How to File a Roof Insurance Claim in Texas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Spring storm season in Dallas–Fort Worth brings hail, high winds, and roof damage to thousands of homes. If your roof was hit, your homeowner's policy may cover repair or replacement, but the process works better when you know the steps. This guide walks through them and explains what a roofing contractor can and can't do.

Step 1: Report Promptly

Call your insurer as soon as you suspect damage. Many Texas policies require you to report within a set time, often one year from the storm, and some are stricter. Check your policy.

Step 2: Document the Damage

Before your adjuster visits, have a roofing contractor inspect and photograph the roof. A good inspection gives you dated photos of every impact point, measurements, and hail size, plus a written report you can submit with your claim. Ultra Roofing offers a free property condition evaluation with a photo report. Get one before or after you file. The important thing is to report promptly.

Step 3: Understand Your Policy: ACV vs. RCV

• Actual Cash Value (ACV) — pays the depreciated value of your roof. Example: if your roof is about halfway through its expected life, ACV pays roughly half of what a new roof costs, minus your deductible.
• Replacement Cost Value (RCV) — pays the full cost to replace your roof with a comparable new one, minus your deductible. This is the better coverage.

Check your declarations page. Some policies pay actual cash value on roofs even when the rest of the home is covered at replacement cost.

Step 4: Be Present During the Adjuster Inspection

Be home if you can. If you'd like a contractor there, ask us. We're happy to be on the roof to show what we documented and answer questions about the roof itself. The adjuster makes the coverage decision, and you and your insurer handle the claim.

Step 5: Review Your Settlement Carefully

When you receive the settlement, compare it line by line to your contractor's written scope. Common gaps include missing line items (gutters, skylights, vents), underestimated quantities, and outdated pricing. If something looks missing, ask your insurer about its re-inspection or supplement process. We can prepare a written supplement estimate with photos for you to submit. If you want help with a dispute, we're glad to refer you to a licensed public adjuster.

What About My Deductible?

Texas law doesn't allow roofing contractors to waive, absorb, or rebate your deductible. Your deductible is your responsibility under your policy. We never waive or absorb deductibles, and we never ask you to misrepresent anything to your insurer. Be cautious of any contractor who offers otherwise.

Watch Out for Out-of-Area Contractors

After major hailstorms, out-of-area companies often go door to door. Ask for a local address, proof of insurance, references, and written warranty terms. Texas doesn't issue a state roofing license, so verify insurance and certifications instead.

Ultra Roofing is Aggie-owned, fully insured, and based in Rhome, TX.