My roof insurance claim was denied. What can I do?
Start by reading the denial letter to find the reason. Depending on the reason, you can ask for a reinspection, provide more documentation of the damage or, if you disagree about the amount, use the appraisal clause in your policy. A denial is not always final.
Read the denial letter
Insurance companies deny roof claims for different reasons, such as wear and tear, no damage found, cosmetic damage only or damage reported too late. The reason in the letter tells you what information the insurance company needs to see.
Make sure your response addresses the reason given in the letter.
Ask for a reinspection
You can ask your insurance company to send an adjuster to inspect the roof again. After a large storm, adjusters are often very busy, and a second inspection can find damage the first one missed.
It helps to have a roofing contractor there for the reinspection. Reveles Roofing can inspect the damage, write up a detailed report and meet with your claims adjuster.
Know what a supplement is
Sometimes a claim is approved, but the estimate leaves out items needed to complete the job, such as drip edge, ridge cap, pipe boots or extra decking. A supplement is a request to add those items to the claim, and it is a normal part of the process.
The appraisal clause
Most Texas homeowners policies include an appraisal clause. If you and your insurance company disagree on the amount of the loss, either side can request an appraisal. Each side chooses an appraiser, the two appraisers choose an umpire, and an agreement between any two of the three sets the amount.
Appraisal decides the amount of the loss. It does not decide whether the loss is covered.
Keep track of deadlines
Texas policies usually require you to report a claim within a certain time after the date of loss. Texas law also sets deadlines for insurance companies to acknowledge claims, make decisions and send payment.
Keep a dated record of every call, letter and email with your insurance company.
Roofers and public adjusters
In Texas, negotiating a claim on your behalf is the job of a licensed public adjuster. A roofing contractor can inspect and document the damage, meet with your adjuster and provide the information needed to repair your roof.
Related questions
Can I appeal a denied roof claim?
Yes. You can request a reinspection, provide photos and other documentation, and use the appraisal clause in your policy if you disagree about the amount of the loss.
Does the Texas Department of Insurance help?
You can file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance if you believe your claim is being handled unfairly. The department does not decide coverage disputes for you.
Will appealing get my policy canceled?
Ask your insurance agent. Renewal decisions depend on your carrier, your claim history and the age of your roof.
