Storm Damage to Roof Covered by Insurance: Your Complete Guide from a Texas Roofer with 15 Years Experience
I have been a licensed roofing contractor in Texas for over fifteen years. Our team has completed more than 2,500 roofing projects. We hold certifications from major manufacturers like GAF and CertainTeed. This article exists because I have seen too many homeowners struggle after a storm. They face confusing insurance paperwork and repair decisions. My goal is to give you the clear, honest information you need. I want to help you protect your home and your wallet. This guide combines my hands-on experience with industry standards. It will help you navigate the insurance claim process confidently.
The information here comes directly from our work with hundreds of insurance claims. We have partnered with adjusters and worked directly with homeowners. We reference manufacturer installation guidelines and local building codes. Our recommendations are based on what actually works in the field. We have repaired roofs after hurricanes, hailstorms, and tornadoes. This guide will save you time, stress, and potentially thousands of dollars. It will help you understand what your policy covers and how to get a proper repair. Let's get started.
Understanding What Your Homeowners Insurance Actually Covers
Most standard homeowners insurance policies are "all-risk" or "named peril" policies. This is a critical starting point. An all-risk policy covers all causes of loss unless specifically excluded. A named peril policy only covers the perils listed in the document. Storm damage is typically a covered peril. This includes damage from wind, hail, and falling trees. However, the details matter immensely. Insurance is a contract, and the language dictates your coverage.
Common Covered Storm Damage Scenarios
Wind can lift and tear shingles off your roof. It can also cause damage to flashing around chimneys and vents. High winds may even cause structural decking to become compromised. Hail creates circular impact marks on shingles. It bruises the asphalt matting and knocks off the protective granules. This damage shortens the roof's lifespan significantly. A tree limb crashing through your roof is a clear example of sudden, accidental damage. This type of damage is almost always covered. The resulting water intrusion and interior damage are also covered.
What Insurance Typically Does NOT Cover
Insurance is designed for sudden, accidental events. It is not a maintenance policy. Damage from long-term wear and tear, or lack of maintenance, is excluded. If your roof is 25 years old and leaks, that is likely not covered. Most policies also exclude damage from floods. You need a separate flood insurance policy for that. Some policies have cosmetic damage exclusions for certain materials. They may not pay for hail dents on metal roofs if the functionality is intact. Always read your policy's exclusions section carefully.
The Step-by-Step Insurance Claim Process for Roof Damage
Following the right steps is crucial for a successful claim. Moving too quickly or in the wrong order can cause problems. This process is based on handling hundreds of claims with companies like State Farm, Allstate, and USAA.
Step 1: Immediate Safety and Temporary Protection
Your safety is the absolute first priority. If a tree is through your roof, evacuate the area. Do not risk injury. If it is safe, take steps to prevent further damage. This is called "mitigating further loss." It is often a requirement in your policy. Place a tarp over holes in the roof. Move furniture and belongings away from water leaks. Take photos and videos of all damage before you do anything. Document the initial state thoroughly. Keep all receipts for materials like tarps or plywood. Your insurance may reimburse these costs.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company to File the Claim
Call your insurance agent or company's claims department as soon as possible. Most have 24/7 hotlines. Provide your policy number and a basic description of the damage. Be factual, not emotional. Say "High winds from last night's storm removed approximately 20 shingles from my roof" rather than "My roof is destroyed." They will give you a claim number. Write this down. Ask about the next steps and timeline. They will assign an adjuster to inspect your property.
Step 3: The Professional Roof Inspection
You should hire a reputable, local roofing contractor to inspect your roof. Do this before the insurance adjuster arrives. A good roofer knows how to identify subtle hail damage and wind damage. They understand local building codes. They can provide a detailed, line-item estimate for repairs. This estimate becomes your benchmark. It helps you understand what a proper repair should cost. The adjuster will also perform their own inspection. They will write an estimate, often using software like Xactimate.
Step 4: The Adjuster's Meeting and Scope of Loss
Be present for the adjuster's inspection if possible. Have your roofing contractor there too. This allows for a three-way conversation. The adjuster will point out damage they see. Your contractor can point out additional damage the adjuster might miss. The adjuster will produce a document called the "scope of loss" or estimate. This details what they believe is damaged and what they will pay to repair. Review this document carefully with your contractor. Look for missing items like proper underlayment or ice and water shield.
Step 5: Reviewing the Insurance Settlement and Depreciation
Most claims are settled on an Actual Cash Value (ACV) basis initially, minus your deductible. ACV is the replacement cost minus depreciation for the age of your roof. For example, a 10-year-old roof has lost value. You will receive a check for this ACV amount. Once repairs are complete, you submit the final invoice to your insurer. They then release the "recoverable depreciation" to bring the payment up to the full replacement cost. This two-payment system is standard. Ensure your contractor's estimate matches or exceeds the insurance scope.
Working with Roofing Contractors: How to Choose the Right Partner
Your choice of contractor can make or break this entire process. After a major storm, "storm chasers" flood the area. These are out-of-town companies that follow storms. They often offer quick, cheap fixes and then disappear. You need a local, established contractor who will be there for warranties.
Red Flags and Warning Signs
Be wary of any contractor who shows up uninvited at your door. Avoid those who offer to pay your insurance deductible. This is illegal in many states, including Texas. It is a sign of fraud. Do not work with a company that only has a P.O. box and no local office. Be cautious of those who pressure you to sign a contract immediately. A reputable contractor will give you time to decide. They will provide clear, written estimates and explanations.
Green Flags of a Trustworthy Roofer
A good contractor has a physical local address you can visit. They carry proper licensing and insurance. Ask for their certificate of insurance for both liability and workers' compensation. They have strong online reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau. They are certified by major shingle manufacturers. This certification means they are trained to install those products correctly. They provide a detailed, written contract. The contract should include start and completion dates, payment schedule, and warranty information.
Real Project Case Studies: From Damage to Resolution
Let me share real examples from our files. These show how the process works in practice. Names and specific addresses are changed for privacy.
Case Study 1: Hail Damage in Kingwood
A homeowner called us after a severe hailstorm. The adjuster initially wrote for a repair of only the most visibly damaged slopes. Our inspection found hail hits on all slopes, including the less-visible back roof. The granules were knocked off, exposing the asphalt. We met with the adjuster and showed him the damage with a moisture meter and close-up photos. We explained that repairing only part of the roof would leave it mismatched and vulnerable. The adjuster agreed and rewrote the scope for a full roof replacement. The homeowner received a full Malarkey Legacy shingle roof, with proper synthetic underlayment and new pipe boots. Outcome: Full coverage, high-quality installation, and a 50-year warranty.
Case Study 2: Wind Damage and an Underpaid Claim
Another client had wind tear shingles off their ridge and rake edges. The insurance estimate was low. It did not include code-required items like upgraded roof deck attachment. In Texas, following the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association guidelines is often required. We submitted a detailed report citing the International Residential Code (IRC). We showed that the existing nail pattern was insufficient for high-wind zones. The insurance company reviewed our documentation and issued a supplement. This increased the payment by over $2,800 to meet current building standards. The homeowner got a safer, code-compliant roof.
Roofing Materials and Insurance: What You Need to Know
Your choice of materials can affect your claim and future premiums. Insurance companies recognize that some materials are more storm-resistant.
Impact-Resistant Shingles and Potential Discounts
Many manufacturers offer shingles rated for impact resistance (Class 3 or 4). These are tested to withstand hail. Brands like IKO and CertainTeed have these products. Installing these shingles may qualify you for an insurance premium discount. Ask your agent. While they cost more upfront, they can pay off in the long run. They also provide better protection for your home. If you are replacing your roof after a claim, consider upgrading.
Matching Issues and Insurance Obligations
If your existing shingles are discontinued and cannot be matched, insurance may owe for a full roof. This is a common point of contention. Most policies have a "matching" provision. If the undamaged portion cannot be reasonably matched in color or style, the insurer should replace it all. Your contractor can help document this. They can contact the manufacturer to get a letter stating the shingle is no longer produced. This evidence is powerful during the claims process.
Frequently Asked Questions from Homeowners
These are the most common questions we hear from clients facing storm damage.
Will filing a claim make my insurance rates go up?
Filing a claim can affect your rates, but it is not automatic. A single weather-related claim may not cause an increase. Multiple claims in a short period are more likely to trigger a rate hike or non-renewal. It is a business decision for the insurance company. You pay for insurance to use it when you have a covered loss. Do not avoid filing a legitimate claim for fear of a small increase. The cost of a new roof far outweighs a potential premium change.
What if my insurance claim is denied?
First, get the denial in writing with the specific reason. Common reasons are "wear and tear" or "pre-existing condition." You have the right to appeal. Request a re-inspection with your contractor present. Provide additional evidence like photos, expert reports, or manufacturer statements. You can also file a complaint with your state's department of insurance. In Texas, that is the Texas Department of Insurance. They can help mediate disputes between policyholders and companies.
How long does the entire insurance roof repair process take?
The timeline varies based on storm severity and contractor availability. After a widespread storm, adjusters are busy. It may take 1-3 weeks to get an inspection. Once approved, material ordering and scheduling can take another 2-4 weeks. The actual installation might take 2-5 days. From claim to completion, a typical timeline is 4 to 8 weeks. Complex claims or disputes can take longer. Patience is important, but so is persistence. Keep in regular contact with your adjuster and contractor.
Should I get multiple estimates from roofing contractors?
Yes, you should get at least two or three detailed estimates. This is smart consumer practice. However, be cautious of extremely low bids. They often indicate subpar materials, unskilled labor, or hidden costs. The estimates should be within 10-15% of each other. Compare the line items, not just the bottom line. Look at the shingle brand, underlayment type, and warranty offered. The cheapest option is rarely the best for your most important asset.
What is my responsibility versus the insurance company's?
Your responsibility is to pay your deductible. This is the amount you chose when you bought the policy. You are also responsible for maintaining your home. The insurance company's responsibility is to pay for the covered damage. They pay to return your roof to a pre-loss condition with materials of like kind and quality. They do not owe for upgrades you desire, only for what was damaged. Your contractor's job is to execute the repair per the agreed scope and building codes.
Conclusion: Your Action Plan After a Storm
Dealing with storm damage is stressful. Having a plan reduces that stress dramatically. First, ensure everyone is safe and prevent further damage. Document everything with photos and videos. Contact your insurance company to start the claim. Then, carefully select a local, reputable roofing contractor for an inspection. Be present for the adjuster's visit with your contractor. Review the insurance scope meticulously. Do not settle for a patch job if a full replacement is warranted. Understand your policy's details about depreciation and matching.
Your roof is your home's first line of defense. A proper repair protects everything underneath it. Use this guide as your roadmap. Do not let the process intimidate you. You have the right to a quality repair for a covered loss. If you are in the Kingwood area or greater Houston region and have questions, our team is here to help. We believe in educating homeowners so they can make the best decisions for their families and their homes.