How to File a Roof Insurance Claim in Texas: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Discovering roof damage after a severe storm is stressful enough—navigating the insurance claims process shouldn't add to your burden. Unfortunately, many Central Texas homeowners leave thousands of dollars on the table by not properly documenting damage or understanding their coverage.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire roof insurance claim process in Texas, from the first 24 hours after storm damage through final settlement. Whether you're dealing with hail damage in Round Rock, wind damage in Austin, or fallen tree damage in Georgetown, this step-by-step approach will help you maximize your insurance recovery.

Need immediate help after storm damage? Our 24/7 emergency services are available now.

Understanding Your Texas Homeowners Insurance Coverage

Before diving into the claims process, it's critical to understand what your policy covers—and what it doesn't.

Standard Coverage Components

Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A):

• Covers the structure of your home, including the roof
• Typically replaces or repairs using 'like kind and quality' materials
• May be actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV)
• Deductible applies to roof damage claims

Other Structures (Coverage B):

• Covers detached structures (garage, shed, fence)
• Usually 10% of dwelling coverage amount
• Subject to same perils as main dwelling

Personal Property (Coverage C):

• Covers belongings damaged by roof leaks
• Important if roof leak damages interior items
• Subject to separate deductible in some policies

Additional Living Expenses (Coverage D):

• Pays for temporary housing if home is uninhabitable
• Covers hotel, food, and other living expenses
• Typically 20-30% of dwelling coverage amount

Types of Coverage: ACV vs. RCV

Actual Cash Value (ACV):

• Pays replacement cost minus depreciation
• Common on older roofs (15+ years)
• Results in lower payout
• You receive depreciated value upfront

Example: $15,000 roof repair, 10-year-old roof (50% depreciated)

• Insurance pays: $7,500 initially
• You pay: $7,500 + deductible

Replacement Cost Value (RCV):

• Pays full replacement cost without depreciation
• More expensive premium but better protection
• Paid in two stages: ACV first, depreciation after completion
• You receive full value eventually

Example: $15,000 roof repair

• Insurance pays: $7,500 initially (ACV)
• After completion: $7,500 recoverable depreciation
• You pay: Only your deductible

Common Deductibles in Texas

Percentage Deductibles (Most Common):

• 1% of dwelling coverage: Good for low-risk areas
• 2% of dwelling coverage: Standard for Central Texas
• 3-5% of dwelling coverage: Common in hail-prone areas

Example Calculation:

• Home insured for $300,000
• 2% deductible = $6,000 out-of-pocket
• $20,000 claim pays: $14,000 from insurance

Flat-Dollar Deductibles:

• $1,000-$2,500 fixed amount
• Becoming less common for wind/hail coverage
• Easier to budget and plan for

Wind/Hail Deductibles:

• Often separate, higher deductible
• 1-5% of dwelling coverage
• Only applies to wind and hail damage
• Other perils use standard deductible

What's Typically Covered

✅ Hail Damage:

• Dented or cracked shingles
• Granule loss
• Damaged flashing and vents
• Broken skylights

✅ Wind Damage:

• Missing or lifted shingles
• Torn underlayment
• Damaged ridge caps
• Debris impact

✅ Fallen Tree Damage:

• Tree removal (usually limited amount)
• Structural repairs
• Roof repairs
• Interior damage from water intrusion

✅ Water Damage:

• Interior damage from storm-related roof leak
• Mold remediation if promptly reported
• Damaged ceilings, walls, insulation

What's Usually NOT Covered

❌ Wear and Tear:

• Age-related deterioration
• Normal granule loss
• Curling from age
• Previous damage

❌ Maintenance Issues:

• Neglected repairs
• Clogged gutters causing damage
• Rotted wood from poor ventilation
• Deferred maintenance

❌ Pre-Existing Damage:

• Damage before policy effective date
• Known issues not reported
• Previous storm damage

❌ Cosmetic Damage:

• Purely aesthetic issues
• Mismatched colors (sometimes)
• Minor dents not affecting function

❌ Flood Damage:

• Rising water from ground level
• Requires separate flood policy
• FEMA flood insurance program

The First 24 Hours: Critical Steps After Storm Damage

The actions you take immediately after discovering damage can make or break your claim.

Step 1: Document the Storm Event (15 minutes)

Create a Storm File:

• Date and time of storm
• Type of storm (hail, wind, tornado)
• Weather service reports from weather.gov
• Local news coverage screenshots
• Hail size reports from neighbors or weather apps

Why This Matters: Insurance companies often dispute that damage occurred during a specific storm. Documentation proves the event happened.

Step 2: Prevent Further Damage (ASAP)

Immediate Actions:

1. Place buckets under active leaks
2. Move valuables away from wet areas
3. Take photos BEFORE moving anything
4. Cover broken windows or holes with tarps
5. Document all mitigation efforts with photos

Emergency Tarping:

• Call a reputable roofing company for emergency tarping
• Cost typically: $500-$2,500 depending on size
• Usually covered by insurance
• GET PHOTOS before and after tarping

⚠️ IMPORTANT: You have a duty to 'mitigate further damage.' Failing to tarp can result in claim denial for interior water damage.

Step 3: Conduct Initial Inspection (30 minutes)

Exterior Inspection (From Ground Level):

• Walk around home and photograph all sides of roof
• Look for missing/damaged shingles
• Note damaged gutters, vents, or flashing
• Check for dented garage doors, siding, windows
• Document any debris or tree damage

Interior Inspection:

• Check attic for water stains or leaks
• Inspect ceilings for stains, sagging, or wet spots
• Look at walls for water marks
• Document all interior damage with photos
• Note any damaged personal property

⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Never climb on your roof yourself. Leave professional inspection to licensed contractors and insurance adjusters.

Step 4: Take Comprehensive Photos (1 hour)

Photo Documentation Checklist:

Exterior:

• [ ] All four sides of home
• [ ] Close-ups of damaged shingles (from ground)
• [ ] Damaged gutters, downspouts
• [ ] Damaged vents, flashing, ridge caps
• [ ] Dented AC unit, garage door
• [ ] Comparison photos of undamaged sections
• [ ] Overall context shots showing whole house
• [ ] Property address visible in some photos

Interior:

• [ ] Water stains on ceiling
• [ ] Sagging or bubbling ceiling
• [ ] Water stains on walls
• [ ] Wet insulation in attic
• [ ] Damaged personal property
• [ ] Mold growth (if present)

Details:

• [ ] Date/time stamp enabled on camera
• [ ] Multiple angles of same damage
• [ ] Wide shots showing context
• [ ] Close-ups showing detail
• [ ] Reference objects for scale (coin, ruler)

📱 Pro Tip: Use your smartphone's location services to embed GPS coordinates in photos. This proves photos were taken at your property.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company (Day 1)

Before You Call:

• Locate your policy number
• Have storm date and details ready
• Prepare list of known damage
• Be ready to describe immediate needs

During the Call:

• Report the claim as soon as possible
• Be factual and accurate
• Don't speculate about damage extent
• Ask about emergency repair coverage
• Request immediate temporary repairs if needed
• Get claim number and adjuster name
• Ask about timeline for inspection

Record Everything:

• Claim number
• Date and time of call
• Representative name and ID
• Adjuster name and contact info
• Scheduled inspection date
• Next steps outlined

Step-by-Step: The Claims Process

Phase 1: Initial Claim Filing (Days 1-3)

What Happens:

1. Insurance assigns claim number
2. Claims adjuster is appointed
3. Inspection is scheduled (usually 3-7 days out)
4. You may receive initial claim forms

Your Actions:

• Complete all paperwork promptly
• Don't sign anything until you understand it
• Keep copies of everything
• Continue documenting any new damage discovered

Phase 2: Adjuster Inspection (Days 3-10)

Before the Inspection:

• Don't have roofing company repairs done yet
• You CAN have a roofing contractor present (recommended!)
• Compile all documentation in organized folder
• List all damage you've found
• Prepare questions for adjuster

During the Inspection:

• Be present and take notes
• Ask adjuster to point out damage they see
• Point out damage you've documented
• Ask if damage warrants full replacement or repairs
• Request copy of adjuster's notes and measurements
• Get business card and direct contact information

After the Inspection:

• Adjuster typically provides estimate in 3-5 business days
• Estimate shows scope of work and costs
• May include ACV (actual cash value) check
• Review carefully before accepting

Phase 3: Get Independent Assessment (Days 7-14)

Why You Need This: Insurance adjusters often miss damage or underestimate scope. Having a professional roofing contractor inspect provides:

• Second opinion on damage extent
• Detailed estimate to compare with insurance
• Identification of overlooked damage
• Expert testimony if you need to appeal

Choose Your Contractor Carefully: ✅ Licensed and insured in Texas ✅ Experience with insurance claims ✅ Will provide detailed written estimate ✅ Won't charge for initial inspection ✅ Doesn't require you to sign contract before seeing insurance estimate

❌ Avoid 'storm chasers' who:

• Go door-to-door immediately after storms
• Offer to 'handle everything' with insurance
• Want you to sign over insurance proceeds
• Promise to waive your deductible (illegal!)
• Have out-of-state license plates and no local office

Phase 4: Review Insurance Estimate (Days 10-15)

Compare Estimates Carefully:

Common Discrepancies:

1. Square Footage Measurement:

   • Insurance: 2,200 sf
   • Actual: 2,600 sf
   • Impact: 18% underpayment

2. Scope of Work:

   • Insurance: Replace damaged shingles only
   • Reality: Full replacement needed due to age/matching

3. Material Quality:

   • Insurance: Basic 3-tab shingles
   • Existing: Architectural shingles
   • You're owed 'like kind and quality'

4. Additional Items:

   • Missing: Underlayment replacement
   • Missing: Drip edge
   • Missing: Ventilation upgrades required by code
   • Missing: Permit fees

Line Item Review:

• Check quantities (squares of shingles, linear feet of ridge)
• Verify pricing is reasonable for Central Texas
• Confirm all damaged components are included
• Look for 'non-covered' line items (may be debatable)

Phase 5: Negotiate or Appeal (Days 15-30)

If Estimates Don't Match:

Option 1: Supplemental Claim

• Most common approach
• Submit contractor's estimate to adjuster
• Request re-inspection
• Adjuster writes 'supplement' for additional items
• Usually resolved in 1-2 weeks

How to Submit:

1. Email contractor estimate to adjuster
2. Include photos of items insurance missed
3. Write brief cover letter explaining differences
4. Request another inspection or phone discussion
5. Follow up in 48 hours if no response

Option 2: Formal Appeal

• Required if adjuster won't budge
• Submit written appeal to insurance company
• Include documentation supporting your position
• May involve manager or senior adjuster review
• Takes 15-30 days typically

Option 3: Hire Public Adjuster

• Independent professional who represents YOU
• Typically takes 10-15% of settlement
• Worth considering for large or complex claims
• Must be licensed in Texas

Option 4: Appraisal Clause

• Most policies include 'appraisal' provision
• Each side hires appraiser
• Appraisers hire neutral umpire
• Binding decision on damage value
• You pay for your appraiser, insurance pays theirs
• Usually $1,000-$3,000 total cost

Option 5: Department of Insurance Complaint

• File complaint with Texas Department of Insurance
• www.tdi.texas.gov
• TDI investigates and mediates
• Can result in fines against insurance company
• Free service to Texas residents

Phase 6: Receive Payment (Days 20-40)

Understanding Payment Structure:

Initial Payment (ACV):

• Actual Cash Value minus deductible
• Covers depreciated value
• You receive this before work starts
• Used to pay contractor deposit

Example:

• Total claim: $20,000
• Depreciation: $5,000
• Your deductible: $2,000
• Initial check: $13,000 ($20,000 - $5,000 - $2,000)

Final Payment (RCV):

• Recoverable depreciation
• Paid after work is completed
• Requires proof of completion
• Must submit final invoice

Continuing Example:

• After completion, submit invoice for $20,000
• Insurance pays: $5,000 (recoverable depreciation)
• Your total payment: $18,000
• Your out-of-pocket: $2,000 (deductible)

Mortgage Holder Considerations: If you have a mortgage, insurance checks typically:

• Made payable to you AND mortgage company
• Require mortgage company endorsement
• May be held in escrow by lender
• Released in stages as work progresses

Process:

1. Deposit check with your bank
2. Bank sends to mortgage company for endorsement
3. Mortgage company inspects work (sometimes)
4. Funds released to you (may be in draws)
5. You pay contractor

Phase 7: Complete Repairs (Days 30-60)

Selecting Your Contractor:

• Get 3 written estimates
• Verify license and insurance
• Check references and reviews
• Ensure they'll handle insurance communication
• Confirm warranty terms

During Repairs:

• Stay in communication with contractor
• Ask about surprises or additional damage found
• Take progress photos
• Report new issues to insurance immediately

Final Inspection:

• City building inspector approval (if permit required)
• Your walk-through with contractor
• Insurance final inspection (for RCV release)
• Document completion with photos

Phase 8: Submit for Recoverable Depreciation (Days 60-70)

Required Documentation:

• Final invoice from contractor (itemized)
• Proof of payment (cancelled checks, credit card receipts)
• Completion certificate from contractor
• Photos of completed work
• Building permit sign-off (if applicable)
• Lien waiver from contractor

Submit to Insurance:

• Send complete package to claims adjuster
• Follow up in one week if no response
• Typical processing time: 2-3 weeks
• Direct deposit or check mailed

Common Claim Denials and How to Avoid Them

Denial Reason #1: 'Pre-Existing Damage'

Insurance Says: 'This damage existed before the storm.'

How to Fight It:

• Show previous inspection reports (none found)
• Provide photos from before storm
• Get expert opinion letter from contractor
• Demonstrate damage pattern consistent with storm type
• Request specific evidence of pre-existing condition

Prevention:

• Document roof condition annually
• Keep inspection records
• Take photos before storm season

Denial Reason #2: 'Wear and Tear'

Insurance Says: 'This is normal aging, not storm damage.'

How to Fight It:

• Distinguish between age and impact damage
• Show sudden onset after specific storm
• Get professional opinion on cause of damage
• Point to damage patterns (hail dimples, wind tears)
• Reference policy language on covered perils

Prevention:

• Maintain roof properly (keep records)
• Report damage promptly after storms
• Don't wait years to file claim

Denial Reason #3: 'Not Enough Damage for Replacement'

Insurance Says: 'Only 30% damaged, repair is adequate.'

How to Fight It:

• Texas law requires matching materials
• Show discontinued materials (can't match)
• Get letter from manufacturer (material unavailable)
• Document aesthetic and functional mismatches
• Argue 'like kind and quality' policy language

Prevention:

• Document ALL damage, even minor
• Have professional count damaged shingles
• Take extensive photos

Denial Reason #4: 'Maintenance Issue'

Insurance Says: 'Damage due to lack of maintenance.'

How to Fight It:

• Show maintenance records (gutter cleaning, etc.)
• Demonstrate sudden failure after storm
• Get contractor statement on maintenance adequacy
• Distinguish maintenance from storm damage
• Show photos of well-maintained roof

Prevention:

• Keep ALL maintenance receipts
• Annual inspections with documentation
• Promptly repair minor issues

Denial Reason #5: 'Missed Reporting Deadline'

Insurance Says: 'You didn't report damage within required timeframe.'

How to Fight It:

• Show you didn't discover damage immediately
• Prove damage wasn't visible or accessible
• Document when damage became apparent
• Request exception based on circumstances
• File complaint with Texas DOI if unreasonable

Prevention:

• Report damage within days of storm
• Don't wait to see if it gets worse
• Annual inspections help catch hidden damage

Working with Roofing Contractors: Best Practices

Red Flags in Storm Chasers

❌ Door-to-Door After Storms

• Legitimate companies don't need to solicit
• Often no local presence or accountability
• May disappear before completing work

❌ 'We'll Waive Your Deductible'

• Illegal in Texas (insurance fraud)
• Company inflates claim to cover deductible
• You and contractor can face fraud charges

❌ 'Sign Now or Miss Out'

• Pressure tactics are warning sign
• Claims don't expire overnight
• Good contractors don't need urgency tricks

❌ 'We'll Handle Everything with Insurance'

• You can't legally sign over claim to contractor
• Insurance pays YOU, not contractor directly
• Contractor should support, not take over

❌ Requires Full Payment Upfront

• Legitimate contractors use progress payments
• Never pay in full before work starts
• Maximum 10-20% deposit is reasonable

What Good Contractors Do

✅ Provide Free Inspection

• No obligation to use them
• Detailed written estimate
• Photos of all damage
• Explanation of findings

✅ Attend Insurance Inspection

• Point out damage to adjuster
• Ensure nothing is missed
• Provide expert testimony
• Answer technical questions

✅ Write Supplements When Needed

• Document additional damage found
• Submit to insurance with photos
• Follow up until approved
• Keep you informed throughout

✅ Offer Financing Options

• Help you cover deductible
• Partner with legitimate lenders
• Transparent terms and rates
• Never pressure you into financing

✅ Provide Comprehensive Warranty

• Labor warranty (5-10 years minimum)
• Material warranty (manufacturer)
• Written warranty certificate
• Service commitment after completion

Texas-Specific Insurance Regulations

Prompt Payment Laws

Texas Insurance Code Chapter 542:

• Insurance must acknowledge claim within 15 days
• Must begin investigation promptly
• Must accept or deny within 15 business days after receiving all materials
• Must pay accepted claim within 5 business days
• Penalties for delays without good cause

Matching Requirements

'Reasonably Uniform Appearance' Standard:

• Insurance must pay for matching materials when exact match unavailable
• Applies to visible siding, roofing, materials
• Can't force you to accept mismatched roof
• May require replacement of undamaged sections to achieve match

Unfair Claim Practices

Texas Prohibits:

• Misrepresenting policy provisions
• Failing to promptly investigate
• Delaying claim without reason
• Low-ball offers knowing they're inadequate
• Requiring unnecessary documentation
• Failing to explain denial reasons

Your Rights:

• File complaint with Texas DOI
• Sue for violations (bad faith claim)
• Recover actual damages plus penalties
• Attorney fees if you prevail

Maximizing Your Insurance Recovery

Documentation Tips

Create a Claim Binder:

• Insurance policy (full copy)
• All correspondence (emails, letters)
• Photos organized by date and location
• Contractor estimates
• Adjuster reports
• Payment records
• Timeline of events

Take Video Walkthroughs:

• More comprehensive than photos
• Narrate what you're seeing
• Show scale and context
• Document before, during, after

Keep Detailed Notes:

• Date, time, person spoken to
• Summary of conversation
• Promises or commitments made
• Follow-up actions needed

Negotiation Strategies

Don't Accept First Offer:

• Initial estimates often incomplete
• Adjusters may miss damage
• Reasonable to request re-inspection
• Professional estimate gives leverage

Be Professional and Persistent:

• Courteous but firm communication
• Follow up regularly
• Escalate to supervisor if needed
• Document all interactions

Know Your Policy:

• Read and understand coverage
• Reference specific policy language
• Ask questions about exclusions
• Don't assume anything

Get Everything in Writing:

• Email confirmations
• Written estimates and supplements
• Denial letters with specific reasons
• Settlement agreements

When to Hire Help

Consider Public Adjuster If:

• Claim is large (over $50,000)
• Insurance denied claim you believe is valid
• You don't have time to manage process
• Claim is complex (multiple buildings, business)
• You're uncomfortable negotiating

Consider Attorney If:

• Insurance acting in bad faith
• Claim wrongfully denied
• Delays are unreasonable and damaging you
• Amount in dispute is substantial
• You've exhausted other options

Costs:

• Public adjuster: 10-15% of settlement
• Attorney: Contingency (30-40%) or hourly ($200-$400/hr)
• Usually only makes sense for disputes over $25,000+

Central Texas Storm Patterns & Timing

Peak Hail Season (March-June)

Highest Risk Months:

• April and May see most severe hail
• Central Texas 'Hail Alley' includes Round Rock, Georgetown, Austin
• Golf ball to baseball-sized hail common
• Multiple severe storms per season typical

Post-Storm Actions:

• File claim within days
• Expect 2-6 week backlog on inspections
• Many contractors booked out weeks
• Material shortages possible after major event

Hurricane Season (June-November)

Wind and Water Risks:

• Hurricane remnants bring heavy rain and wind
• Flash flooding common
• Tree damage from saturated soil and wind

Insurance Considerations:

• Wind coverage through homeowners policy
• Flood requires separate policy (FEMA)
• Document water source (roof vs. ground)

Winter Freezes (December-February)

Ice Damage:

• Ice dams on poorly ventilated roofs
• Freeze-thaw cycles damage flashing
• Tree limb failures from ice weight

Claim Timing:

• Damage may not appear until spring
• Document date of freeze event
• Report as soon as damage discovered

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a roof insurance claim in Texas?

Most Texas homeowners policies require you to report damage 'promptly' or 'as soon as possible'—typically interpreted as within a reasonable time after discovery. However:

• Report within days of storm for best results
• Most policies allow claims up to 1 year from loss date
• Hidden damage discovered later can still be claimed
• Statute of limitations is 2 years for lawsuit

Best Practice: Report within 1 week of storm damage, even if you're not sure of extent.

Will filing a claim raise my insurance rates?

Reality Check:

• One claim usually doesn't increase rates significantly
• Multiple claims (2-3 in 3-5 years) can impact rates or renewability
• Catastrophic storm (affecting whole area) usually doesn't count against you
• Your claim history stays with CLUE report for 7 years

What Affects Rates More:

• Claims frequency more than amount
• At-fault claims (maintenance) worse than storm claims
• Multiple small claims worse than one large claim

Can my insurance company drop me for filing a claim?

Texas Law Protection:

• Insurance can't cancel policy mid-term except for non-payment or fraud
• Insurance CAN non-renew at policy end after claims
• Must provide 30-60 days notice of non-renewal
• State farm mutual companies have better protections

After How Many Claims:

• Typically safe with 1 claim
• 2 claims in 3 years = higher risk of non-renewal
• 3+ claims = very likely non-renewal

If Non-Renewed:

• Shop for new carrier before policy expires
• Texas FAIR Plan available as last resort
• May pay higher rates for 3-5 years
• Still better than not maintaining coverage

What if my contractor's estimate is higher than insurance?

This is very common and usually resolved through:

Step 1: Supplemental Claim

• Contractor submits detailed estimate to adjuster
• Insurance re-inspects or reviews photos
• Adjuster writes 'supplement' for approved additional items
• Usually adds 10-30% to original estimate

Step 2: Negotiation

• Discuss specific line item differences
• Provide documentation (photos, material specs)
• Get contractor to explain why items are necessary
• Insurance may approve some but not all

Step 3: Your Options:

• Accept insurance amount and downgrade materials/scope
• Pay difference out-of-pocket
• Find contractor who will work for insurance amount
• Pursue appraisal or formal dispute process

Typical Outcome: Insurance increases estimate 15-40% after contractor involvement.

Should I use the contractor recommended by my insurance company?

Pros of Insurance Preferred Contractor:

• Pre-negotiated pricing with insurance
• Streamlined claims process
• Insurance may offer additional guarantees
• Known relationship speeds resolution

Cons:

• Works for insurance company regularly (bias?)
• May not fight for full coverage
• Limited choice
• Not always best quality or price

Our Recommendation:

• Get estimate from insurance contractor
• Also get 2 independent estimates
• Compare scope, quality, warranty, reputation
• Choose based on YOUR needs, not insurance preference
• Good independent contractors work well with all insurance companies

Can insurance force me to use used or aftermarket materials?

Texas Law:

• Insurance must provide 'like kind and quality'
• Can't force inferior materials
• Must match existing materials reasonably

Reality:

• Insurance prefers generic/economy brands
• You're entitled to equivalent quality
• If exact match unavailable, insurance pays for upgrade
• Document original material brand and quality

Your Rights:

• Refuse used materials for structural components
• Request OEM (original equipment manufacturer) if specified in policy
• Get written explanation if insurance insists on downgrade

What happens if damage is less than my deductible?

If Damage < Deductible:

• Insurance won't pay anything
• You still want to file claim to document damage
• Creates record if additional damage found later
• Protects you if damage worsens

Example:

• Repair cost: $4,500
• Your deductible: $5,000
• Insurance pays: $0
• You pay: $4,500

Should You File Anyway?

• Yes, if: Close to deductible amount (within $1,000)
• Yes, if: Additional damage may be discovered
• No, if: Far below deductible and clearly minor
• No, if: You've had multiple recent claims

How do I prove hail damage to my roof?

Adjuster Looks For:

On Shingles:

• Circular dents with exposed asphalt
• Bruised appearance with displaced granules
• Consistent pattern across roof
• More damage on slopes facing storm direction

On Metal Components:

• Dents in vents, flashing, drip edge
• Dimples in AC unit, gutters
• Satellite dish damage
• Window screen damage

Documentation You Provide:

• Weather report showing hail in your area
• Photos of damage from ground level
• Neighbor reports of hail
• Professional contractor inspection
• Hail size estimates from weather service

Test Marks vs. Damage:

• Insurance may claim 'test marks' from walking
• Real hail damage: Random pattern, round impacts
• Test marks: Scuff marks, linear patterns, corner impacts
• Contractor should avoid walking on damaged areas

What if I already had my roof repaired before filing a claim?

Problems:

• Insurance can't verify damage extent
• May deny claim for lack of proof
• Can't determine cause of damage
• Contractor may have covered up evidence

Solutions:

• Provide before photos if you have them
• Get contractor's detailed written report
• Submit contractor's invoice and scope
• May require sworn statement from contractor
• Consider appraisal if insurance denies

Best Practice:

• Always file claim BEFORE repairs
• Only emergency repairs should happen pre-claim
• Document emergency repairs thoroughly
• Insurance should approve major repairs first

Get Expert Help with Your Roof Insurance Claim

Navigating insurance claims is complex, but you don't have to do it alone. We help Central Texas homeowners maximize their insurance recovery every day.

Our Claims Assistance Includes:

• Free roof inspection and damage assessment
• Detailed written estimate for insurance
• Attendance at adjuster inspection
• Supplement writing when needed
• Expert testimony on damage
• Documentation support
• Direct communication with adjusters

Why Choose Us:

• 15+ years insurance claims experience
• Certified & insured Texas contractor
• Thousands of successful claims
• No pressure, no storm chaser tactics
• We work for YOU, not insurance companies

Service Areas: Austin, San Antonio, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, and all Central Texas

Schedule Free Roof Inspection → Call (512) 763-5277

This guide is for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. Insurance policies vary—always read your specific policy and consult with a licensed attorney for legal questions.