How Much Can You Expect from Insurance for Roof Replacement?

Key Takeaways

• Homeowners may get around $13,000 for wind and hail damage, but actual payouts vary based on policy, deductible, and roof age.
• RCV vs. ACV makes a big difference—RCV covers a full replacement, while ACV factors in depreciation (aka, a smaller check).
• The claims process isn’t instant, but good documentation and a trusted roofer (like us!) can speed things up and maximize your payout.
• Insurance companies deny claims all the time, but knowing the rules—and having proof—can keep you from getting stuck with the bill.
• At Apex, we’ll fight for your claim from inspection to final payout—you don’t have to battle insurance companies alone.

Will Insurance Pay for Your Full Roof Replacement?

We know—roof damage is stressful. And one of the first things on your mind is probably: How much will insurance cover?

The answer? It depends. Your payout is based on things like your policy type, roof age, and the extent of the damage.

Based on industry data, the average wind and hail damage claim is around $13,000, but this is just a ballpark figure—your actual payout can be significantly higher or lower depending on policy terms and insurer assessments.

Let’s break it down—what’s covered, what’s not, and how to get the biggest payout possible.

Insurance Coverage for Roof Replacement

Insurance companies calculate roof replacement costs based on your policy type, roof material, age, and deductible.

ACV vs. RCV: What’s the Difference?

What Affects Your Insurance Payout?

• Roof Age: If your roof is 20+ years old, your insurer may only offer ACV coverage (which means a smaller payout). Newer roofs? More money in your pocket.
• Roof Material: Insurance loves durability. Metal and tile roofs? Higher payouts. Asphalt shingles? Not so much.
• Type of Damage: Storm wrecked your roof? You’re covered. But if it’s just old and worn out, insurance won’t foot the bill.
• Your Deductible: If your deductible is $1,000 and your claim is $8,000, insurance will cover $7,000. (Simple math, but good to know!)

The Roof Insurance Claim Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Get a Professional Roof Inspection

• Before calling your insurance company, have a pro check it out. Insurance adjusters can miss things, and you want all the damage documented.
• Pro Move: At Apex, we provide detailed reports and photos to make your claim rock-solid.

Step 2: Review Your Insurance Policy

• Do you have RCV or ACV coverage? (Will they pay for a full replacement or just what your roof is worth today?)
• What’s your deductible?
• Are there any limitations or exclusions? (Some policies won’t cover older roofs past a certain age.)

Step 3: File Your Insurance Claim (Fast!)

• Call your insurance provider ASAP—the sooner, the better.
• Send them all the proof (photos, inspection reports, estimates).

Step 4: Insurance Adjuster Inspection

• Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage.
• Pro Move: Apex can meet with the adjuster to make sure nothing gets overlooked.

Step 5: Claim Approval & Payout

• Once approved, you’ll get your payout minus your deductible.
• Pro Move: Apex works directly with insurers to make sure you get every dollar you deserve.

Common Reasons Insurance Claims Get Denied (and How to Avoid Them)

Insurance claims get denied more often than you’d think—but the good news? Most denials are 100% preventable.

Why Do Claims Get Denied?

• Your roof was already in bad shape. If it was falling apart before the storm, insurance won’t cover it.
• You waited too long to file. Most policies require claims within 6-12 months—don’t procrastinate!
• Your policy doesn’t cover it. Wear and tear? Cosmetic damage? These may be exclusions.
• Not enough proof. If you don’t have photos, reports, or estimates, you’re out of luck.
• You did DIY repairs before the adjuster came. Fixing things yourself can void your claim.

How to Make Sure Your Claim Gets Approved

• Schedule regular roof inspections and keep records (insurance loves a well-documented homeowner).
• Snap before-and-after photos after storms—proof is everything.
• File your claim ASAP—the clock starts ticking the moment damage happens.
• Bring in the pros. Our Apex team can handle the inspection and documentation so nothing gets missed.

Pro Tip: If your claim gets denied, don’t give up! You can appeal with more evidence from a roofing expert (and yes, we can help with that).

How to Get the Biggest Insurance Payout for Your Roof Replacement

Step 1: Work with a Roofing Pro (Like Us!)

• Insurance companies love paperwork. We document everything so they have no excuse to lowball your claim.

Step 2: Know Your Policy Inside & Out

• RCV or ACV: One covers full replacement, the other factors in depreciation. Big difference.)
• Coverage Limits: If your roof is older, consider increasing your limits before storm season hits.

Step 3: Get Multiple Estimates

• Insurance companies start low on purpose—it’s business. At Apex, we’ll provide accurate estimates that reflect real costs.

Step 4: File a Supplementary Claim If Needed

• Hidden damage can show up after work starts. If that happens? You can file an extra claim (yes, really).

Step 5: Negotiate Like a Pro

• If your payout seems too low, don’t just accept it. At Apex, we help homeowners push back and secure a fair amount.

You Deserve the Best Coverage—Let Apex Make It Happen

Your roof is one of the biggest investments in your home, and when disaster strikes, your insurance should have your back.

But here’s the thing: Handling the claims process doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right approach (and team), you can make sure your payout covers what you need—without extra stress or out-of-pocket surprises.

“The Apex team did a superb job on my roof with the shingles that reflect the sunlight of my roof. Didn’t have any problems with the debris on the ground. If I ever need repairs, I would call Apex again.” – Andrew D.

At Apex, we make the insurance process easy—so you can focus on what matters. Here’s what we do best:

• Free roof inspections and storm damage assessments.
• Insurance claim assistance (we deal with the adjusters, so you don’t have to).
• Expert roof replacements using top-quality materials that last.

Got roof damage? Don’t wait. Contact us for a FREE inspection. Let’s get your roof (and insurance payout) handled!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What factors determine the amount my insurance will pay for a roof replacement?

• Your Policy Type: RCV? You’re golden. ACV? Expect depreciation to shrink your payout.
• Roof Age & Condition: Older roof? Insurance may lowball you or limit coverage.
• Type of Damage: Storms and hail? You’re covered. Normal wear and tear? Not so much.
• Roofing Material: Metal and tile score higher payouts than basic asphalt shingles.
• Your Deductible: Whatever your deductible is, that’s coming out of your pocket first.

What’s the difference between Actual Cash Value and Replacement Cost Value policies?

• RCV—Pays for a brand-new roof. You only cover the deductible. Bigger payout. No depreciation penalty. Higher premium.
• ACV—Pays what your old roof is worth today. And that number keeps shrinking. Lower premium. Depreciation = smaller payout. More out-of-pocket costs.

How can I maximize my insurance payout for a roof replacement?

• Bring in a roofing pro—Pros will document everything so your claim holds weight.
• Know your policy—RCV means full coverage, ACV means depreciation.
• Get multiple estimates—If insurance lowballs you, be ready to push back.
• File ASAP—Most policies have deadlines. Miss them, and you’re out of luck.
• Negotiate if needed—If your payout looks too low, challenge it. Appeals exist for a reason.

Call us up! Our Apex team works with adjusters to make sure your claim gets the attention (and payout) it deserves.

Can my claim be denied, and if so, why?

Unfortunately, yes. But most denials can be avoided if you know what to watch for:

• Your roof was already falling apart. Insurance covers damage, not neglect.
• You waited too long. Most policies have a set time period for claims—don’t delay.
• Your policy doesn’t cover it. Some exclude cosmetic damage or certain types of failures.
• Not enough proof. Missing photos, estimates, or reports? That’s an easy rejection.
• You tried DIY repairs first. Never fix anything before the adjuster shows up!