5 Essential Tips for Filing a Roofing Insurance Claim (Homeowner Guide)
- superadmin33
- Sep 2
- 8 min read
Quick takeaways
Act fast. Report the loss promptly and mitigate further damage (tarp, board-up).
Know your policy. Understand covered perils, exclusions, deductibles, ACV vs RCV, and any special wind/hail/hurricane deductibles.
Get a real inspection. A detailed, written, photo-rich independent roof report is your best friend.
Document everything. Photos, receipts, timelines, communications—build a tight claim file.
Be present for the adjuster. Share your evidence, compare estimates, and request supplements if needed.
Introduction
If a storm just tore shingles off your roof—or you found a mystery leak after last night’s wind and rain—you’re suddenly juggling tarps, contractors, and insurance lingo. It’s a lot. The goal of this guide is to help you cut through the noise and file a strong, well-documented roofing insurance claim that gets you fairly paid, with the least amount of friction.
Tip 1:
Don’t miss deadlines—and mitigate damage immediately
Why it matters
Most policies require prompt notice and that you protect the property from further damage. Missing either can hurt your claim—or give the insurer grounds to reduce payment.
What to do
Make it safe. If there’s active leaking or exposed decking, tarp the roof or board up openings.
Save receipts. Keep invoices for tarps, contractor emergency services, fans, dehumidifiers—these mitigation costs are often reimbursable.
Report the loss. Call your insurer’s claims line and get a claim number. Ask for the next steps and expected timelines.
Log the timeline. Jot down the date and time of the storm (or when you noticed damage), who you spoke with, and what was said.
Don’t throw anything away. Keep damaged shingles, flashing, or gutters until after inspection.
Pro move
When you report the claim, ask where to submit photos and invoices. Upload them early so they’re in the file before the adjuster visit.
Tip 2:
Understand your coverage—ACV vs RCV, exclusions, and deductibles
Not all roof damage is covered, and not all coverage pays the same way. Five areas to check on your Declarations Page and policy:
Covered perils vs. exclusions
Commonly covered: wind, hail, falling objects (tree limbs), sudden accidental damage.
Common exclusions: wear and tear, ongoing leaks, prior damage, poor installation.
Deductibles
You’ll see a standard deductible and sometimes special percentage deductibles for wind/hail/hurricane.
Example: a 2% wind deductible on a $400,000 Coverage A limit = $8,000 out-of-pocket before coverage applies.
ACV vs. RCV
ACV (Actual Cash Value): Pays depreciated value of the roof—less favorable.
RCV (Replacement Cost Value): Pays the full replacement cost in two parts:
ACV upfront, and
recoverable depreciation after you complete repairs and submit final invoices.
Endorsements you might have
Ordinance or Law / Code Upgrade: Helps cover building code upgrades (e.g., underlayment, ice & water shield).
Matching: Some policies or state rules address matching shingles across slopes. If only part is damaged, this matters.
Cosmetic damage language
Some policies exclude “cosmetic” hail dents on metal that don’t impair function. Your inspection should address functionality (e.g., bruised shingles, fractured mats, compromised seals).
Pro move
Make a one-page summary for yourself: coverage type, deductible(s), endorsements, and any roof age limits. You’ll refer to it throughout the claim.
Tip 3:
Get a qualified, independent inspection
(with photos, measurements, and a scope)
Why it matters
Your insurer will send an adjuster—but it helps to have your own, detailed roof report. This sets a baseline and ensures you’re not relying only on the insurer’s take.
Who to hire
A licensed roofing contractor experienced with insurance claims, or
A certified inspector or independent estimator (some use industry-standard estimating tools).
Avoid anyone pushing aggressive contracts or asking you to sign away benefits before inspection.
What the inspection should include
High-resolution photos: overviews + close-ups of each slope, vents, flashing, ridges, valleys, and gutters.
Damage map: where hail/wind hits were observed and how many per test square if applicable.
Moisture readings: note any interior water intrusion and damaged sheathing/insulation.
Measurements: total squares, pitch, and materials (shingle type, underlayment, ventilation).
Scope of work: repair vs. full replacement, with line items (tear-off, disposal, underlayment, drip edge, flashing, ridge cap, ventilation, deck repairs, permits).
Estimate: itemized, using a common pricing format your insurer will recognize.
Pro move
Ask for a photo report PDF and the native photo files. If a supplement is needed later, these originals can be critical.
Tip 4:
Build a bulletproof claim file—document, organize, and label
Treat your claim like a mini-project. Clear documentation wins claims. Use a cloud folder with these subfolders:
01_Initial_Photos (day of loss, exterior & interior)
02_Mitigation (tarp invoices, temporary repair receipts)
03_Inspection_Reports (PDFs + original photos)
04_Estimates (contractor estimate, any updates)
05_Insurance_Correspondence (letters, emails, claim notes)
06_Adjuster_Reports (initial + reinspection)
07_Invoices_Final (final roofer invoice, permit, lien waiver)
08_Proof_of_Repairs (after photos)
What to capture in photos
Wide shots of each slope + close-ups of each damage type.
Inside: ceilings, walls, attic, insulation if wet.
Gutters & downspouts: show granule loss and dents from hail if relevant.
Date-stamped images if your camera allows it.
Communication log (simple template)
Date/Time – Person – Role – Summary – Next steps
Ex: 06/18 9:10 AM – Taylor (Claims) – Filed claim, claim #12345, adjuster scheduled for 06/22.
Tip 5:
Meet the adjuster prepared—compare scopes and request supplements when needed
During the adjuster visit
Be present. Walk the property beforehand so you know your talking points.
Share your packet. Hand over your inspection, photos, and estimate.
Ask questions. “Can you show me why this slope is repairable vs. replaceable?”
Take notes. Capture anything the adjuster flags as excluded or “cosmetic.”
After the visit: compare line by line
Put the insurer’s estimate next to your contractor’s estimate. Check differences in:
Materials (underlayment type, drip edge, flashing, ridge vent)
Quantities (squares, waste factor, steep/pitch charges)
Code items (ice & water shield, starter course, ventilation)
Decking replacement allowances
Overhead & Profit (O&P)—often applicable when multiple trades are involved.
Supplements: totally normal
If needed items are missing, submit a supplement request with:
The contractor’s revised scope,
Annotated photos, and
Relevant code citations or manufacturer instructions.
Recoverable depreciation (RCV policies)
When work is complete, send the final invoice and completion photos to the insurer to release depreciation. Ask how to format it so they don’t kick it back.
Common pitfalls that slow (or sink) roof claims
Waiting too long to report the loss or mitigate damage.
No photos before tarping or temporary repairs.
Signing broad contracts or assignments of benefits without understanding them.
Accepting a repair when the roof’s age, condition, or matching requirements justify replacement.
Ignoring code upgrades or ventilation requirements.
Forgetting permits—which can delay depreciation release.
Not keeping a clean paper trail (missing invoices, unclear timelines).
The claim timeline: a simple playbook
Day 0–1 | Make it safe, tarp if needed, take photos, report claim, get claim number. |
Day 1–3 | Hire a qualified inspector/contractor. Gather policy docs. Start your claim folder. |
Day 3–10 | Complete inspection and submit report + estimate to the insurer. Adjuster visit. |
Day 10–20 | Receive insurer estimate. Compare scopes. Submit supplement if needed. |
Day 20–45 | Work approval. Schedule roof work. Pull permits. Complete repairs. |
After completion | Submit final invoice + completion photos. Request recoverable depreciation and any code upgrade reimbursements. Save lien waiver. |
Timelines vary—your insurer should provide target dates. Document any delays.
Practical templates you can copy
1) First notice call script
“Hi, I need to report roof damage from a recent storm. My name is [Name], policy number [#]. The damage was first noticed on [Date/Time]. I’ve tarped the area to prevent further damage and have photos and receipts. Can I have the claim number and the next steps? Where should I upload photos and invoices?”
2) Supplement email
Subject: Claim #[###] – Supplement Request – Roof Scope Hello [Adjuster Name], We’ve compared your estimate to our contractor’s scope. Please find attached: Revised estimate (items highlighted) Photo report (annotated) Relevant code citations/manufacturer requirements Key items: [list 3–5 concise differences]. Please confirm receipt and next steps for reinspection/approval. Thank you, [Your Name], [Phone]
3) Completion/depreciation release email
Subject: Claim #[###] – Final Invoice & Completion Photos Hello [Adjuster Name], Roof replacement is complete. Attached are: ☐ Final contractor invoice ☐ Permit and inspection sign-off ☐ Completion photos ☐ Lien waiver Please release recoverable depreciation and advise on any remaining documents needed. Thank you, [Your Name]
Frequently asked questions
Q1: Will my premium go up if I file a roof claim?
Possibly. Weather-related claims affect premiums differently by carrier and region. Balance potential increases against out-of-pocket costs and the need to protect your home’s value.
Q2: My roof is older. Can I still get a full replacement?
Maybe. Age can affect coverage and depreciation. Your inspection should address whether storm damage (a covered peril) rather than wear and tear caused the loss.
Q3: The insurer approved a repair, but my contractor says replace. Now what?
Submit a supplement with photos, the full scope, and any code or manufacturer requirements that support replacement.
Q4: What is recoverable depreciation?
On RCV policies, the insurer holds back part of the payment (depreciation) until you complete repairs. Send the final invoice and completion photos to get it released.
Q5: Do I need multiple estimates?
Not always. What you do need is one thorough, credible estimate that aligns with actual conditions and code.
Q6: Can I choose my own roofer?
Yes. You’re not obligated to use a preferred vendor. Choose a licensed, insured contractor with strong reviews and insurance claim experience.
Q7: Can I do the work myself?
You can, but reimbursement may be limited and depreciation harder to release without a professional invoice and permit sign-off.
Q8: What if new damage is discovered during tear-off?
That’s normal. Your contractor should document and submit a supplement for approval before proceeding with extra costs.
Q9: What is “matching”?
If new shingles won’t match undamaged areas, a full slope or entire roof may be needed for a uniform appearance—policy language and local rules vary.
Q10: How long do I have to file?
Policies require prompt notice; specific deadlines vary. Report quickly to protect your rights.
Simple homeowner checklist (print this)
☐ Report claim; get claim number
☐ Tarp/mitigate; save receipts
☐ Photos: exterior slopes, flashing, vents, gutters; interior leaks
☐ Get independent inspection + written estimate
☐ Read policy: perils, exclusions, deductibles, ACV vs RCV, endorsements
☐ Organize a claim folder (reports, estimates, emails, invoices)
☐ Attend adjuster visit; share your packet
☐ Compare estimates; request supplements with photos/citations
☐ Pull permits; complete work; get sign-off
☐ Submit final invoice & completion photos; request depreciation release
☐ Save lien waiver and final payment confirmation
Key terms you’ll hear (quick glossary)
ACV (Actual Cash Value) | Depreciated payout. |
RCV (Replacement Cost Value) | Full replacement paid in two parts (ACV + depreciation). |
Recoverable Depreciation | The holdback you get after repairs. |
Supplement | Request for additional payment for necessary items not in the original estimate. |
Proof of Loss | A sworn statement or documentation of the amount and scope of loss (insurer may request). |
Ordinance or Law Coverage | Pays for code-required upgrades. |
O&P (Overhead & Profit) | Additional percentage sometimes paid when multiple trades are needed. |
Matching | Requirements to ensure uniform appearance across roof sections. |
When to consider professional help
You’re facing a partial denial or a repair-only decision you believe is incorrect.
There’s a large gap between estimates and the insurer won’t budge.
Complex code issues or prior repairs complicate scope.
You’re overwhelmed and need someone to coordinate supplements and documentation.
Who to call: A reputable roofing contractor experienced with claims, an independent estimator, a public adjuster, or—if coverage disputes escalate—an attorney who handles property insurance matters. Vet credentials, references, and fee structures before you sign.
Final word: You don’t have to be an expert—just be organized
Strong roofing claims are built on speed, documentation, and clarity. Report promptly, stop further damage, get a credible inspection, keep tight records, and engage constructively with the adjuster. If something’s missing, supplement. If something’s unfair, escalate—with facts and photos.
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