How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement: 6 Steps to a Successful Claim

A full roof replacement can be one of the most expensive home repairs you’ll ever face. But the good news is, if the damage is due to a storm or accident, your insurance policy might help cover the cost. Learning how to get insurance to pay for roof replacement can save you thousands of dollars and make the process less stressful.

At Lagunas Roofing, we’ve helped homeowners in Fairview Heights and surrounding Illinois communities work through the insurance claim process. We understand local weather challenges and know what insurance companies are looking for when they approve a roof replacement.

When Does Insurance Cover a Roof Replacement?

Most homeowners' insurance policies cover roof replacements when the damage is caused by sudden events. Here are some common examples:

• Storm Damage: This includes damage from high winds, hail damage, or falling tree limbs during a storm.
• Falling Debris: If something like a tree or heavy object crashes into your roof, this is usually covered.
• Fire or Vandalism: These less common situations are also considered accidental and are generally included in insurance policies.

However, insurance usually doesn’t cover the aging of the roof or damage from lack of maintenance. If your roof is old and simply reached the end of its lifespan, you’ll likely need to pay out of pocket unless the damage was caused by a specific covered event.

How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement: Steps to a Successful Claim

Understanding the process is key to a successful claim. Follow these steps carefully to make sure you receive maximum coverage for your roof:

Step 1: Document the Damage

As soon as it’s safe, take clear photos and videos of the damage from different angles. Capture any missing shingles, debris, or areas where water is leaking inside the home.

Step 2: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Call a local roofer who can perform a free roof inspection. We can identify hidden damage, explain what we find, and prepare documentation to support your claim.

Step 3: File a Claim With Your Insurance Provider

Your next step should be to contact your insurance company and file the claim. They’ll ask for details, such as when and how the damage happened. Make sure you have the photos ready, as well as our inspection report and any other documents they request.

Step 4: Meet With the Insurance Adjuster

An adjuster will visit your home to assess the damage. In this situation, it will help to have your roofer there to point out issues and explain why you really need storm damage roof repair. At Lagunas Roofing, we regularly meet with adjusters on our clients' behalf to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Step 5: Review the Claim and Payout Estimate

Once it’s approved, your insurance company will send you a claim summary. This document shows what they’ll pay for and what’s your responsibility, including deductibles.

Step 6: Hire a Reputable Roofer

Now that your claim has been approved, it’s time to get your roof replaced. Make sure to hire a licensed and insured local contractor like Lagunas Roofing to complete the work. We’re familiar with roof replacement insurance claims and will ensure the work meets both code and insurance requirements.

Know Your Policy Type: Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost Value

Understanding your insurance policy type is one of the most important steps when trying to get your roof replacement covered. Most homeowners' policies fall into one of two categories:

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

An ACV policy takes depreciation into account when paying out for roof damage. That means the insurance company will calculate how much your roof is worth today and not what it would cost to replace it with a new one. For example, if your roof is 15 years into a 25-year lifespan, your payout may only cover a portion of the replacement cost.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

An RCV policy covers the full cost to replace your roof with new, similar materials, minus your deductible. This type of policy gives homeowners much better coverage, especially if the damage is extensive or the roof is older.

Tips for Filing a Successful Roofing Insurance Claim

Want to boost your chances of getting your roof replacement covered? Follow these helpful tips:

• Save Receipts and Notes: Keep a maintenance record for your roof or receipts of any minor repairs. This will serve as evidence that your roof was in good shape before the damage happened.
• Act Quickly: Insurance companies usually have deadlines for filing claims after a storm, so don’t wait too long to file yours.
• Avoid "Storm Chasers": These out-of-town contractors show up after storms offering deals. Be cautious because many disappear before the work is done right.
• Work With a Local Roofing Pro: Choose a roofer who understands roofing insurance paperwork, timelines, and expectations.

How Lagunas Roofing Helps With Insurance Claims

At Lagunas Roofing, we work closely with homeowners every step of the way. Here's how we help:

• Free Roof Inspections for insurance claims
• Help during adjuster meetings
• Detailed damage reports and estimates
• Honest communication throughout the claim process
• Professional installation that meets your standards

We’ve helped many homeowners figure out how to get a new roof from insurance, and we’re happy to walk you through it.

Want to Have Your Roof Replaced? Contact Lagunas Roofing for an Inspection Today!

Getting your insurance to cover a roof replacement might sound complicated, but with the right help, it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve experienced roof damage or want to learn more about how to get insurance to pay for roof replacement, we’re here to help. Contact our team at Lagunas Roofing at (618) 300-5661 for a free roof inspection or to talk about your roof replacement insurance questions. Call us today or fill out this form for a free estimate!