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Roof Insurance Claim Denied in Texas? Do This

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

Questionable reasons (worth fighting):

  • "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

Read it carefully. Many denials cite vague language that doesn't actually apply to your situation.

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

This independent documentation is your strongest weapon in an appeal.

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

Send via certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

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 or request a free inspection online for expert guidance on your next steps. See also our complete guide to filing roof insurance claims. We fight for every legitimate dollar you're owed.*