How a Roof Insurance Claim Works in Texas
A step-by-step look at filing a roof claim after a storm, what your coverage type means for the payout, and the traps to avoid, using guidance from the Texas Department of Insurance.
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The claim, step by step
In short: report quickly, document everything, protect the home from more damage, be there for the adjuster and keep every receipt and name. Your coverage type decides how the payout works.
- Report the damage. File as soon as you can. Insurance company phone numbers can be found online, or you can call the Texas Department of Insurance at 800-252-3439.
- Document everything. Take pictures and video, list damage inside and outside, and keep damaged items until your company tells you otherwise.
- Prevent more damage. Remove standing water, cover holes and broken windows, and save all receipts. Your policy may pay for temporary repairs.
- Be there for the adjuster. Be available so the adjuster sees everything, and keep a list of everyone you talk to.
- Ask about living expenses. If you cannot stay in your house, most policies cover some related expenses. Keep receipts.
Source: Texas Department of Insurance: Hail damage to your home or car? What to do next.
What your coverage type means for the payout
| Coverage type | How it pays |
|---|---|
| Replacement cost | Up to the full amount needed to repair the roof, usually in two checks: a partial payment first and the rest after repairs have started |
| Actual cash value | Less if the roof is older or showing wear |
| No coverage for a poor roof | If a roof is in poor condition, the company might not cover it at all |
The Texas Department of Insurance also says to ask whether your wind and hail deductible differs from your other deductibles. If so, you may pay more out of pocket after a storm.
Source: Texas Department of Insurance: Insurance and your roof.
Contractor traps that can cost you the claim
- Waived deductible. A contractor who offers to waive or absorb your deductible is breaking Texas law. Your insurer may ask for proof you paid it.
- Assignment language. Do not sign a contract saying you agree to the repairs for the value of the insurance proceeds, because the contractor gets every penny of your payment.
- Paperwork labeled as a formality. The Texas Department of Insurance says scammers may describe a contract as paperwork or a release just to get onto your roof.
- Big payments up front. Do not pay in full up front and do not make the final payment until the work is done.
Report suspected fraud to the Texas Department of Insurance. For deductible offers, the Texas Department of Insurance also lists the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508.
Sources: Texas Department of Insurance: How to avoid contracting scams; Texas Department of Insurance: Hail damage to your home or car? What to do next.
Roof claim questions
Who do I call to start a roof claim?
Your insurance company or agent. If you need contact details, the Texas Department of Insurance can help at 800-252-3439.
Do I have to keep the damaged materials?
Do not throw damaged items away until your insurance company tells you. The Texas Department of Insurance gives this advice for hail and wind damage.
When do I get paid on a roof claim?
With replacement cost coverage, the Texas Department of Insurance says the company pays with two checks. The first is a partial payment, and the rest comes after you have started repairs.
Is it okay to make repairs before the adjuster comes?
Make only the temporary repairs needed to stop more damage, such as covering holes, and keep the receipts. Ask your insurer before doing anything permanent.
Who can I report a contractor to?
The Texas Department of Insurance takes fraud reports. For a contractor who offers to waive a deductible, the Texas Department of Insurance also lists the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508.
Need a roofing company to look at the damage? Storm and hail roof damage explains what happens next, and hiring a roofer in Texas covers contracts and bids.
Roof damage in Humble? Call now.
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