🌀 Will Insurance Cover My Roof Replacement After a Storm?
Here’s What Florida Homeowners Need to Know Before Filing a Claim
If your home just weathered a storm and you’re seeing shingle debris, water stains, or missing tiles, you’re probably asking:
“Will my insurance pay for a roof replacement?”
The short answer? Yes—if the damage is caused by a covered peril and properly documented.
In this article, we’ll walk you through:
- What insurance typically covers
- What it won’t
- How to handle the claims process
- Tips to avoid getting denied
- When to call a roofer vs. your insurance adjuster
✅ When Insurance Does Cover Roof Replacement
Homeowner’s insurance is designed to cover sudden and accidental damage—not wear and tear.
You’re typically covered if your roof damage was caused by:
- Windstorms or hurricanes
- Hail
- Falling trees or debris
- Lightning
- Fire
📌 Example: If a hurricane rips shingles off your roof or wind-driven rain causes a leak—your insurer will likely pay for a repair or full replacement.
❌ When Insurance Won’t Cover Roof Damage
Your claim may be denied if the damage is caused by:
- Old age or general wear and tear
- Improper maintenance (e.g., clogged gutters)
- Pre-existing damage
- DIY repairs or unpermitted work
⚠️ Most Florida insurers won’t cover shingle roofs over 15 years old or tile/metal over 25 years unless you’ve had a recent inspection.
📝 How to File a Roof Insurance Claim in Florida (Step-by-Step)
1. Get a Roof Inspection First
Before calling your insurance company, contact a licensed roofing contractor (like TheBestRoofs.com) for a free storm damage inspection.
They’ll:
- Document the damage with photos
- Note the storm date
- Provide an estimate
- Help you understand if a claim is worth filing
2. File the Claim Promptly
Contact your insurer’s claims department and report the damage. Be ready to provide:
- Policy number
- Date/time of storm
- Photos or inspection report (if available)
- Description of the damage
⏳ Time matters: In Florida, you generally have 1 year from the date of the storm to file a claim (as of 2023 legislation).
3. Meet With the Adjuster
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage.
✅ Pro Tip: Have your roofer on-site during this meeting to ensure nothing gets missed.
4. Review the Scope of Work and Settlement Offer
Once your insurer approves the claim, you’ll receive a settlement estimate outlining what’s covered.
If approved for a full replacement, payment may be issued in multiple checks (ACV and depreciation).
💰 Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
|
Term |
What It Means |
|
ACV |
Payment for your roof’s current value (after depreciation) |
|
RCV |
Payment for full replacement cost—may require proof of completed work |
👉 Most policies in Florida are now ACV for older roofs, especially if they’re over 10–15 years old.
🛑 Why Roof Claims Get Denied (And How to Avoid It)
Common reasons insurance companies deny roof claims:
- “Damage is cosmetic only”
- “Roof has exceeded its expected lifespan”
- “No evidence of storm-related damage”
- “Improper installation or previous repairs”
✅ To avoid denial:
- Get an independent inspection
- Provide clear before/after photos
- Work with a roofer who knows insurance documentation
🔧 Can My Roofer Help With the Claim?
In Florida, roofers cannot negotiate with insurance companies unless they’re licensed public adjusters.
However, a reputable roofer can:
- Provide damage documentation
- Be present during the adjuster meeting
- Ensure your scope of work is accurate
- Handle emergency tarping or mitigation
📉 What If the Insurance Check Doesn’t Cover the Whole Roof?
If your insurance payout is too low:
- Request a supplement (if something was missed)
- Use the payout + financing to cover the gap
- Consider a reinspection or appraisal clause (if your policy allows)
✅ Final Thoughts: Know Before You File
Yes, insurance will often cover roof replacement after a storm—but only if you follow the right process, provide proper documentation, and act quickly.
Don’t wait until you have interior water damage or a denied claim to take action.
📞 Get a Free Roof Inspection Today
At TheBestRoofs.com, we help Florida homeowners:
✔️ Document storm damage professionally
✔️ Navigate the insurance claim process
✔️ Avoid common claim mistakes
✔️ Replace your roof affordably—fast
👉 Click here to schedule your free storm damage roof inspection