Most people deal with a roof claim once or twice in their life. Insurance companies deal with thousands a week. That gap is why we put this page together. Here are the rights most homeowners have after storm damage, in plain English. Your policy and your state's laws are what actually control, so read your policy and call your state insurance department if anything is unclear.
1. You have the right to see your policy
Ask your agent or insurer for the full policy, not just the one-page summary. The parts that matter most for a roof claim are the wind and hail deductible, whether the roof is paid at replacement cost or actual cash value, any cosmetic damage exclusion, and the deadlines for reporting a loss and disputing a decision.
2. You have the right to know why a claim was denied
If your claim is denied or paid for less than you expected, ask for the reason in writing along with the policy language it's based on, the adjuster's photos and estimate, and any engineer report. Every state has unfair claims practice laws that require insurers to handle claims fairly. A clear written explanation is a reasonable thing to ask for.
3. You have the right to your own inspection
The insurance company's adjuster is not the only person allowed to look at your roof. You can have an independent roofer, or an engineer, inspect it and send that documentation to your insurer. We do storm inspections for free, with a photo report.
4. You have the right to choose your contractor
Your insurance company may hand you a list of "preferred" contractors. You don't have to use them. It's your home and your choice who works on it. We explain this in detail on you have the right to choose your contractor.
5. You have the right to ask for a re-inspection
If you have new evidence that damage was missed, you can ask the insurer to come back out. See how to request a re-inspection.
6. You may have the right to appraisal
Many homeowner policies include an appraisal clause for when you and the insurer agree there's a covered loss but disagree on the amount. Each side picks an appraiser, and an umpire decides what they can't agree on. Check your policy for how it works and what it costs.
7. You have the right to file a complaint, free
If you think your claim is being handled unfairly, you can file a complaint with the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance, the Kansas Insurance Department, the Illinois Department of Insurance, the Indiana Department of Insurance, or the Kentucky Department of Insurance. It costs nothing and the insurer has to respond.
8. You have the right to get help
A licensed public adjuster can represent you on the claim, usually for a percentage of the settlement. An attorney can review a coverage dispute or how the claim was handled. Both are your choice.
Your rights with contractors, too
- Read before you sign. Don't sign anything in the driveway the day after a storm. Take it inside, read it, ask questions.
- Cancellation rights. The federal Cooling-Off Rule generally gives you three business days to cancel a sale made at your home, and state law may add more. A legitimate contract will explain your cancellation rights.
- Nobody should "cover your deductible." In Missouri and Illinois it's illegal for a contractor to offer to pay or waive your deductible, and it's a red flag anywhere.
- Ask for proof. A local address, insurance, references and any manufacturer certifications they claim.
What we do and don't do
John Beal Roofing has been roofing in the Midwest since 1947. We inspect, document, repair and replace roofs, and we'll meet your adjuster on the roof. We are not public adjusters or attorneys and we don't negotiate claims. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to use the contractor my insurance company recommends?
No. You can choose any contractor you want. A preferred contractor list is a suggestion, not a requirement.
Can I get my own roof inspection after a storm?
Yes. You can have an independent roofer or engineer inspect the roof and send that documentation to your insurer.
Where do I file a complaint about my roof insurance claim?
With your state insurance department, such as the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance, the Kansas Insurance Department, the Illinois Department of Insurance, the Indiana Department of Insurance or the Kentucky Department of Insurance. It is free.
Can a roofer pay my insurance deductible?
No. In Missouri and Illinois it is illegal for a contractor to offer to pay or waive your deductible. Be wary of anyone who offers.
More storm damage help
- Roof claim denied? Here is what to do next
- How to request a roof re-inspection from your insurance company
- Storm damage inspections: you have the right to choose your contractor
- Storm and hail damage repair
- Roof insurance claim help
Get a free storm damage inspection. Call 1-800-564-6232, answered 24/7, or use the form at the top of this page.