Don’t Let These Roofing Insurance Myths Cost You
Homeowners rely on insurance to protect their homes, especially when it comes to roof damage. But misinformation about roofing insurance can lead to denied claims, out-of-pocket costs, and expensive mistakes. Some of the most commonly believed myths about roofing insurance could be draining your wallet without you even realizing it.
Let’s debunk the 10 most common roofing insurance myths so you can avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions about protecting your home.
1. Does Homeowners Insurance Always Cover Roof Damage?
Many homeowners assume their insurance will cover any roof damage, but that’s not the case. Insurance only covers sudden and accidental damage—not general wear and tear or poor maintenance.
For example, if a storm causes shingles to blow off your roof, that’s covered. But if your roof has been deteriorating over time and suddenly starts leaking, your claim will likely be denied.
What to do: Keep up with regular roof maintenance and schedule inspections to ensure your roof remains in good condition. This helps prove that any damage is not due to neglect, increasing your chances of a successful claim.
2. Do You Need to Get Three Estimates Before Filing a Claim?
This is one of the most persistent myths, but there is no rule requiring homeowners to get three estimates. Insurance companies use their own software, like Xactimate, to calculate payouts based on current labor and material costs.
In fact, getting too many estimates can slow down your claim and create unnecessary confusion if the numbers vary significantly.
What to do: Instead of shopping around for multiple quotes, choose a trusted, insurance-savvy roofing contractor who understands how to work with adjusters and advocate for your best interests.
3. Will Filing a Roof Claim Automatically Raise My Insurance Rates?
Many homeowners hesitate to file a claim because they fear their premiums will increase. But roof damage caused by storms or other uncontrollable events is considered an “Act of God” and does not count against you.
However, if you file multiple claims in a short period, especially for issues that could have been prevented, your rates could go up.
What to do: If your roof has suffered major damage, don’t hesitate to file a claim. Just be mindful about not filing for minor issues that you can afford to repair yourself.
4. If My Roof Claim Is Denied, Is There Nothing I Can Do?
Many homeowners give up after a denied claim, but denials can be appealed. Often, claims are denied due to insufficient documentation, adjuster mistakes, or policy misunderstandings.
You can request a reinspection, provide additional evidence, or even hire a public adjuster to advocate for you.
What to do: If your claim is denied, don’t take no for an answer. Review your policy, gather more evidence, and work with an experienced roofing contractor to appeal the decision.
5. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover an Entire Roof Replacement?
Insurance only pays for the portion of the roof that was damaged, not a full replacement—unless the damage is severe enough to warrant it.
For example, if a hailstorm damages one side of your roof, insurance will cover that section, but you may have to cover the rest if the roof is still in good shape.
What to do: Make sure you understand your policy and be prepared for partial coverage unless the entire roof is compromised.
6. If My Roof Is Old, Can I Still Get Coverage for Damage?
Yes—but with limitations. Many insurance policies prorate coverage based on the roof’s age. For example, if your roof is 20 years old, your policy may only cover a portion of the replacement cost, or they may offer actual cash value (ACV) instead of replacement cost (RCV).
What to do: Check whether your policy provides replacement cost coverage or actual cash value coverage, and consider updating your policy if needed.
7. Can I Wait to Fix My Roof Until My Claim is Approved?
Delaying roof repairs can lead to more severe damage, and some insurance policies require homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. If you wait too long, your claim might be denied because the damage worsened due to neglect.
What to do: If your roof is actively leaking or at risk of further damage, make temporary repairs and document everything to submit with your claim.
8. Does My Insurance Cover Roof Damage From All Types of Storms?
Not always. Standard homeowners insurance usually covers wind, hail, and storm damage, but some policies exclude certain weather events, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, which require separate coverage.
What to do: Read your policy carefully to ensure you have coverage for the natural disasters common in your area.
9. Can I Keep My Insurance Payout Instead of Fixing My Roof?
Technically, yes—but it’s a bad idea. If you accept an insurance payout but don’t fix your roof, your home’s structural integrity is at risk, and future claims for related damage could be denied.
What to do: Always use your insurance payout for repairs to avoid long-term problems and maintain coverage for future claims.
10. If My Insurance Covers the Roof, Do I Still Have to Pay Anything?
Yes—most homeowners still have to pay their deductible. If a contractor claims they can waive your deductible, it’s likely an insurance fraud scheme.
What to do: Be wary of any contractor who promises “free roofs.” Always verify your policy’s deductible requirements and work with a licensed, reputable roofer.
Final Thoughts: Are These Myths Costing You Money?
Yes, roofing insurance myths can lead to costly mistakes. Believing misinformation about coverage, claims, and repairs could leave you paying out-of-pocket for damage that should be covered.
By knowing the facts and working with trusted professionals like Tier-One Roofing, you can make informed decisions and maximize your insurance benefits.
📞 Need help navigating a roof insurance claim? Call us at (918) 393-4682 or visit www.tier-oneroofing.com to schedule a free consultation!