The Homeowner’s 2025 Guide to Roof Insurance

Roof damage is more common than most homeowners realize. Hail, high winds, fallen branches, and heavy rains cause damage to thousands of roofs every year. Sometimes the damage is obvious—missing shingles, visible leaks, scattered debris. At other times, it creeps in quietly, only to appear months later as water stains or mold.

In 2025, storms are intensifying, and insurance companies are becoming more restrictive in their coverage. Higher deductibles for wind and hail, shorter times to file claims, and a growing list of exclusions are quickly becoming common. That means many homeowners don’t find that their coverage has changed until it’s too late.

If you’re facing roof damage, the insurance claim process can feel confusing or even stacked against you. But it doesn’t have to be. You’ll learn how to file a roof insurance claim, step by step. This guide also helps you avoid delays and make sure you get the coverage you need—without all the confusing language.

Know What Your Policy Actually Covers

Before you file a claim, look at your homeowners’ insurance policy. Insurance policies don’t cover all types of damage. Some policies will only cover complete repairs if your roof is new or the damage meets specific criteria. Others pay less because of your roof’s age or don’t cover hail damage that only affects the aesthetics.

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

This is a key difference—and it affects how much money you get:

• Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies cover the full cost to replace your roof at current prices (minus your deductible).
• Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies deduct for depreciation, meaning older roofs get smaller payouts.

Also, many policies in 2025 now include:

• Separate wind/hail deductibles, which are higher than your regular deductible.
• Tighter filing windows—some as short as 90 days from the date of the storm.
• Wear and tear exclusions, which can deny coverage for roofs in poor condition.

If you’re unsure about your coverage, call your insurance company and ask these three questions:



1. Do I have ACV or RCV?
2. What’s my deductible for wind or hail damage?
3. Are there any exclusions based on the age or condition of my roof?
   

Step 1: Assess the Damage Promptly

Once the weather clears, walk around your home and look for signs of damage. Use binoculars or a drone if you have one—don’t get on the roof yourself. Look for missing or lifted shingles, dented flashing, debris buildup, or granules in the gutters. Inside the home, check for water stains on the ceilings or signs of attic leaks.

If anything looks suspicious, call a local roofing company to inspect it. Many offer free storm damage inspections and can spot issues the untrained eye might miss.

Step 2: Prevent Further Damage Immediately

Most policies ask you to keep your property safe from further damage. That doesn’t mean doing full roofing repairs—just taking steps to stop things from getting worse.

Here’s what you can do:

• Cover exposed areas with a tarp.
• Place buckets under active leaks.
• Clear heavy branches or debris blocking gutters.

Taking these steps won’t affect your claim. But ignoring it might give your insurance company a reason to deny part of the payout.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve checked the damage and done your part to protect the home, it’s time to file a claim.

Before you call or open the app, gather:

• Your policy number
• The date and time of the storm
• Photos or videos of the damage
• Any inspection reports or contractor estimates

When you speak to your insurer, ask:

• Is this covered?
• What’s my deductible for this type of claim?
• Will this claim raise my premium?



In 2025, most companies will offer mobile apps that allow you to upload photos, chat with support, and track the status of your roof insurance claim. These tools can speed things up—use them if you can.

Step 4: Schedule the Adjuster’s Inspection

After you file, your insurance adjuster will need to inspect the damage. Their job is to verify what happened and estimate the cost of the repairs.

Here’s how to make the inspection work in your favor:

• Be there in person if possible.
• Invite your roofing contractor to meet the adjuster. The contractor will highlight the damage and explain any necessary repairs.
• Show your photos, estimates, and notes.



Some companies now offer virtual inspections using video calls or AI reviews. Convenient but not always accurate—ask if you can get a follow-up in-person visit if needed.

Step 5: Review the Insurance Estimate Carefully

After the inspection, you’ll get a repair estimate from the insurer. Review the details carefully—don’t just skim them.

Look for:



• Scope of work—what’s being fixed or replaced?
• Coverage limits—are they lower than expected?
• Depreciation deductions—especially if you have ACV coverage.

Now compare the insurer’s estimate with your contractor’s. If they don’t match, ask your contractor to explain the differences in writing. Then send that info to your insurance company. You can request a reinspection or provide additional proof if needed.

Step 6: Choose a Reputable Roofing Contractor

Take your time with this step. Your contractor will handle the important job of fixing or replacing your roof. Choose someone local, licensed, insured, and experienced with roofing insurance claims.

Watch out for storm chasers, companies that appear after major storms and offer quick, inexpensive repairs. They often leave before finishing the work or before problems show later.

In 2025, some states require contractors who handle insurance repairs to register with a state or insurance board. Check reviews, verify credentials, and ask about warranties.

Step 7: Understand How the Claim Is Paid

Most claims are paid in two parts:

1. The first check is the Actual Cash Value (ACV)—this is what your roof is worth today.
2. The second check (if you have RCV) is issued after you complete the repairs and submit proof. Insurance companies call this recoverable depreciation.



Make sure you keep receipts, photos, and signed invoices. Your insurer may require all to release the final payment.

If you have a mortgage, the insurance company may write the check to you and your lender. You’ll need to work with your lender to endorse the check and release the funds. Skipping this step can result in delays to the process.

If Your Claim Is Denied

Getting denied happens more often than people think—but it’s not the end.

Common reasons for denial:

• Wear and tear, not sudden damage
• Old or pre-existing issues
• Filing too late
• The roof has not been maintained correctly



If this happens:

• Read the denial letter carefully.
• Call and request a detailed explanation.
• Get a second inspection from a trusted roofing contractor.
• Submit an appeal or hire a public adjuster to fight on your behalf.

A denial doesn’t always mean you have no options—especially if you have real, well-documented damage.

Bonus Tip: Document Everything from Day One

Save everything. That includes:

• Photos (before and after)
• Emails and texts with your insurer and contractor
• Inspection reports
• Estimates and invoices

Use a folder on your phone, computer, or cloud drive. Staying organized makes it easier to respond when your insurer asks for proof or to challenge a low payout.

Ready Before the Rain: Take Control Today

If your roof gets damaged this year, you now know what to do—step by step. But the smartest move is to prepare before the next storm hits.

Take five minutes today to:

• Read your home insurance policy
• Take a few clear “before” photos of your roof
• Build a shortlist of trusted, local roofing contractors



Filing a roofing insurance claim can be a stress-free and straightforward process. Take the time to understand what to expect and act quickly. You’ll stay in control and ensure the insurance company pays your claim fairly. Stay ready, stay covered, and don’t let your next storm catch you off guard.