Guide to Filing Roof Insurance Claims

Filing a roof insurance claim can be stressful and confusing. Insurance adjusters, depreciation schedules, and supplemental claims are not topics most homeowners deal with regularly. This guide walks you through the entire claims process so you can navigate it confidently and get the coverage you are entitled to.

When to File a Roof Insurance Claim

File a claim when:

• A storm (wind, hail, tornado, hurricane) has damaged your roof
• A tree or large branch has fallen on your roof
• Fire has damaged your roof
• The damage exceeds your deductible amount

Do NOT file a claim for:

• Normal wear and tear (aging, moss, granule loss from age)
• Damage below your deductible amount
• Pre-existing conditions unrelated to a specific event
• Cosmetic damage if your policy has a cosmetic exclusion

The Claims Process Step by Step

1. Report the damage to your insurer within 24-72 hours of the event. Call the claims number on your policy card or use the online portal.
2. Mitigate further damage. Your policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage (tarping, catching water). Keep all receipts.
3. Get a professional roof inspection. Have a reputable local roofer inspect your roof and provide a detailed estimate before the adjuster visit.
4. Meet the insurance adjuster. An adjuster will be assigned to inspect the damage. This usually happens within 1-2 weeks.
5. Review the adjuster's report. The insurer will send a written estimate of the damage and a settlement amount.
6. Accept, negotiate, or supplement. If the settlement is fair, accept it and proceed with repairs. If not, you can supplement with additional documentation.
7. Complete repairs. Hire a contractor and complete the work. Keep all invoices.
8. Collect recoverable depreciation. If your policy is Replacement Cost Value (RCV), the insurer will release the depreciation holdback after repairs are completed.

Documentation You Need

• Photos and videos of all damage (before any cleanup or repairs)
• Weather reports showing storm conditions (wind speeds, hail size)
• Your roofer's inspection report and estimate
• Receipts for any emergency repairs (tarps, board-up)
• Your policy declarations page (shows deductible, coverage limits)
• Records of previous roof work or maintenance
• Receipts for any personal property damaged by leaks

Working with the Insurance Adjuster

Tips for the adjuster inspection:

• Be present. Walk the property with the adjuster and point out all damage.
• Have your roofer present. A knowledgeable roofer can identify damage the adjuster might miss and speak the same technical language.
• Point out all damage. Do not assume the adjuster will find everything. Show them damage to gutters, siding, vents, and surrounding property, not just the roof.
• Be honest. Do not exaggerate or fabricate damage. Insurance fraud is a felony. But do make sure all legitimate damage is documented.
• Take notes. Record what the adjuster says, where they inspect, and any observations they share.

Understanding Your Settlement

ACV vs RCV Policies

• Actual Cash Value (ACV): Pays the depreciated value of your roof. If your roof is 15 years into a 25-year lifespan, you may only receive 40% of the replacement cost. ACV policies result in smaller payouts.
• Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Pays the full cost to replace your roof with similar materials, regardless of age. This is the better policy type. The insurer pays in two stages: initial payment (minus deductible and depreciation) and recoverable depreciation after repairs are completed.

Understanding the Math

Example for an RCV policy with $12,000 replacement cost and $1,000 deductible:

• Total replacement cost: $12,000
• Depreciation (roof was 10 years old): -$3,000
• Deductible: -$1,000
• Initial payment: $8,000
• After completing repairs, recoverable depreciation: +$3,000
• Total received: $11,000 ($12,000 minus $1,000 deductible)

Supplementing a Claim

If the adjuster's estimate is lower than your roofer's estimate, you can file a supplement. Common reasons for supplementing:

• Adjuster missed damage on some roof planes
• Hidden damage found during repair (rotted decking)
• Code upgrades required (additional ventilation, ice shield)
• Material cost differences (adjuster priced lower-quality materials)

Your roofer can help prepare the supplemental documentation. Many experienced roofers handle supplement negotiations regularly.

Tips to Maximize Your Claim

1. File promptly. Delays can result in denial or reduced coverage.
2. Hire a roofer before the adjuster visit to identify all damage.
3. Document everything with photos, video, and written notes.
4. Know your policy. Read the relevant sections before the adjuster visit.
5. Do not accept a low settlement without questioning it. You have the right to supplement and dispute.
6. Complete repairs promptly. You must complete repairs to collect recoverable depreciation, and most policies have a time limit (often 180 days to 1 year).

Use our roof replacement cost calculator to estimate your project cost independently.

Frequently Asked Questions