How Roofing Insurance Claims Really Work (And Where Homeowners Get Burned)

The Basics: What a Roofing Insurance Claim Is (and Isn't)

A roofing insurance claim is a request for coverage based on sudden, accidental damage caused by a covered event — typically hail, wind, or severe storms.

Insurance does not cover:

• Normal wear and tear
• Aging materials
• Poor installation
• Deferred maintenance

This distinction matters because many claim denials stem from misunderstanding what insurance is designed to pay for.

ACV vs RCV Coverage: Why Policy Type Matters

Roof insurance claims are generally settled using one of two policy types: Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV).

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

ACV policies account for depreciation based on the age and condition of the roof.

What this means for homeowners:

• Insurance pays the depreciated value of the roof
• Older roofs receive significantly less coverage
• Homeowners often pay a much larger out-of-pocket amount

ACV coverage can make roof replacement financially challenging, even when damage is legitimate.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

RCV policies reimburse the full cost to replace the roof, minus the deductible — but only after repairs are completed and documented.

How RCV works:

• Insurance issues an initial payment (ACV portion)
• Roof work is completed
• Documentation is submitted
• Depreciation is released as a second payment

RCV policies provide stronger protection, but only when the claim process is followed correctly.

The Role of the Insurance Adjuster (and Their Limitations)

Insurance adjusters inspect the roof and prepare an initial estimate. While adjusters are trained professionals, it's important to understand their role and constraints.

Adjusters:

• Work from standardized estimating software
• Are not roofing installers
• Often have limited time per inspection
• May not catch every detail during the first visit

This is not about blame — it's about scope.

What Insurance Adjusters Commonly Miss

Initial insurance estimates frequently omit items that become necessary once work begins.

Commonly overlooked items include:

• Code-required upgrades
• Ventilation corrections
• Flashing replacement
• Drip edge requirements
• Ice and water shield where required
• Hidden decking damage discovered during tear-off

These omissions are typically addressed through supplements, which are formal requests for additional coverage based on documented findings.

A reputable roofing contractor knows how to document and submit supplements properly — without inflating or misrepresenting damage.

Supplements: A Normal (and Necessary) Part of Claims

Supplements are often misunderstood by homeowners.

They are not:

• A sign of wrongdoing
• A loophole
• A way to "game" insurance

They are:

• A formal process recognized by insurers
• Based on real, documented conditions
• Reviewed and approved by the carrier

Most legitimate claims involve at least one supplement — especially on older homes or complex roofs.

Common Homeowner Mistakes That Cause Problems

Many claim issues aren't caused by insurance or contractors — they're caused by misunderstanding the process.

Mistake #1: Assuming the First Estimate Is Final

Insurance estimates are a starting point, not the last word. Treating them as final often leads to underfunded projects.

Mistake #2: Misunderstanding Deductibles

In Texas, deductibles:

• Are required
• Cannot be waived legally
• Are the homeowner's responsibility

Contractors offering to "waive deductibles" are asking homeowners to participate in insurance fraud — which can void claims and create legal exposure.

Mistake #3: Filing Claims Without Understanding Coverage

Filing unnecessary or weak claims can:

• Lead to denials
• Increase premiums
• Impact insurability

A professional inspection before filing helps homeowners make informed decisions.

The Contractor's Role in an Insurance Claim

A reputable roofing contractor should:

• Inspect thoroughly
• Document damage clearly
• Explain coverage differences honestly
• Communicate professionally with the carrier
• Avoid pressuring homeowners to file claims

The contractor works with the process — not against it.

How Delays and Disputes Happen

Most claim delays stem from:

• Incomplete documentation
• Miscommunication
• Missed supplements
• Homeowner misunderstanding timelines
• Poor contractor follow-through

Clear expectations and education prevent nearly all of these issues.

Final Takeaway: Knowledge Is Protection

Roofing insurance claims don't need to be stressful — but they do require understanding.

Homeowners who:

• Know their policy type
• Understand deductibles
• Work with transparent contractors
• Ask informed questions

…are far less likely to be surprised, delayed, or financially exposed.

At RoofDog, the goal isn't to push claims — it's to help homeowners understand the process so they can make confident decisions that protect their homes long-term.