5 steps to handle a denied roof insurance claim

By Mohammed Abdalla, Good Faith Energy. 

Understanding your insurance policy and appealing with proper documentation can help secure the coverage you need. 

Few things catch homeowners as equally off guard as unexpected roof damage. Whether it’s a surprise leak after heavy rain or debris from a passing storm, repairs can be both stressful and expensive. Home insurance is meant to help with those unplanned costs, but what happens when a claim is denied? Unfortunately, roof insurance claim denials are more common than many realize, often leaving homeowners unsure of what to do next. 

A denied roof claim doesn’t have to be the end of the road. With the right documentation, persistence and professional guidance, it’s often possible to appeal the decision and recover the coverage you’re entitled to. At Good Faith Energy, we help homeowners understand their insurance options, gather the necessary evidence and advocate for fair claim outcomes. Knowing your rights — and the proper steps to take — can make the difference between paying out of pocket and getting the support your policy promises. 

Step 1: Go through your homeowner’s insurance policy 

Before you get frustrated, take the time to carefully read through your homeowners’ insurance policy. This should give you an idea of what is typically covered and what is not. Pay attention to details, such as any exclusions, that might be the cause of your claim being denied.  

Likewise, your home insurance policy should include information on how to initiate the appeal procedure. Confused about anything? It’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider and let them explain the details. 

Top reasons why insurance may be denied 

It’s not uncommon for insurance claims to be denied. In Texas, nearly 47% of homeowners’ insurance claims were closed without any payment. 

There are several instances when an insurance company may refuse to pay for the damage. These are the most common reasons: 

• Wear and tear: If your roof requires repairs due to normal aging, you’re unlikely to get reimbursed for the work. Remember that insurance companies cover accidental damage. 
• Excluded damage: Unfortunately, even unexpected roof damage isn’t always covered. For instance, repairs required due to floods or earthquakes may not be paid for, but this depends on your policy. 
• Poor maintenance: If your insurer detects you haven’t taken preventive action to avoid repairs, your claim might be denied. 
• Missed deadlines: One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when filing a claim is doing it too late. Remember that insurance policies have a strict timeframe. That’s why it’s critical not to wait too long; otherwise, your claim will be rejected. 
• Insufficient documentation: Failing to provide sufficient evidence (such as photos or reports) may result in your claim being refused. 

It’s no secret that roof repairs can be painful. An unexpected leak, a falling branch or sudden storm damage can take a serious toll on your roof and your wallet. Thankfully, there is a way to protect yourself from unanticipated expenses – home insurance. 

After you’ve filled out your claim and submitted all the paperwork, the only thing left is to wait patiently for your insurance company’s answer. But what to do if insurance denied a roof claim? Many homeowners assume there’s no other solution, but that’s not always true. You can still appeal and get the coverage you deserve. 

Step 2: Ask for an explanation 

Once you’ve received the denial, don’t panic yet. Remember that your insurance company must offer a written explanation for why that’s the case. If you haven’t seen anything yet, make sure to ask for it! 

Step 3: Find more evidence 

As mentioned before, your insurer may decline your claim if they feel there isn’t enough documentation. When making an appeal, make sure to gather any high-quality photos and videos you have of your roof before and after the damage. It’s also a good idea to find any old reports on your roof’s condition and get in touch with an independent roofer who can provide their opinion. 

Step 4: File your appeal 

Once you’ve completed the previous steps, it’s time to file an appeal. To do this, you’ll have to submit all the additional information you’ve gathered, provide an explanation of why you believe the decision should be changed and request another inspection of your roof. 

Remember that adjusters are only human — they can also make mistakes. That’s why it’s always worth getting another opinion. If your insurance company refuses to make another inspection, another option is to use the services of a public adjuster. They will assess your claim independently and advocate for your rights. Working with a public adjuster is especially useful when dealing with complex roof claims. 

Step 5: Ask for a supplement 

In some cases, your insurer might partially approve your claim. But what can you do if the money they offer is not enough to cover all the expenses of repairs? In this scenario, consider filing a supplement request. To do so, you’ll have to provide additional photos, videos or other evidence that proves the initial amount was not sufficient. 

Recap: What to do if insurance denied a roof claim 

Nothing hurts like a denied roof claim. Although home insurance is designed to relieve some of the stress that comes with dealing with home damage, sometimes filing a claim can be equally overwhelming. Nevertheless, it’s important to stay proactive and not give up at the first sign of rejection.  

If you’ve taken all the steps but things still don’t go your way, remember you’re not alone. Seeking help from a trusted roofing contractor can make all the difference. At Good Faith Energy, our team is ready to guide you through the process and ensure your roof gets the care it deserves. Contact us today for more information. 

Original article source: Good Faith Energy