Roof Insurance Claim in Texas

Initial Claim Filing Process

When roof damage occurs in Texas, contact your insurance company immediately to report the claim. Most insurers offer 24/7 claim reporting through phone lines, mobile apps, or online portals. Document the damage with photos and videos from multiple angles, including ground-level shots and close-ups if safely accessible.

Texas law requires insurers to acknowledge your claim within 15 days and begin an investigation within 30 days of receiving notice. Keep detailed records of all communications, including claim numbers, adjuster names, and conversation dates. This documentation becomes crucial if disputes arise later in the process.

Insurance Adjuster Inspection

Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to inspect the roof damage, typically scheduling this within a few days to a week after filing. The adjuster will examine the roof for storm damage, assess the age and condition of roofing materials, and determine if the damage aligns with recent weather events.

Be present during this inspection to point out all damaged areas and ask questions about the assessment process. Take notes and photos during the adjuster's visit, as their initial evaluation significantly impacts your settlement amount. If extensive damage is found, the adjuster may recommend temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

Getting Independent Assessments

Consider hiring a licensed roofing contractor for an independent assessment before or after the adjuster's visit. Contractors often identify damage that adjusters might miss and can provide detailed repair estimates. However, be cautious of contractors who offer to "work with your insurance" or ask you to sign an assignment of benefits forms.

Some homeowners also hire public adjusters who work on their behalf rather than the insurance company's. Public adjusters typically charge 10-15% of the settlement but can often increase claim payouts, especially for complex or disputed claims.

Settlement and Repair Process

After completing their investigation, your insurance company will provide a settlement estimate detailing covered damages minus your deductible. Texas insurers must pay undisputed portions of claims within five business days of reaching an agreement on settlement amounts.

Many policies use Actual Cash Value (ACV) initially, paying depreciated value upfront and releasing Replacement Cost Value (RCV) upon completion of repairs. This recoverable depreciation can be substantial, so ensure you understand your policy's payment structure.

Texas-Specific Considerations

Texas has strong consumer protection laws for roof claims. Insurers cannot non-renew policies solely based on weather-related claims, and they must provide written justification for claim denials. Hail damage is particularly common in Texas and generally well-covered under standard policies.

Be aware that some Texas insurers exclude cosmetic damage from hail, meaning they won't pay for roof replacement if the damage is purely aesthetic and doesn't affect functionality. Review your policy language carefully to understand these limitations and consider supplemental coverage if cosmetic damage coverage is important to you.