Roof Insurance Claim Denied in Texas? Here's What to Do
You filed a legitimate claim. Your roof has obvious damage. And your insurance company said no. Unfortunately, this happens more often than most Texas homeowners realize. But a denial is NOT the final word.
Why Insurance Companies Deny Roof Claims
Common reasons for denial (and whether they're legitimate):
Potentially legitimate reasons:
- Damage is from wear and tear, not a covered event
- Policy exclusions apply (cosmetic damage only, age limitations)
- Claim filed outside the policy's time limit
- Maintenance neglect contributed to the damage
- "Pre-existing damage" — when you know the damage is new
- "Insufficient documentation" — when you provided photos
- Lowball estimate that doesn't cover actual repair costs
- Adjuster missed damage during a brief inspection
- Claim "partially approved" for far less than needed
Step 1: Understand Your Denial Letter
Your denial letter must include:
- The specific reason for denial
- The policy language they're citing
- Your right to appeal
- The deadline for appeal
Step 2: Get an Independent Inspection
Hire a reputable local roofing contractor (like Candor) to:
- Document all damage with detailed photos
- Provide a written scope of work and estimate
- Identify damage the insurance adjuster may have missed
- Note the cause of damage (hail, wind, etc.) with specifics
Step 3: File a Formal Appeal
Texas Insurance Code gives you the right to appeal. Include:
- Your policy number and claim number
- A clear statement that you're appealing the denial
- Your contractor's inspection report and photos
- Any weather data proving a covered event occurred
- A point-by-point rebuttal of the denial reasons
Step 4: Request Re-Inspection
You have the right to request a second inspection. Tips:
- Be present during the re-inspection
- Have your contractor present to point out damage
- Document everything the adjuster does and says
- Ask the adjuster to get on the roof (some only inspect from the ground)
Step 5: Consider a Public Adjuster
A public adjuster works for YOU, not the insurance company:
- They typically charge 10-15% of the claim payout
- They know insurance company tactics and how to counter them
- They can often get claims reopened and approved
- Only hire one registered with the Texas Department of Insurance
Step 6: File a Complaint with TDI
If you believe your claim was unfairly denied:
- Texas Department of Insurance complaint line: 1-800-252-3439
- Online complaint form: tdi.texas.gov
- TDI investigates and can compel insurers to reconsider
Step 7: Legal Options
If all else fails, Texas law provides strong homeowner protections:
- Texas Insurance Code Chapter 542 — requires timely claim handling
- Bad faith — insurers who unreasonably deny claims face penalties
- Attorney fees — if you win, the insurer may pay your legal costs
- Many roofing attorneys work on contingency (no upfront cost)
How Candor Helps with Denied Claims
We've helped hundreds of West Texas homeowners fight denied claims:
- Free re-inspection — we document everything the adjuster missed
- Detailed scope of work — professional estimate that holds up to scrutiny
- Adjuster meetings — we'll meet with your adjuster on-site
- Supplemental claims — we file for additional damage found during work
- We never inflate — our honest estimates build credibility with insurers
Prevention: How to Avoid Denials
- File promptly — don't wait months after a storm
- Document immediately — photos of damage, weather reports, neighbor damage
- Don't make temporary repairs without documenting first
- Keep maintenance records — proves you weren't negligent
- Review your policy annually — know what's covered before you need it
Claim denied? Don't give up. Call Candor Construct & Roofing at (806) 224-2836 for a free inspection and expert guidance on your next steps. We fight for every legitimate dollar you're owed.