How to get insurance to pay for roof replacement

Step-by-Step Process to Get Insurance to Pay for a Roof Replacement

Filing an insurance claim for a roof replacement can feel overwhelming, but the right approach can maximize your payout and ensure your home is fully protected. SunTex Roofing & Restoration handles the entire claims process for you—from documenting damage to negotiating with your insurance provider—making it as stress-free as possible.

Here’s exactly what to do:

1. Gather the right documentation for your insurance company
2. Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
3. File Your Insurance Claim & Schedule an Adjuster Inspection
4. Work With Your Roofer to Supplement Missing Line Items
5. Approving the Insurance Estimate & Starting the Roof Replacement
6. Approving the Insurance Estimate & Starting the Roof Replacement
7. Final Inspection & Getting the Final Insurance Payout

Step 1: Gather the right documentation for your insurance company

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One of the most common reasons insurance claims get denied or underpaid is insufficient documentation. Insurance companies require detailed proof that storm damage occurred so they can determine your coverage. Missing or unclear evidence can lead to lower payouts or outright denials.

P.S. Instead of handling this yourself, you can call us and we’ll take care of everything for you. We offer FREE, same-day or next-day inspections, ensuring your claim is properly documented from the start.

Why You Should Let Us Handle It

• We do all the work – You don’t have to climb on your roof or worry about missing critical damage.
• Higher insurance payouts – On average, we secure thousands more in claim payouts compared to homeowners filing on their own.
• No risk, no cost – Our inspections and documentation services are completely free.

How We Ensure a Strong Insurance Claim

• Drones & thermal imaging to detect hidden damage.
• Comprehensive photo & video documentation of missing shingles, hail dents, and leaks.
• Detailed reports written in insurance-friendly language to ensure your claim is taken seriously.

Step 2: Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

Before filing a claim, it’s crucial to understand your coverage so you know what to expect for your coverage.

Key Details to Check in Your Policy:

• Covered Perils – Make sure your policy includes coverage for storm-related damage, such as hail, wind, and fallen debris.
• Policy Type – Determine whether you have an Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policy.
  • RCV covers full roof replacement costs.
  • ACV factors in depreciation, which means you could receive significantly less money.
• Filing Deadlines – Many policies require claims to be filed within 6-12 months after the storm event. So don't wait because your coverage might end and you'll be left with the financial responsibility for your repairs or replacement.

Not Sure About Your Policy? Let Us Help. Here's what we'll do:

• Review your policy for you and explain what’s covered.
• Identify potential coverage gaps before you file a claim.
• Ensure you file within the required deadlines to avoid denial.

If you’re unsure about your coverage or how much your insurance company will pay, schedule a free consultation with SunTex Roofing today.

Step 3: File Your Insurance Claim & Schedule an Adjuster Inspection

Once you or we have documented the damage and confirmed that you have a valid claim, the next step is to file with your insurance company. We take care of this process for you, ensuring that your claim is submitted correctly and includes all necessary details to maximize your payout.

How to File a Claim

• Contact your insurance provider to report the damage.
• Provide key details, such as the date of the storm and the extent of the damage.
• Submit the comprehensive damage report and photos (we can do this for you)
• Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to inspect the property.

What Happens Next?

• Adjuster Inspection: The insurance adjuster will visit your home to assess the damage.
• SunTex Roofing On-Site Representation: We meet with the adjuster to ensure all damage is documented and that nothing is overlooked. US BEING HERE IS KEY TO MAKING SURE YOU GET THE COVERAGE YOU DESERVE.
• Negotiation for Full Coverage: If the adjuster’s initial report underestimates the damage, we advocate on your behalf to secure the full amount needed for a proper roof replacement.

Why This Matters: Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company—not for you. Without proper representation, claims are often undervalued. SunTex Roofing ensures you receive a fair and accurate assessment.

Step 4: Work With Your Roofer to Supplement Missing Line Items

Insurance companies frequently underpay claims by leaving out necessary repairs and code-required upgrades. Our team at SunTex Roofing ensures that all required repairs are included in your insurance settlement.

Common Repairs Insurance Companies Often Miss:

• Flashing Replacement – Protects against water intrusion and is required for proper installation.
• Drip Edge Installation – A code requirement that prevents water from seeping under shingles.
• Ventilation & Underlayment Upgrades – Ensures your new roof meets current building codes and extends its lifespan.

How SunTex Roofing Ensures Full Coverage:

• We review the insurance estimate to identify missing line items.
• We submit supplement requests to correct any underpayments.
• We handle all communication with the insurance company, so you don’t have to.

Why This Matters: Many homeowners are left paying out-of-pocket for repairs that should have been covered. We negotiate directly with your insurance company to make sure your claim includes every necessary repair.

Step 5: Approving the Insurance Estimate & Starting the Roof Replacement

Before any work begins, we ensure that your insurance settlement fully covers the required repairs. If the payout is too low, we continue negotiations to increase it before starting the project.

What Happens Before Work Begins:

• Review Your Insurance Settlement – We go over the insurance paperwork with you to ensure every needed repair is included.
• Negotiate Additional Coverage (If Necessary) – If the insurance estimate is insufficient, we advocate for a revised settlement before work starts.

Roof Replacement Process:

• We use high-quality materials that meet all local building codes.
• No hidden costs – Your insurance covers the full replacement (minus your deductible).
• Most roof replacements are completed within 1-2 days.

Pro Tip: If you want premium upgrades (such as impact-resistant shingles), insurance covers the standard replacement, and you only pay the difference.

Step 6: Final Inspection & Getting the Final Insurance Payout

Once your new roof is installed, SunTex Roofing ensures that all final paperwork is submitted to your insurance provider for the final payout.

Final Steps:

• We submit a completion report and final invoice to your insurance company.
• We ensure that insurance releases the final payment (recoverable depreciation).
• We provide a workmanship and materials warranty, giving you long-term protection and peace of mind.

How We Ensure You Get the Full Payout:

• Insurance companies often hold back part of the payment (recoverable depreciation) until proof of work completion is submitted.
• We handle all required documentation to guarantee you receive the final check.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

If your insurance company denies your claim, don’t assume it’s the final decision. Many claims are initially denied due to insufficient documentation, adjuster oversight, or misinterpretation of policy terms. However, there are several ways to challenge the denial and work toward getting your roof replacement covered.

Step 1: Request a Re Inspection

One of the most effective ways to overturn a denial is to request a second inspection. Insurance adjusters sometimes miss critical damage or underestimate the extent of the repairs needed. SunTex Roofing can help by:

• Conducting a thorough second inspection, identifying damage that may have been overlooked.
• Meeting with a new insurance adjuster on-site to advocate for a fair assessment.
• Providing additional documentation, including detailed reports and high-resolution images, to strengthen your case.

Step 2: Work With a Public Adjuster

If your reinspection doesn’t lead to claim approval, you may need to escalate the matter by hiring a public adjuster. Public adjusters work independently from the insurance company and represent the homeowner’s interests.

SunTex Roofing can connect you with a reputable public adjuster who will:

• Review your insurance policy and denial letter to identify any discrepancies.
• Conduct their own assessment of the damage and submit a revised estimate to the insurance provider.
• Negotiate on your behalf to maximize your insurance payout.

Step 3: Consider Legal Action (Last Resort)

If your claim is wrongfully denied despite clear evidence of damage and multiple attempts to resolve the issue, legal action may be necessary. Some insurance companies act in bad faith by deliberately underpaying or denying legitimate claims. If you suspect this is the case, you may need to consult an attorney specializing in insurance disputes.

Legal options may include:

• Filing a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner.
• Pursuing mediation or arbitration to settle the dispute outside of court.
• Taking legal action against the insurance company for breach of contract.

While legal action should be a last resort, it can be an effective way to hold insurance providers accountable and recover the full amount you’re owed.

How SunTex Roofing Helps Homeowners Fight Claim Denials

At SunTex Roofing, we fight for homeowners to ensure they receive the coverage they deserve. Our team handles every step of the process, from documenting damage and meeting with adjusters to assisting with supplemental claims and working with public adjusters if needed.

If your insurance claim has been denied, don’t give up. Contact SunTex Roofing for a free reinspection and expert guidance on getting your claim approved.

Types of Roof Damage Typically Covered by Insurance

Most homeowners' insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage caused by external forces. If your roof was damaged due to an uncontrollable event, your insurance will likely cover some or all of the costs for a roof replacement.

• Hailstorms – Hail can knock protective granules off shingles, crack tiles, and dent metal roofing, reducing your roof’s ability to protect your home.
• Windstorms – High winds can tear shingles off your roof, lift roofing materials, and cause structural damage.
• Fallen Trees & Debris – If a tree or large branch falls and damages your roof, your insurance should cover repairs or replacement.
• Fire & Lightning Strikes – If fire or lightning destroys your roof, your insurance provider will likely pay for a full replacement.

Important Note: Insurance companies classify these events as “Acts of God” or sudden damage, meaning they are typically covered under your policy.

Common Reasons Insurance Companies Deny Roof Claims

Just because your roof is damaged doesn’t mean your insurance provider will automatically approve your claim. Insurance companies look for reasons to minimize payouts. Some of the most common reasons for denials include:

• Pre-Existing Damage – If your roof had prior issues before the storm, insurance may argue that the storm wasn’t the primary cause.
• Aging or Lack of Maintenance – If your roof is over 15 to 20 years old or shows signs of neglect, insurance may refuse to cover replacement.
• Cosmetic-Only Damage – If damage is deemed purely aesthetic (such as minor dents in metal flashing), insurance may deny the claim.

Pro Tip: If your claim is denied, you can request a reinspection with a roofing contractor present to challenge the decision.

ACV vs. RCV: How Your Insurance Pays for a New Roof

Not all homeowners' insurance policies provide full coverage for a roof replacement. The amount your insurance pays depends on whether you have an Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policy.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV) Policy – Best Coverage

• Your insurance covers the full cost of replacing your roof with similar materials.
• You receive two payments:
  • The first check covers the depreciated value of your roof.
  • The second check (recoverable depreciation) is sent after the new roof is installed.
• You only pay your deductible—insurance covers the rest.

Example: If your new roof costs $15,000, insurance first pays $7,500 and holds back $7,500 in depreciation. Once the work is completed, you receive the remaining $7,500, meaning your only out-of-pocket cost is your deductible.

Actual Cash Value (ACV) Policy – Limited Coverage

• Insurance only pays for what your roof is worth today, factoring in depreciation.
• Older roofs receive less money because insurance subtracts for wear and tear.
• You are responsible for paying the remaining cost out of pocket.

Example: If your 15-year-old roof originally cost $15,000, but depreciation reduces its value to $6,000, insurance will only pay $6,000 minus your deductible. You must cover the remaining $9,000 yourself.

Important: Many homeowners don’t realize they have an ACV policy until they file a claim and receive a lower payout than expected.

Pro Tip: If possible, upgrade to an RCV policy—it provides better coverage and ensures you aren’t stuck paying thousands out of pocket.

Signs of Storm Damage That Could Qualify for an Insurance Claim

Insurance companies require clear proof that a storm caused significant damage before approving a roof replacement claim. While some damage is obvious, others can be subtle but still qualify for insurance coverage.

Exterior Signs of Storm Damage

• Missing, Creased, or Broken Shingles – High winds can tear shingles off or cause them to curl, bend, or lift, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks.
• Granule Loss & Dented Metal Roofing – Hail can strip protective granules from shingles, making them more prone to future damage. Dents in metal roofing, vents, and flashing are strong indicators of hail impact.
• Dented Gutters, Siding, or AC Units – If hail or wind has left dents in your gutters, downspouts, siding, or outdoor air conditioning units, it’s likely your roof also sustained damage.

Pro Tip: Even if you don’t see shingle damage, dents on gutters, vents, or fences can help prove storm impact to your insurance provider.

Interior Signs of Roof Damage

• Water Stains on Ceilings – Yellow or brown spots on your ceiling are a sign that water has seeped through the roof.
• Peeling Paint or Warped Drywall – Moisture damage from a leaking roof can cause bubbling paint, sagging drywall, or soft spots on walls and ceilings.
• Mold or Mildew Growth – Persistent moisture in the attic or along ceiling corners often indicates a slow roof leak, which can worsen over time.

Why It Matters: Even if exterior damage isn’t visible, interior leaks provide strong proof that your roof’s structure has been compromised.

What to Do If You Spot Storm Damage

• Take clear, high-resolution photos of all damage, including your roof, gutters, siding, and ceilings. You can also call us so we can take a higher quantity and quality amount of photos and go to places that we know to look for common damage so that you get the full coverage you deserve.
• Check your neighborhood—if neighbors are replacing their roofs, yours may have damage too.
• Schedule a free professional inspection from a reputable roofing contractor to confirm the extent of the damage.

Don’t Wait! Insurance claims often have strict filing deadlines. If you suspect storm damage, call SunTex Roofing & Restoration at (214) 766-3669 for a free roof inspection today!