How Does an Insurance Claim for a New Roof Work? A Homeowner’s Guide

Published February 17, 2025

How Does an Insurance Claim for a New Roof Work? A Homeowner’s Guide

Discovering that your roof needs to be replaced can be stressful—especially when you’re not sure how the insurance process works. The good news? If your roof was damaged due to a covered event, like a storm or hail, your homeowners insurance may help cover the cost of replacement. Understanding how the insurance claim process works can make the experience much smoother and ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

Let’s break it down step by step so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

After a major storm or weather event, take a good look at your roof from the ground. If you notice missing shingles, dents from hail, or leaks inside your home, it’s time to take action. Even if you don’t see obvious signs of damage, it’s a good idea to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof. Some damage isn’t visible right away, and waiting too long could make it harder to file a claim.

Step 2: Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

Not all roof damage is covered by insurance, so it’s important to understand what your policy includes. Most policies cover damage caused by sudden and unavoidable events, like storms, hail, or falling trees. However, they typically don’t cover general wear and tear or damage due to lack of maintenance.

If you’re unsure what’s covered, reach out to your insurance company or check your policy for details on roof coverage, deductibles, and any exclusions.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve confirmed there’s damage, it’s time to file a claim. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the issue. They’ll guide you through the process and let you know what information they need. Be prepared to provide details about the damage, when the incident occurred, and any documentation you have, such as photos or videos.

Step 4: Schedule an Insurance Adjuster Inspection

After filing your claim, your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Their job is to assess whether the damage is covered under your policy and determine how much the insurance company will pay for repairs or replacement.

It’s a good idea to have your roofing contractor present during this inspection. A professional roofer can advocate for you, point out damage the adjuster might miss, and ensure you get a fair assessment.

Step 5: Review the Insurance Estimate

Once the adjuster completes their inspection, your insurance company will provide an estimate outlining how much they’re willing to pay for the roof replacement. This estimate will factor in your deductible, depreciation, and any applicable coverage limits.

If you disagree with their assessment—maybe they missed some damage or underestimated the cost—you can request a second inspection or provide additional documentation to support your claim. This is another area where a trusted roofing contractor can help by providing their own estimate and advocating for a fair settlement.

Step 6: Roof Replacement & Payment Process

Once your claim is approved, you’ll need to choose a roofing contractor to complete the work. Be sure to work with a reputable, licensed contractor who has experience handling insurance claims.

Most insurance companies pay out claims in two stages. The first payment, called the ACV (Actual Cash Value) payment, is issued upfront and reflects the current value of your roof (minus depreciation and your deductible). Once the work is completed, your contractor will submit proof to the insurance company, and you’ll receive the second payment, known as the RCV (Replacement Cost Value) payment, which covers the remaining cost of the roof replacement.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Claims Process

• Act fast! Most insurance policies have time limits for filing claims, so don’t delay after discovering damage.
• Keep records. Take plenty of photos and save all receipts, estimates, and communication with your insurance company.
• Work with professionals. Choose a roofing contractor who understands insurance claims and can help guide you through the process.
• Beware of storm chasers. After major storms, some out-of-town contractors may show up offering quick fixes. Always verify credentials before signing any contracts.

Need Help with a Roof Insurance Claim? We’ve Got You Covered!

Navigating the insurance process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Panthers Construction, we have years of experience helping homeowners with roof inspections, insurance claims, and high-quality roof replacements. If you think your roof has been damaged, contact us today for a free inspection—we’ll work with you every step of the way to make sure you get the coverage and service you deserve!