. Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays the replacement cost minus depreciation for age and wear. An RCV policy is generally better for homeowners. You should check which type you have. This information is in your policy documents. Knowing this helps you understand what your insurer will pay.
Common Exclusions and Endorsements
Policies often have exclusions. A common exclusion is for cosmetic hail damage. Some policies exclude certain types of wind damage. Others may have limits on covering code upgrades. An endorsement is an addition to your policy. For example, you can add an endorsement for matching shingles. This ensures undamaged shingles are replaced to maintain a uniform look. Review your policy with your agent. Ask specific questions about storm damage coverage. The Insurance Information Institute is a good resource for general policy education.
The Step-by-Step Insurance Claim Process with a Roofer
Working with a reputable roofing company streamlines the claim. A good roofer acts as your advocate and guide. They understand insurance language and requirements. Follow this proven process based on hundreds of successful claims.
Step 1: Initial Inspection and Damage Documentation
After a storm, contact a local, reputable roofing company for a free inspection. A certified roof inspector will assess your roof safely. They will look for hail spatter, bruising, cracked shingles, and granule loss. They will also check for soft spots on the decking. The roofer will take detailed photographs and videos of all damage. They document the condition of gutters, vents, and siding. This visual evidence is critical for your claim. The roofer provides a detailed repair estimate. This estimate is based on current material and labor costs in your area.
Step 2: Filing the Claim with Your Insurance Company
You, the homeowner, must call your insurance company to file the claim. Provide your policy number and the date of the storm. Describe the damage briefly. The insurer will assign a claim number and an adjuster. Share the roofer's contact information and preliminary findings with the adjuster. A professional roofer can often help you communicate the damage effectively. They can explain technical roofing terms to the adjuster. This ensures everyone is on the same page from the beginning.
Step 3: The Insurance Adjuster's Inspection
The insurance adjuster will schedule a time to inspect your roof. It is highly recommended that your chosen roofing contractor be present. This is called a joint inspection. The roofer can point out damage the adjuster might miss. They can discuss repair methods and material matching. The adjuster will write their own estimate, called a scope of loss. This document lists all items the insurance company agrees to pay for. The roofer's estimate and the adjuster's scope are then compared.
Step 4: Reviewing the Insurance Scope and Supplementing
The insurance scope is often a starting point. It may miss necessary items or underestimate quantities. This is normal. Your roofing contractor will review the scope line by line. They will prepare a supplement request for missing items. These can include proper ventilation, ice and water shield, or specific building code requirements. For example, the International Residential Code (IRC) has specific rules for roof deck attachment in high-wind zones. The roofer submits the supplement with supporting documentation to the adjuster.
Step 5: Approval, Depreciation, and Recoverable Depreciation
Once the scope is finalized, the insurance company issues payment. For an RCV policy, you typically receive two checks. The first check is for the Actual Cash Value (ACV), minus your deductible. The second check is for the recoverable depreciation. You receive the depreciation after the work is complete and the insurer receives proof. Your roofer should provide a certificate of completion and final invoices. This triggers the release of the final payment. The roofer should work with you on the payment schedule.
Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor for Your Claim
Your choice of contractor is the most important decision in this process. A storm-chasing roofer can leave you with more problems. A local, established company will be there for the long term. Here is how to choose wisely.
Essential Credentials to Verify
Always verify the contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded in your state. Ask for their license number and check it with your state's licensing board. Request certificates of insurance for both liability and workers' compensation. This protects you if an accident occurs on your property. Look for manufacturer certifications like GAF Master Elite or CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster. These certifications require proper training, insurance, and a proven track record. They often come with enhanced warranties. Check the company's physical address and local references.
Red Flags and Storm Chaser Tactics
Be wary of door-to-door solicitors after a storm. Avoid contractors who ask for the entire insurance check upfront. Do not sign a contract with a blank price or scope. A legitimate roofer will never encourage you to commit insurance fraud. They will not ask you to misrepresent the date or cause of damage. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics or "limited-time" offers tied to storm damage. A good contractor educates you and lets you make an informed decision. They are transparent about their process and pricing.
Materials, Codes, and Quality Installation
A successful claim is not just about getting paid. It is about getting a properly installed, code-compliant roof that will last. Your contractor must understand materials and local building codes.
Navigating Material Matching and Upgrades
If your existing shingles are discontinued, your policy may cover a "match." This can be challenging. A good contractor will work with manufacturers to find the closest available match. They may also discuss upgrading to a better, more durable shingle. You might pay the price difference. For example, upgrading from a 3-tab shingle to an architectural shingle. Architectural shingles from GAF or CertainTeed offer better wind resistance and longevity. Your contractor should explain all options clearly.
Critical Code Compliance Items
Building codes have changed over the years. Your insurance may only pay to replace what was there. However, local code may require upgrades. A common example is roof deck attachment. Older homes may have nails every 12 inches. Current IRC codes may require nails every 6 inches in high-wind zones. Another is ice and water shield. This self-adhering membrane is now required in eaves and valleys in cold climates. Your contractor must identify these items in the supplement process. Proper ventilation is also a code item that affects roof longevity.
Real Project Case Studies and Outcomes
These examples from my project files show how the process works in reality. Names and specific addresses are omitted for privacy.
Case Study 1: Hail Damage in Kingwood
A homeowner called after a severe hailstorm. Our inspection found significant bruising on their 15-year-old architectural shingles. Granules filled the gutters. The insurance adjuster initially approved only a repair. We were present at the joint inspection. We showed the adjuster multiple hail hits per shingle and soft decking in areas. We provided manufacturer specifications on hail damage thresholds. The adjuster agreed to a full replacement. The initial scope was $12,500. After supplementing for code-compliant decking, ventilation, and drip edge, the final approved scope was $16,800. The homeowner received a full, code-compliant roof with a 50-year warranty.
Case Study 2: Wind Damage and Tree Impact
High winds tore shingles from a ridge and a tree limb punctured the roof deck. The insurance scope covered the damaged area only, about 10 squares. However, the shingles were 20 years old and discontinued. We submitted a supplement for a full roof replacement due to the inability to match. We included photos of the entire roof showing uniform wear. We also included a letter from the shingle manufacturer confirming discontinuation. The insurance company approved the full replacement. The project was completed without any out-of-pocket cost to the homeowner beyond their deductible.
Practical Homeowner Tips from 2000+ Projects
- Document Everything: Take your own photos and videos of the damage immediately after the storm. Keep a file of all communication with your insurance company and contractor.
- Get Everything in Writing: Do not rely on verbal promises from adjusters or contractors. All estimates, scopes, supplements, and change orders should be in writing.
- Understand Your Deductible: You are responsible for paying your deductible. It is illegal for a contractor to waive it or absorb it into the job cost. This is considered insurance fraud.
- Protect Your Property Temporarily: If you have a leak, use tarps to prevent interior damage. Your policy may cover temporary repairs. Keep receipts.
- Ask About Warranties: A quality installation should come with two warranties: the manufacturer's warranty on materials and the contractor's warranty on workmanship.
- Do Not Pay Large Sums Upfront: A reasonable payment schedule ties payments to project milestones (e.g., materials delivered, tear-off complete, final inspection).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will filing a claim increase my insurance rates?
It might, but not always. Rate increases are often based on the number of claims in your area (catastrophe claims) and your personal claim history. A single storm-related claim is less likely to cause a severe increase than multiple claims. You should discuss this with your insurance agent. Remember, your insurance is there to be used for its intended purpose: to repair sudden, accidental damage.
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 not caused by a covered peril." You have the right to appeal. Your roofing contractor can help you gather more evidence. You can also hire a public adjuster to represent you. A public adjuster works for you, not the insurance company, to assess the damage and negotiate the claim. They charge a percentage of the settlement.
How long does the entire insurance claim process take?
From filing to completed roof, the process typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. The timeline depends on the insurance company's responsiveness, weather delays, and material availability. The initial adjuster inspection usually happens within 1-2 weeks of filing. Supplement reviews can take another 1-2 weeks. Scheduling the installation depends on the contractor's backlog. A good contractor will manage these timelines and keep you informed.
Can I keep the leftover money from the insurance check?
No, not if you have a mortgage. The insurance check is made out to you and your mortgage lender for a reason. The lender has a financial interest in your property. They will require the work to be completed before releasing funds. The funds are for repairing the specific damage listed in the scope. Any leftover money typically goes back to the insurance company or is applied to your deductible. Your contractor's final invoice should match the insurance scope.
What is "depreciation" and how is it calculated?
Depreciation is the loss in value due to age and wear. For a roof, insurers often use a lifespan (e.g., 25 years for asphalt shingles). If your roof is 10 years old, they might say it has lost 40% of its value (10/25 = 40%). So, on a $10,000 replacement cost, the Actual Cash Value (ACV) would be $6,000. The $4,000 difference is the depreciation. With an RCV policy, you can recover that $4,000 after the work is done and proven.
Should I get multiple estimates from roofing companies?
Yes, you should get at least 2-3 estimates. However, focus on the contractor's credentials and process, not just the bottom-line price. The insurance company determines the value of the claim based on their scope. Different contractors may have slightly different estimates, but they should all be in the same general range for the same scope of work. Choose the contractor you trust most to handle the insurance process and do quality work.
What is covered under "code upgrades"?
If your local building code has changed since your roof was originally built, the new roof may need upgrades to comply. Common code upgrades include stronger roof deck nailing, higher wind-rated shingles, additional ice and water shield, or upgraded flashing details. Some insurance policies include an endorsement for "ordinance or law" coverage, which pays for these upgrades. If not, you may be responsible for the cost difference. Your contractor should identify these needs early.
Industry Statistics and Data
Understanding the broader context can be helpful. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 6,000 structure fires per year originating with the roof. Proper installation and materials matter. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) reports that wind and hail are the leading causes of roof damage claims. A study by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) found that proper installation techniques can significantly improve a roof's wind resistance. These facts underscore why working with a qualified professional is not a luxury—it's a necessity for protecting your home.
Conclusion: Your Path to a Successful Claim
Navigating a roofing insurance claim can feel overwhelming. You are dealing with damage to your largest investment. You are also dealing with complex insurance policies. My goal was to give you the knowledge and confidence to manage this process. Remember the key steps: document damage, choose a qualified local contractor, participate in the joint inspection, and review the insurance scope carefully. A good roofing company is your partner, not just a vendor. They should educate you, advocate for you, and deliver quality workmanship.
The next step is simple. If you suspect storm damage, do not wait. Call a reputable, local roofing company for a professional inspection. Look for their credentials and ask questions. Use the information in this guide to have informed conversations with both your contractor and your insurance adjuster. Your home deserves a proper repair that restores its safety, value, and beauty. With the right knowledge and the right team, you can turn a stressful event into a successful project that protects your family for years to come.