How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement (2025 Homeowner’s Guide)
Your roof works hard to protect your home every day. But what happens when a big storm hits and leaves you with missing shingles or leaks? Many homeowners worry about how to pay for a new roof and how to get a quality roofer to help. The good news is, your insurance may help if you know what steps to take.
This guide will help you understand how to get your insurance to help cover a roof replacement, so you can feel ready if you ever need it.
Know What Your Insurance Covers
First, look at your homeowner’s insurance policy. Most insurance plans cover damage from sudden events like storms, hail, high winds, or falling trees. But they may not pay for damage from old age, normal wear and tear, or poor maintenance.
Check if your policy has:
- Storm damage coverage (hail, wind, trees)
- Fire or vandalism coverage
- Exclusions for old roofs or leaks caused by neglect
If you’re not sure, call your insurance agent and ask. It’s better to know before there’s a problem.
Understand the Type of Policy You Have
Next, find out what kind of coverage you have. There are two main types:
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): This pays what your roof is worth today. Older roofs lose value, so you might not get enough money to cover the whole cost.
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV): This pays to replace your roof at today’s prices, minus your deductible. You may get two checks, one for the roof’s current value and one for the leftover cost after the job is done.
Knowing which one you have will help you plan.
Look for Damage and Take Pictures
After a storm, safely walk around your yard and look for signs of roof damage. Take clear photos of:
- Missing or broken shingles
- Dents in gutters, downspouts, or siding
- Debris or branches on your roof
- Damage to screens or outdoor units
Only do this from the ground; never climb on your roof if you’re not trained.
Call a Trusted Roofing Pro
Next, call a trusted roofing expert to inspect your roof. They can check for damage you may have missed and give you a detailed report. A good roofer knows what insurance companies look for and can help you through the claim process.
File Your Insurance Claim
Once you know you have damage, call your insurance company to start a claim. Share your photos and your roofer’s report if you have one. An insurance adjuster will come to look at the damage.
If you can, have your roofer there during the adjuster’s visit. They can help point out all the damage so nothing is missed.
Review the Estimate
Your insurance will send you an estimate that explains what they will pay for. Sometimes they might leave things out. Compare their list with your roofer’s list. If something important is missing, ask your roofer to help you request a fix.
Get the Work Done, Then Finish the Claim
Once your claim is approved, your roofer will replace your roof based on what the insurance agreed to pay for. If you have an RCV policy, you’ll get the rest of the money when the job is finished and approved.
Stay Ahead for Next Time
To avoid surprises, get your roof inspected every year. Fix small problems quickly so your insurance claim doesn’t get denied later for neglect.
And always ask your agent questions like:
- Does my roof age affect coverage?
- Do I need extra coverage for storms in my area?
- Are there discounts if I upgrade my roof?
Be Ready When You Need It
No one wants to deal with roof damage. But if it happens, knowing your policy, documenting damage, and working with a trusted roofer can help you get the insurance help you need. A little preparation now can save you stress and money down the road.
