Dealing with roof damage can be stressful, and it becomes even more frustrating when your insurance company denies your claim. Whether due to technicalities, exclusions, or insufficient documentation, a denied claim doesn’t necessarily mean you’re out of options. Understanding why your claim was denied and taking the right steps can improve your chances of getting coverage. This guide will walk you through what to do if your roof insurance claim is denied.
1. Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied
Common Reasons for Denial:
Damage is deemed normal wear and tear and not covered under your policy.
The insurance adjuster determined the damage was pre-existing or caused by poor maintenance.
The claim was filed too late, exceeding the policy’s time limit.
The type of roof damage isn’t covered under your specific policy.
Insufficient evidence was provided to prove storm damage or sudden impact.
What to Do Next:
Request a detailed denial letter from your insurer explaining their decision.
Review your homeowners insurance policy to confirm what’s covered and what’s excluded.
Compare the insurer’s reasoning against your policy terms.
2. Document Everything and Gather Evidence
Steps to Strengthen Your Claim:
Take clear photos and videos of the damage from multiple angles.
Retrieve any past inspection reports or maintenance records to prove proper upkeep.
Get a third-party roofing contractor to inspect the damage and provide a written report.
If applicable, locate weather reports from the date of the incident to support storm-related claims.
3. Request a Second Inspection or Appeal the Decision
How to Appeal:
Write a formal appeal letter to your insurance company, including:
A request for claim reconsideration
Supporting documentation, photos, and third-party assessments
Reference to your policy’s terms that justify coverage
Ask your insurer to send a different adjuster for a second inspection.
If you suspect an unfair assessment, request an independent adjuster to reassess the damage.
4. Hire a Public Adjuster
What a Public Adjuster Does:
Works independently from your insurance company to evaluate your claim fairly.
Helps negotiate a higher payout based on a more accurate damage assessment.
Charges a fee (usually a percentage of the claim payout) but may result in a better outcome.
When to Consider a Public Adjuster:
If you believe the insurance adjuster’s estimate is too low.
If your appeal was denied and you need a second professional opinion.
If you feel the claim process is too complex to handle alone.
5. Consider Legal Action as a Last Resort
When to Seek Legal Help:
If your insurance company acts in bad faith (unreasonably denying or delaying your claim).
If they refuse to honor valid policy coverage despite clear evidence.
If your insurer is unresponsive or fails to provide a reasonable explanation for denial.
Legal Steps:
Consult a property damage attorney to review your case.
File a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner if necessary.
Prepare for litigation only if all other avenues have been exhausted.
Conclusion
A denied roof insurance claim isn’t the end of the road. By understanding the reason for denial, gathering strong evidence, and appealing the decision with the right approach, you can improve your chances of getting coverage. If necessary, hiring a public adjuster or seeking legal help can further support your case. Always stay proactive and persistent to ensure you get the protection you deserve from your homeowners insurance policy.