How to get insurance to pay for roof replacement

Step-by-Step Process for Using Insurance in your Roof Replacement Project

Filing an insurance claim for a roof replacement can feel overwhelming, but the right approach can maximize your payout and ensure your home is fully protected. K&M Roofing and Construction handles the entire claims process beside you—from documenting damage to supplementing additional scope when necessary with your insurance provider—making it as stress-free as possible.

Here’s exactly what to do:

1. Schedule an inspection with your contractor to determine if a claim is necessary
2. Review your homeowners insurance policy
3. File your insurance claim & schedule an adjuster inspection; have your contractor present for the adjuster appointment to inspect for necessary scope of work
4. Work with your roofer to supplement missing line items if necessary
5. Review the insurance estimate & start the roof replacement project
6. Final inspection & filing for the final insurance payout

Step 1: Schedule an inspection with your contractor to determine if a claim is necessary

An initial inspection from a trusted contractor can save you from filing a claim unnecessarily. A contractor can tell you if the damage to your home will support a claim, or if repairs are a better option. If the damage does support a claim, your contractor can collect sufficient evidence of damage. One of the most common reasons insurance claims get denied or underpaid is insufficient documentation. Insurance companies require detailed proof that storm damage occurred so they can determine your coverage. Missing or unclear evidence can lead to lower payouts or outright denials.

P.S. Instead of handling this yourself, you can call us and we’ll take care of everything for you. We offer FREE, same-day or next-day inspections, ensuring your claim is properly documented from the start. 

Step 2: Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

Before filing a claim, it’s crucial to understand your coverage so you know what to expect for your coverage.

Key Details to Check in Your Policy:

• Covered Perils – Make sure your policy includes coverage for storm-related damage, such as hail, wind, and fallen debris.
• Policy Type – Determine whether you have an Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policy.
  
  • RCV covers full roof replacement costs. Payments on claims  are typically paid out in two payments, the ACV amount is paid upfront and the depreciation amount is released when the scope of work is completed. 
  • ACV factors in depreciation, which means you will receive one upfront payment for the ACV amount, and depreciation is not paid out. 
• Filing Deadlines – Most policies require claims to be filed within 12 months after the storm event. So don't wait because your coverage might end and you'll be left with the financial responsibility for your repairs or replacement.

Not Sure About Your Policy? Call your agent to determine what your policy and coverages are. Here's what we can also do to help:

• Identify potential coverage gaps before you file a claim.
• Ensure you understand the impact dates so you can file within the required deadlines to avoid denial.

Step 3: File Your Insurance Claim & Schedule an Adjuster Inspection

Once the damage is documented, and it is confirmed that you have a valid claim, the next step is to file with your insurance company. 

How to File a Claim

• Contact your insurance provider to report the damage.
• Provide key details, such as the date of the storm and the extent of the damage. We’re happy to help you with this process since we inspected the property and understand the extent of damage.
• Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to inspect the property.

What Happens Next?

• Adjuster Inspection: The insurance adjuster will visit your home to assess the damage. 
• K&M Roofing and Construction On-Site Representation: We meet with the adjuster to ensure all damage is documented and that nothing is overlooked. Having us here is essential to ensuring all parties involved see and understand the full scope of work to be performed. We represent you, the homeowner. 
• Negotiation for Full Coverage: If the adjuster’s initial report underestimates the damage, we advocate on your behalf to secure the full amount needed for a proper roof replacement, and the funds necessary to perform all trades included. 

Why This Matters: Without proper representation, claims are often undervalued. K&M Roofing and Construction ensures you receive a fair and accurate assessment of the full scope of work.

Step 4: Work With Your Roofer to Supplement Missing Line Items

Insurance companies frequently underpay claims by leaving out necessary repairs and code-required upgrades. Our team at K&M Roofing and Construction ensures that all required repairs are included in your insurance settlement.

Common Repairs Insurance Companies Often Miss:

• Flashing Replacement – Protects against water intrusion and is required for proper installation.
• Drip Edge Installation – A code requirement that prevents water from seeping under shingles.
• Ventilation & Underlayment Upgrades – Ensures your new roof meets current building codes and extends its lifespan.

How K&M Roofing and Construction Ensures Full Coverage:

• We review the insurance estimate to identify missing line items.
• We submit supplement requests to correct any underpayments.
• We handle all communication with the insurance company, so you don’t have to.

Why This Matters: Many homeowners are left either paying out-of-pocket or foregoing items that should have been covered. We negotiate directly with your insurance company to make sure your claim includes every necessary repair.

Step 5: Review the insurance estimate & start the roof replacement project

What Happens Before Work Begins:

• Review Your Insurance Settlement – We go over the insurance paperwork with you to ensure every needed repair is included.
• Negotiate Additional Coverage (If Necessary) – If the insurance estimate is insufficient, we advocate for a revised settlement before work starts.

Roof Replacement Process:

• We use high-quality materials that meet all local building codes. 
• No hidden costs – Your insurance covers the full replacement (minus your deductible). Paying your deductible is required according to the law. 
• Most roof replacements are completed within 1-2 days.

Pro Tip: If you want premium upgrades (such as Class 4 impact-resistant shingles), insurance covers the standard replacement, and you only pay the difference. Here at K&M Roofing and Construction, we typically install Atlas Class 3 shingles along with a full Atlas system. This allows you, the homeowner, to submit Class 3 documentation to your insurance carrier for a discount on your homeowner’s insurance policy for a Class 3 rated roof, along with a full manufacturer's warranty.

Step 6: Final Inspection & collecting the Final Insurance Payout

Once your new roof is installed, K&M Roofing and Construction ensures that all final paperwork is submitted to your insurance provider for the final payout.

Final Steps:

• We submit a completion report and final invoice to your insurance company.
• We ensure that insurance releases the final payment (recoverable depreciation).
• We provide a workmanship and materials warranty, giving you long-term protection and peace of mind.

How We Ensure You Get the Full Payout:

• Insurance companies often hold back part of the payment (recoverable depreciation) until proof of work completion is submitted.
• We handle all required documentation to guarantee the final payment is released.

Types of Roof Damage Typically Covered by Insurance

Most homeowners' insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage caused by external forces. If your roof was damaged due to an uncontrollable event, your insurance will likely cover some or all of the costs for a roof replacement.

• Hailstorms – Hail can knock protective granules off shingles, crack tiles, and dent metal roofing, reducing your roof’s ability to protect your home.
• Windstorms – High winds can tear shingles off your roof, lift roofing materials, and cause structural damage.
• Fallen Trees & Debris – If a tree or large branch falls and damages your roof, your insurance should cover repairs or replacement.
• Fire & Lightning Strikes – If fire or lightning destroys your roof, your insurance provider will likely pay for a full replacement.

Important Note: Insurance companies classify these events as “Acts of God” or sudden damage, meaning they are typically covered under your policy.

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ACV vs. RCV: How Your Insurance Pays for a New Roof

Not all homeowners' insurance policies provide full coverage for a roof replacement. The amount your insurance pays depends on whether you have an Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policy.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV) Policy – Best Coverage

• Your insurance covers the full cost of replacing your roof with similar materials.
• You receive two payments:
  
  • The first check covers the depreciated value of your roof.
  • The second check (recoverable depreciation) is sent after the new roof is installed.
• You only pay your deductible—insurance covers the rest.

Example: If your new roof costs $15,000, insurance first pays $7,500 and holds back $7,500 in depreciation. Once the work is completed, you receive the remaining $7,500, meaning your only out-of-pocket cost is your deductible.

Actual Cash Value (ACV) Policy – Limited Coverage

• Insurance only pays for what your roof is worth today, factoring in depreciation.
• Older roofs receive less money because insurance subtracts for wear and tear.
• You are responsible for paying the remaining cost out of pocket.

Example: If your 15-year-old roof originally cost $15,000, but depreciation reduces its value to $6,000, insurance will only pay $6,000 minus your deductible. You must cover the remaining $9,000 yourself.

Important: Many homeowners don’t realize they have an ACV policy until they file a claim and receive a lower payout than expected. Ask your insurance agent which type of policy you have so you’re prepared. 

Signs of Storm Damage That Could Qualify for an Insurance Claim

Insurance companies require clear proof that a storm caused significant damage before approving a roof replacement claim. While some damage is obvious, others can be subtle but still qualify for insurance coverage. Insurance companies also have minimum requirements of damage to support a full roof replacement. This is why it’s important to have your contractor inspect your roof prior to filing a claim. If there isn’t enough damage to support a replacement, we can guide you through repairs instead. 

Exterior Signs of Storm Damage

• Missing, Creased, or Broken Shingles – High winds can tear shingles off or cause them to curl, bend, or lift, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks.
• Granule Loss & Dented Metal Roofing – Hail can strip protective granules from shingles, making them more prone to future damage. Dents in metal roofing, vents, and flashing are strong indicators of hail impact.
• Dented Gutters, Siding, or AC Units – If hail or wind has left dents in your gutters, downspouts, siding, or outdoor air conditioning units, it’s likely your roof also sustained damage.

Interior Signs of Roof Damage

• Water Stains on Ceilings – Yellow or brown spots on your ceiling are a sign that water has seeped through the roof.
• Peeling Paint or Warped Drywall – Moisture damage from a leaking roof can cause bubbling paint, sagging drywall, or soft spots on walls and ceilings.
• Mold or Mildew Growth – Persistent moisture in the attic or along ceiling corners often indicates a slow roof leak, which can worsen over time.

Why It Matters: Even if exterior damage isn’t visible, interior leaks provide strong proof that your roof’s structure has been compromised.

What to Do If You Spot Storm Damage

• Take clear, high-resolution photos of all damage, including your roof, gutters, siding, and ceilings. You can also call us so we can take a higher quantity and quality of photos and go to places that we know to look for common damage so that you get the full coverage you deserve.
• Check your neighborhood—if neighbors are replacing their roofs, yours may have damage too.
• Schedule a free professional inspection from a reputable roofing contractor to confirm the extent of the damage.

Don’t Wait! Insurance claims often have strict filing deadlines. If you suspect storm damage, call K&M Roofing and Construction at (903) 870-6748 for a free roof inspection today!