My insurance company denied my roof claim. Is that the end of it?
Not always. A denied roof claim can often be reviewed again. Start by reading the denial letter for the reason, get an independent roof inspection with photos, and ask your insurance company for a reinspection. If you still disagree, many Texas policies include an appraisal process. All My Brothers Construction offers free roof inspections and can go over your options with you.
Why roof claims get denied
Roof claims are usually denied for one of a few reasons. The adjuster may not have found enough damage, the insurance company may have decided the damage came from wear and tear or an older storm, or the estimate may have come in below your deductible.
In many cases, the damage is real but was not fully documented during the first inspection.
Read the denial letter
Your denial letter should state the reason for the decision. That reason tells you what to do next. If the letter says there was not enough damage, a second inspection can help. If it says the damage was from wear and tear, dents in gutters, vents and other metal can help show that hail caused it. If the estimate was below your deductible, some of the damage may have been left out.
Get an independent inspection
Have a roofing contractor inspect your roof and document the damage with photos. The inspection should cover the roof surface, flashing and gutters. At All My Brothers Construction, roof inspections are free and include a detailed report with photos.
Ask for a reinspection
You can ask your insurance company to send an adjuster back out to look at the roof again. Having the documented damage and photos ready for the reinspection can help the adjuster see everything that was found.
Appraisal and the Texas Department of Insurance
If your claim was approved for less than you expected, the insurance company may be able to add damage that was missed. If you and your insurance company still disagree on the amount, many Texas policies include an appraisal clause, where each side chooses an appraiser and an umpire settles the difference. The Texas Department of Insurance also accepts complaints and offers a free helpline.
What to avoid
Avoid making permanent repairs to a roof that is part of an open claim until you have talked with your insurance company. Do not work with a contractor who offers to cover your deductible, because Texas law does not allow it. Keep track of your policy deadlines and keep all communication with your insurance company in writing.
Related questions
How long do I have to file a roof claim in Texas?
It depends on your policy. Many policies require a claim within one year of the damage, and some are shorter. Check your policy and file as soon as you know there is damage.
Can a roofer help with my insurance claim?
Yes. A roofer can inspect the roof, document the damage and help you through the claim process. All My Brothers Construction helps homeowners from the first inspection to the finished roof.
Is the inspection free?
Yes. All My Brothers Construction offers free, no-obligation roof inspections.
