How To File a Roof Insurance Claim?

How Do You Proceed If Your Roof Is Damaged? Here’s How to Prevent Thousands of Dollars in Costly Errors

Imagine that your roof is leaking after a big hailstorm. When you’re stressed and unsure of what to do next, you ask yourself, “Will my insurance even cover this?” Stop calling your insurance company.  Due to either waiting too long or filing their claims incorrectly, the majority of homeowners lose out on thousands of dollars in roof replacement insurance support. Additionally, they make 3 critical mistakes that result in policy cancellations, lowball payouts, or claim denials.

In this article, we’ll break down how to file a roof insurance claim step by step, what to expect from the roof insurance claim process, and how to increase your chances of being approved—all without using legal or specialized language.

1. Know What Your Insurance Covers (Before You File)

Before making any moves, check your homeowner’s insurance policy. Most policies cover damage from events like hail, wind, or fallen trees, but coverage can vary.

• Does home insurance cover roof leaks? Yes—if the leak was caused by a covered event, like a storm.

• My roof is leaking. Is it covered by insurance? If it’s due to age or neglect, probably not. If it’s from hail or wind, yes—likely covered.

• Will insurance cover a 20-year-old roof? (unless damage is sudden and accidental)

Remember: insurance doesn’t cover wear and tear. In many cases, no, but it may still pay something based on its depreciated value.

2. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection for Insurance

One of the biggest mistakes people make is filing a claim before knowing the real damage. That’s risky.

Always contact a trusted roofer to perform a roof inspection for insurance. They’ll take pictures, or videos, write a report, and help you understand whether the damage is worth filing.

Why it matters:

• Roofing pros know what insurance adjusters look for.

• They’ll identify hail damage roof insurance claim opportunities you might miss.

• They help answer the popular question: Do I contact insurance first, or contact a roofing company? The best move is to contact a roofing company near you first, so you’re prepared.

3. File the Roof Insurance Claim Promptly

Once you have the inspection report, file your claim fast. Most insurance companies give you 12–24 months after the event, but the sooner, the better.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Policy number

• Date of the storm/damage

• Description of what happened

• Photos from the inspection

• Any estimates from your roofing contractor

This starts the roof insurance claim process, and your insurance company will schedule an adjuster to inspect your roof.

4. Meet the Adjuster With Your Roofer (If Possible)

When the insurance adjuster comes, your roofer should be there too. This ensures that no damage is overlooked or dismissed.

• Your roofer can point out hidden hail damage, missing shingles, or leaks.

• Adjusters may not have roofing experience, so your contractor’s input helps.

This step is critical if you want to get insurance to pay for roof replacement instead of just minor repairs.

5. Know What Payout to Expect

Once the claim is approved, the insurance company will offer a payout. This varies based on your policy.

• The average insurance payout for hail damage roof is between $8,000 and $15,000, but it can be higher depending on your roof type and size.

• If your policy includes “replacement cost value,” you’ll receive full coverage for a new roof (minus deductible).

• If it’s “actual cash value,” you’ll get a reduced amount based on roof age.

6. Roof Replacement: Choose Wisely

After approval, it’s time for action. Work with your chosen contractor (ideally the one who did your inspection) to move forward with the replacement.

This is your chance to upgrade:

• Switch to more durable materials.

• Consider roof types for insurance benefits. For example, metal roofs and impact-resistant shingles often lower premiums.

Ask your contractor for an estimate, timeline, and warranty details.

7. Keep Records of Everything

From emails and calls to invoices and photos—keep it all. Insurance disputes can happen, and your records protect you.

• Save copies of the roof insurance claim and inspection report.

• Take “before” and “after” photos.

• Hold onto warranties from the roof replacement insurance job.

Pro Tip: Avoid These Common Mistakes

❌ Don’t wait too long to report damage.
❌ Don’t attempt DIY repairs before inspection.
❌ Don’t accept the first offer without review.
❌ Don’t ignore fine print—know your coverage.

FAQs

How do I file a roof insurance claim?

Start by scheduling a professional roof inspection, then contact your insurance with evidence. Work with your roofer during the adjuster visit.

Will insurance cover a 20-year-old roof?

It depends. Many policies cover only the depreciated value of older roofs. Full coverage is less likely unless your policy includes replacement cost value.

Do I contact insurance first or a roofer?

Contact a roofing company first. They’ll inspect your roof, document damage, and guide you through the claim process.

What is the average insurance payout for hail damage?

The average payout ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on roof size, materials, and policy type.

Final Thoughts

Filing a roof insurance claim doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking the right steps, starting with a professional inspection, you’ll protect your home, save money, and avoid common traps.

Whether you’re dealing with a hail damage roof insurance claim, wondering “will insurance cover a 20-year-old roof?” or trying to understand how to get insurance to pay for roof replacement, the right help makes all the difference.

Need Expert Help with Your Roof Claim?

We’re here to take the pressure off your shoulders. Our experienced roofing specialists handle everything from roof inspection for insurance to claim support and high-quality repairs or replacements.

If your roof is leaking or was recently hit by hail or wind, don’t wait. Contact us today, and let’s protect your home the right way.