Will Insurance Cover Old Roof Replacement in Florida?

Quick Answer

The Hard Truth About Florida Roof Insurance in 2026

Florida has the MOST RESTRICTIVE roof insurance policies in the United States.

Here’s why Tampa Bay homeowners are shocked when they file claims:

What Changed in Florida Insurance (2022-2026)

Before 2022:

• Most policies covered roofs at full replacement cost (RCV) regardless of age
• Hurricane claims paid quickly with minimal depreciation
• Cosmetic damage (wind scuff marks, minor hail) often covered

After 2022 Insurance Crisis:

• Mandatory depreciation schedules based on roof age
• 15-year replacement requirement (many insurers won’t cover roofs 15+ years)
• Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies becoming standard for older roofs
• Wind mitigation required for premium discounts (inspections every 5 years)
• Hurricane deductibles increased to 2-10% of dwelling coverage ($400K home = $8,000-$40,000 deductible)

Why This Happened

Florida’s insurance market collapsed due to:

• $67 billion in hurricane claims (2017-2022)
• Roofing contractor fraud epidemic (2019-2021)
• 6 major insurers exited Florida market
• Premiums increased 300-400% in some coastal areas

The result? Insurance companies now scrutinize roof age, maintenance history, and wind mitigation credits more than ever.

Understanding RCV vs ACV: The $10,000 Difference

Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

What it means: Insurance pays the full cost to replace your roof with new materials (minus deductible).

Example claim:

• Roof replacement cost: $15,000
• Your deductible: $2,500
• Insurance pays: $12,500 ✅
• You pay: $2,500 (deductible only)

Who gets RCV coverage: ✅ Roofs 0-10 years old (most policies) ✅ Some policies extend RCV to 15 years with wind mitigation ✅ Premium policies (higher cost)

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

What it means: Insurance pays replacement cost MINUS depreciation based on roof age.

Example claim (18-year-old roof):

• Roof replacement cost: $15,000
• Depreciation (60%): -$9,000
• Depreciated value: $6,000
• Your deductible: $2,500
• Insurance pays: $3,500 ❌
• You pay: $11,500 (deductible + depreciation)

Who gets ACV coverage: ❌ Roofs 15+ years old (most policies) ❌ Roofs without wind mitigation credits ❌ High-risk areas (coastal, flood zones)

Florida’s Depreciation Schedule (Standard)

Most Florida insurers use this depreciation formula:

Years 0-10: 0% depreciation (full RCV) Years 11-15: 2-4% depreciation per year Years 16-20: 5-8% depreciation per year Years 20+: 50-70% total depreciation (or coverage denied)

Example: 17-year-old asphalt shingle roof

At year 17, a $15,000 roof replacement = $10,950 payout (73% of $15,000) minus your deductible.

What IS Covered by Florida Homeowners Insurance?

✅ Covered Perils (Storm Damage)

1. Wind Damage (Hurricanes, Tropical Storms, Thunderstorms)

Examples that ARE covered:

• Shingles blown off by 60+ mph winds
• Tree limb falls and punctures roof during storm
• Fascia/soffit torn off by hurricane-force winds
• Roof decking damaged by wind-driven rain penetration
• Emergency tarping after storm (typically $500-$1,500 reimbursed)

Required for claim approval: ✅ Wind speed verification (NOAA weather data from claim date) ✅ Recent roof inspection (proves roof was in good condition before storm) ✅ Photos of damage (within 24-48 hours of storm) ✅ No pre-existing damage (adjuster will check)

2. Hail Damage

Examples that ARE covered:

• Dented/cracked shingles from hail impact
• Broken tiles from golf ball-sized hail
• Damaged flashing from hail strikes
• Bruised granules (soft spots on shingles)

How adjusters verify hail damage:

• Hail test: Walk roof to check for impact marks
• NOAA verification: Confirm hail event on claim date
• Pattern consistency: Damage must be uniform (random damage = denied)

Florida hail reality: Tampa Bay gets hail 2-5 days per year (rare). Most hail damage claims are in Central/North Florida.

3. Falling Objects

Examples that ARE covered:

• Tree falls on roof during storm
• Debris from neighbor’s property hits roof
• Satellite dish blown off and damages shingles

Required proof:

• Photos of object + damage
• Proof of sudden impact (not gradual tree lean)

4. Fire/Smoke Damage

Examples that ARE covered:

• House fire damages roof structure
• Neighbor’s fire spreads to your roof
• Electrical fire from lightning strike

❌ NOT Covered (Will Be Denied)

1. Normal Wear and Tear

Examples that are NOT covered:

• Shingles curling/cracking from age
• Granule loss from UV exposure
• Faded/discolored shingles
• Nail pops from thermal expansion
• Minor leaks from aging sealant

Why denied: “Lack of maintenance” or “normal deterioration.”

2. Pre-Existing Damage

Examples that are NOT covered:

• Damage that existed before policy started
• Old leak that finally caused ceiling stain
• Shingles blown off from storm 2 years ago (never repaired)

Why denied: “Damage occurred before covered event.”

3. Cosmetic Damage (Post-2024 Policies)

Examples that are NOT covered:

• Minor wind scuff marks on shingles (functional but cosmetic)
• Small hail dings that don’t penetrate shingle
• Discoloration from algae/mold (cosmetic issue)

Why denied: Florida law now allows “cosmetic damage exclusions” in policies. Insurance pays only if damage affects function.

4. Poor Installation/Manufacturing Defects

Examples that are NOT covered:

• Shingles installed incorrectly (wrong nails, improper overlap)
• Defective shingles that crack prematurely
• Flashing installed without sealant
• Underlayment skipped to save money

Why denied: “Installation defect” or “manufacturer defect” (not a covered peril). This is a warranty claim, not insurance.

5. Gradual Damage

Examples that are NOT covered:

• Slow leak that damaged decking over 6 months
• Tree branches rubbing on roof for years
• Algae/mold growth from poor ventilation

Why denied: “Gradual deterioration” or “lack of maintenance.”

Florida-Specific Insurance Issues You MUST Know

1. Hurricane Deductibles (The Shock Factor)

Florida has SEPARATE deductibles for hurricanes.

Standard homeowners deductible:

• $1,000-$5,000 (applies to wind, hail, fire, theft)

Hurricane deductible:

• 2-10% of dwelling coverage (not a flat amount)

Example:

• Dwelling coverage: $400,000
• Hurricane deductible: 5%
• Your hurricane deductible: $20,000 ⚠️

When hurricane deductible triggers:

• National Hurricane Center declares tropical storm/hurricane
• Storm makes landfall within 100 miles of your home
• Deductible applies for 72 hours after declaration

The problem: Most Tampa Bay homeowners don’t realize their hurricane deductible is 10-20X higher than their standard deductible.

2. Wind Mitigation Credits (Save 10-45% on Premiums)

Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts for wind-resistant features.

Wind mitigation inspection checks:

1. Roof shape (hip roof = lower wind uplift)
2. Roof-to-wall attachment (hurricane straps/clips)
3. Roof deck attachment (8d nails vs hurricane screws)
4. Roof covering (impact-resistant shingles)
5. Opening protection (hurricane shutters, impact windows)
6. Secondary water resistance (SWR, sealed roof deck)

Premium discounts:

Example:

• Annual premium (no mitigation): $6,000
• After full wind mitigation: $3,300-$3,600
• Savings: $2,400-$2,700/year ✅

Cost of wind mitigation inspection: $75-$150 (one-time, valid 5 years)

When to get wind mitigation: ✅ Before renewal (send to insurer for immediate discount) ✅ After roof replacement (document new features) ✅ Every 5 years (re-certify for continued discounts)

3. Citizens Property Insurance (Insurer of Last Resort)

What is Citizens? State-run insurance program for homeowners who can’t get private coverage.

Who ends up on Citizens:

• Roofs 15+ years old (private insurers deny)
• Coastal properties (high hurricane risk)
• Multiple prior claims (flagged as high-risk)

Citizens coverage limits:

• Maximum dwelling coverage: $700,000
• Higher premiums than private insurers (10-30% more)
• ACV (Actual Cash Value) for roofs 15+ years
• Strict roof replacement requirements

The Citizens roof replacement mandate: ⚠️ If your roof is 15+ years old, Citizens may:

• Require replacement within 1 year (or drop coverage)
• Offer ACV-only coverage (heavy depreciation)
• Charge 20-40% higher premiums

Current reality (2026): 1.2 million Florida homes on Citizens (up from 420,000 in 2020). If you’re on Citizens, budget for roof replacement BEFORE age 15.

4. Non-Renewal Notices (The 15-Year Cliff)

Florida insurers can drop you for roof age.

Timeline:

• Year 14: You receive policy renewal ✅
• Year 15: Insurer sends non-renewal notice ❌
• 60-90 days: Find new insurer (difficult with 15-year roof)
• No coverage? Forced onto Citizens or private market at 50-100% higher premium

What triggers non-renewal:

1. Roof age 15+ years
2. Roof inspection shows “poor” condition
3. Missing wind mitigation credits
4. Prior claims history (2+ claims in 5 years)

How to avoid non-renewal: ✅ Replace roof at year 14 (before 15-year cliff) ✅ Get annual roof inspections (document maintenance) ✅ Complete wind mitigation (makes you less risky) ✅ Avoid small claims (pay out-of-pocket for repairs under $5,000)

How to Maximize Your Insurance Claim Payout

Step 1: Document Your Roof BEFORE Damage Occurs

Create a “roof maintenance file” today:

✅ Annual roof inspection reports (from licensed FL roofer) ✅ Photos of roof condition (all 4 sides, close-ups of shingles) ✅ Receipts for repairs/maintenance (proves proper care) ✅ Wind mitigation inspection report (shows wind-resistant features) ✅ Original roof installation invoice (proves age, materials, warranty)

Why this matters: When you file a claim, the adjuster will ask: “Was this roof properly maintained?” If you can’t prove it, claim gets denied.

Best practice: Schedule annual roof inspection every May (before hurricane season). Cost: $150-$300. Documenting one inspection can save you $10,000+ on a denied claim.

Step 2: Act IMMEDIATELY After Storm Damage

Within 24 hours:

1. Document damage with photos/video

   • Date/time stamp visible
   • All 4 roof sides
   • Close-ups of damaged shingles/tiles
   • Interior damage (ceiling stains, leaks)
   • Debris on ground (proves wind event)

2. Mitigate further damage (required by policy)

   • Tarp damaged areas (save receipts)
   • Move furniture away from leaks
   • Place buckets under drips
   • Don’t make permanent repairs yet (adjuster must see damage first)

3. Contact insurance company

   • File claim within 48 hours (most policies require prompt notice)
   • Get claim number + adjuster contact
   • Ask for timeline (when adjuster will inspect)

Within 72 hours:

4. Hire a licensed FL roofing contractor

   • Get written estimate (itemized, detailed)
   • Do NOT sign any “assignment of benefits” (AOB) agreements
   • Get emergency tarping (document cost)

5. Get second opinion (if major damage)

   • Compare estimates from 2-3 roofers
   • Ensure all estimate same scope (apples-to-apples)

What NOT to do: ❌ Don’t let contractor “handle insurance for you” (AOB fraud red flag) ❌ Don’t sign any contracts before insurance inspection ❌ Don’t make permanent repairs before adjuster inspects ❌ Don’t cash insurance check if amount seems low (acceptance = waiving right to dispute)

Step 3: Meet the Insurance Adjuster (Critical)

The adjuster’s job: Minimize payout by finding reasons to deny/reduce claim.

Your job: Prove damage is covered, sudden, and properly maintained.

During inspection:

✅ Be present (don’t let adjuster inspect alone) ✅ Point out ALL damage (they may miss areas) ✅ Show maintenance file (inspection reports, receipts) ✅ Provide NOAA weather data (proves wind speed on claim date) ✅ Have contractor present (optional but helpful) ✅ Take photos of adjuster’s inspection (what they measured, documented)

Red flags adjusters look for:

1. Pre-existing damage

   • Rusty nails (damage is old)
   • Algae/mold (poor maintenance)
   • Multiple shingle layers (cheap installation)

2. Installation defects

   • Improper nailing pattern
   • Missing underlayment
   • Incorrect flashing

3. Cosmetic vs functional damage

   • Minor scuff marks (cosmetic, not covered)
   • Cracked shingles (functional, covered)

If adjuster finds pre-existing issues: Ask contractor to separate “storm damage” from “pre-existing wear.” You may still get partial payout.

Step 4: Review the Initial Settlement Offer

You’ll receive:

• Adjuster’s inspection report
• Estimate of repairs (typically LOW)
• Initial settlement check (often 50-70% of actual cost)

Compare to contractor estimate:

Why the difference?

• Adjusters use depreciated material costs (cheaper prices)
• Adjusters exclude “non-visible” damage (decking, underlayment)
• Adjusters use ACV (actual cash value) vs RCV (replacement cost)

Step 5: Negotiate or Hire a Public Adjuster

Option 1: Negotiate Yourself

How to dispute low settlement:

1. Submit contractor estimate (detailed, itemized)
2. Request re-inspection (point out missed damage)
3. Cite policy language (what’s covered per your policy)
4. Provide comparable claims data (what neighbors received for similar damage)

Email template:

Subject: Claim #123456 - Request for Supplemental Review

Dear [Adjuster Name],

Thank you for the initial settlement offer of $8,500 for roof replacement due to wind damage on [date].

After reviewing your estimate with 3 licensed Florida roofing contractors, I’ve identified the following discrepancies:

1. Roof decking damage not included: Your estimate does not account for $1,200 in decking replacement (see attached photos of water damage to OSB decking).

2. Material costs below market rate: Your estimate uses $95/square for architectural shingles. Current Tampa Bay market rate is $135-$150/square (see attached estimates from 3 FL-licensed contractors).

3. Drip edge and fascia damage not included: Wind damage to drip edge ($450) and fascia ($800) visible in photos (see attached).

Requested revised settlement: $17,450 (see attached contractor estimate).

I am providing:

• 3 contractor estimates (all licensed, insured FL contractors)
• Photos of all damage areas
• NOAA weather data confirming 75 mph wind gusts on claim date
• Roof maintenance records (annual inspections 2021-2025)

Please re-inspect and revise settlement to reflect actual replacement cost. I am available [dates/times] for re-inspection.

Thank you, [Your Name] Policy #: [number] Claim #: [number]

Success rate: 60-70% of disputes result in higher payout (additional $2,000-$5,000).

Option 2: Hire a Public Adjuster

What they do: Negotiate with insurance company on your behalf (like a lawyer for insurance claims).

Cost: 10-20% of final settlement (paid AFTER you receive payout).

Example:

• Initial offer: $8,500
• Public adjuster negotiates: $16,000
• Their fee (15%): $2,400
• Your net payout: $13,600 (vs $8,500 = $5,100 more in your pocket)

When to hire public adjuster: ✅ Claim denied (and you disagree) ✅ Settlement offer 50%+ lower than contractor estimate ✅ Major damage (full roof replacement, $15,000+) ✅ You’re not comfortable negotiating

Where to find public adjusters:

• Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (FAPIA): fapia.org
• Check FL license: myfloridalicense.com/DBPR (look for “Public Adjuster” license)

Step 6: Understand Recoverable Depreciation

If you have RCV (Replacement Cost Value) coverage:

2-check payment system:

1. Initial check: ACV (Actual Cash Value = replacement cost minus depreciation)
2. Recoverable depreciation check: Paid AFTER repairs complete

Example (12-year-old roof, 10% depreciation):

• Replacement cost: $15,000
• Depreciation (10%): -$1,500
• Initial check: $13,500 (ACV)
• After repairs complete: $1,500 (recoverable depreciation) ✅
• Total payout: $15,000

How to claim recoverable depreciation:

1. Complete roof replacement with licensed contractor
2. Submit final invoice + proof of payment to insurance
3. Submit W-9 form (for tax reporting)
4. Recoverable depreciation check arrives 30-60 days later

CRITICAL: If you don’t complete repairs within 365 days (most policies), you forfeit recoverable depreciation. The initial ACV check is all you get.

When to Replace Your Roof Proactively (Before Insurance Event)

The Financial Case for Early Replacement

Scenario 1: Wait for insurance claim (reactive)

Assumptions:

• 16-year-old asphalt shingle roof
• Hurricane damages 60% of roof
• Replacement cost: $15,000

Insurance payout (ACV, 30% depreciation):

• Replacement cost: $15,000
• Depreciation (30%): -$4,500
• Deductible: -$2,500
• Net insurance payout: $8,000

Your total cost:

• Out-of-pocket: $7,000 (deductible + depreciation)
• Insurance paid: $8,000
• Total: $15,000 roof replacement

Scenario 2: Replace proactively at year 14

Assumptions:

• 14-year-old asphalt shingle roof (before depreciation hits hard)
• No insurance claim (pay out-of-pocket)
• Replacement cost: $15,000

Your total cost:

• Out-of-pocket: $15,000
• Insurance paid: $0
• Total: $15,000 roof replacement

“Wait, both scenarios cost the same?”

YES. But Scenario 2 has these advantages:

✅ You control timing (replace during off-season = lower prices, faster scheduling) ✅ No deductible (insurance not involved) ✅ New roof = full RCV coverage (next storm, you get 100% payout) ✅ Lower premiums (wind mitigation credits, no depreciation) ✅ Avoid non-renewal (don’t hit 15-year age cliff) ✅ No claim on record (claims history affects future insurability)

The math:

• Replace at year 14: $15,000 out-of-pocket
• Wait until year 17 (after storm): $7,000-$11,000 out-of-pocket + claim on record + higher premiums

Plus ongoing savings:

• Wind mitigation discount: $2,400/year (saves $12,000 over 5 years)
• No depreciation: Next claim pays 100% RCV (saves $3,000-$6,000)

Break-even timeline: Proactive replacement pays for itself in 3-5 years through lower premiums + better coverage.

The “Sweet Spot” Replacement Age

Best time to replace (financially):

The “Year 14 Rule”: If your roof is 14 years old and in fair condition, replace NOW (before age 15) to:

• Lock in RCV coverage for new roof (100% payout next storm)
• Avoid non-renewal notices
• Maximize wind mitigation savings
• Control timing/cost (off-season discounts)

How to Work With Insurance Companies (Without Getting Denied)

DO’s

✅ Get annual roof inspections (document maintenance) ✅ File claims promptly (within 48 hours of damage) ✅ Document everything (photos, receipts, weather data) ✅ Mitigate further damage (tarp, buckets, move valuables) ✅ Get multiple contractor estimates (compare scope/pricing) ✅ Be present during adjuster inspection (point out all damage) ✅ Read your policy (know what’s covered before filing) ✅ Keep maintenance records (proves proper care) ✅ Dispute low settlements (60-70% of disputes succeed) ✅ Complete repairs within 365 days (to claim recoverable depreciation)

DON’Ts

❌ Don’t file small claims (pay out-of-pocket for repairs under $5,000) ❌ Don’t sign “Assignment of Benefits” (AOB) (contractor fraud red flag) ❌ Don’t let contractor “handle insurance” (lose control of claim) ❌ Don’t make permanent repairs before adjuster inspects (they need to see damage) ❌ Don’t accept first settlement without review (60% are lowball offers) ❌ Don’t cash check if amount is wrong (acceptance = waiving dispute rights) ❌ Don’t exaggerate damage (insurance fraud = policy cancellation + criminal charges) ❌ Don’t miss deadlines (most policies require notice within 48-72 hours) ❌ Don’t skip wind mitigation (leaving 40% premium savings on table) ❌ Don’t ignore non-renewal notices (you have 60-90 days to find new coverage)

Red Flags That Get Claims Denied

1. “Free roof inspection” from door-knockers after storm

The scam:

• Contractor knocks door after hurricane
• Offers “free inspection” (finds “damage” even if none exists)
• Pressures you to sign AOB (Assignment of Benefits)
• Files inflated insurance claim
• You’re stuck with contractor (can’t fire them)

Result: Claim denied for fraud, policy cancelled, you’re blacklisted.

How to avoid: Only use licensed FL contractors you research yourself (not door-knockers).

2. Filing multiple small claims

The problem:

• 2+ claims in 3 years = “high-risk” policyholder
• Insurers non-renew or raise premiums 50-100%
• Future insurers see claims history (CLUE report)

Example:

• 2022: $3,000 leak repair claim
• 2023: $2,500 wind damage claim
• 2024: Non-renewal notice ❌

How to avoid: Pay out-of-pocket for repairs under $5,000 (save claims for major damage $10,000+).

3. Poor documentation

Claims denied for:

• “Can’t prove damage occurred during covered event”
• “No evidence of proper maintenance”
• “Pre-existing damage not disclosed”

How to avoid: Annual inspections + photo documentation + receipts.

FAQ: Florida Roof Insurance Coverage

Will insurance pay for a new roof if mine is 20 years old?

Short answer: Probably not (unless you have a covered peril like hurricane damage).

Long answer:

• If storm damage: Yes, but you’ll get Actual Cash Value (ACV) with 50-70% depreciation. On a $15,000 roof, expect $4,500-$7,500 payout (you pay remaining $7,500-$10,500).
• If wear/tear: No. Aging is not a covered peril.
• If 20+ years on Citizens Insurance: You may be required to replace within 1 year or lose coverage.

Best move: Replace proactively at year 14-15 (before depreciation destroys your coverage).

Can I get full replacement cost coverage on a 15-year-old roof?

Unlikely. Most Florida insurers switch from RCV (Replacement Cost Value) to ACV (Actual Cash Value) at year 10-15.

Exceptions:

• Premium policies (higher cost, but some offer RCV up to 20 years)
• Metal/tile roofs (some insurers extend RCV to 15 years for durable materials)
• Wind mitigation credits (some insurers offer RCV if full wind mitigation completed)

Check your policy declarations page (shows “RCV” or “ACV” for roof coverage).

How much does wind mitigation save on insurance?

Premium discount: 10-45% depending on features.

Example:

• Annual premium (no mitigation): $6,000
• After full wind mitigation: $3,300-$3,600
• Annual savings: $2,400-$2,700
• 5-year savings: $12,000-$13,500 ✅

Cost of wind mitigation inspection: $75-$150 (one-time).

Break-even: 2-4 weeks of premium savings.

What is a hurricane deductible and when does it apply?

Hurricane deductible = 2-10% of your dwelling coverage (NOT a flat amount).

Example:

• Dwelling coverage: $400,000
• Hurricane deductible: 5%
• Your deductible: $20,000 ⚠️

When it triggers:

• National Hurricane Center declares tropical storm/hurricane
• Storm makes landfall within 100 miles
• Applies for 72 hours after declaration

Non-hurricane wind/storm deductible: $1,000-$5,000 (normal deductible).

The shock: Most Tampa Bay homeowners don’t realize their hurricane deductible is 10-20X higher.

Should I file an insurance claim or pay out-of-pocket?

File claim if: ✅ Damage exceeds $10,000 (major roof replacement) ✅ Storm damage (covered peril) ✅ You have RCV coverage (minimal depreciation) ✅ No claims in past 5 years (won’t trigger non-renewal)

Pay out-of-pocket if: ❌ Damage under $5,000 (avoid claims history) ❌ Roof age 15+ years (heavy depreciation makes claim not worth it) ❌ You’ve filed 1+ claims in past 3 years (avoid non-renewal) ❌ Deductible is close to repair cost (not worth the claim record)

Example:

• Repair cost: $3,500
• Your deductible: $2,500
• Insurance pays: $1,000
• But: Claim on record for 7 years (affects future insurability)

Better move: Pay $3,500 out-of-pocket, keep clean claims record.

Do I need a 4-point inspection to get insurance?

Yes, if:

• Buying a home built before 1990
• Roof age 15+ years
• Switching insurers
• Applying to Citizens Insurance

What 4-point inspection checks:

1. Roof (age, condition, remaining lifespan)
2. Electrical (panel type, wiring, safety)
3. Plumbing (pipe material, leaks, water heater)
4. HVAC (age, condition, functionality)

Cost: $150-$300

Why insurers require it: Identifies major risks before issuing policy.

If inspection fails: You may need to replace roof, rewire electrical, or re-pipe plumbing to get coverage.

Will insurance cover a roof with granule loss?

It depends on the CAUSE.

Covered (if sudden): ✅ Granule loss from hail impact (bruised shingles) ✅ Granule loss from wind damage (shingles torn/lifted)

NOT covered (if gradual): ❌ Granule loss from UV aging (normal wear) ❌ Granule loss from poor ventilation (attic heat damage) ❌ Granule loss from manufacturer defect (warranty claim, not insurance)

How adjusters decide:

• Isolated granule loss (one area) = likely covered (storm damage)
• Uniform granule loss (entire roof) = likely denied (aging)

If denied: Check manufacturer warranty (some cover premature granule loss).

Can I choose my own roofing contractor or does insurance assign one?

You can choose your own contractor. Insurance cannot force you to use their “preferred” roofer.

Best practice:

1. Get 3 estimates from licensed FL contractors
2. Submit all estimates to insurance
3. Negotiate if insurance estimate is lower
4. Choose contractor YOU trust (not insurance recommendation)

Avoid: ❌ Contractors who offer to “waive your deductible” (insurance fraud) ❌ Contractors who pressure you to sign Assignment of Benefits (AOB) ❌ Contractors who say “we’ll handle insurance” (you lose control)

Your right: Florida law allows you to choose any licensed contractor.

How long do I have to file an insurance claim after storm damage?

Most policies require:

• Immediate notice (24-48 hours) of damage
• Formal claim filed within 1 year of damage

Best practice:

• File claim within 48 hours of storm
• Document damage immediately (photos, video)
• Get emergency tarping (save receipts)

If you miss deadline: Claim may be denied for “late notice.”

Check your policy: Exact deadlines vary (read “Duties After Loss” section).

What happens if my claim is denied?

You have 3 options:

1. Request internal review (with insurer)

• Submit additional documentation (photos, contractor estimates, weather data)
• Request re-inspection
• Cite policy language (prove damage is covered)

2. Hire a public adjuster

• They negotiate on your behalf (10-20% fee)
• Success rate: 60-70% of denials overturned

3. File complaint with Florida Department of Financial Services

• Free state mediation service
• File at myfloridacfo.com/division/consumers
• State investigates insurer practices

4. Hire attorney (last resort)

• Sue insurer for “bad faith” denial
• Attorney fees may be covered by policy (if you win)

Timeline: Most disputes resolve within 60-180 days.

🎯 Rain Right Roofing: Honest Insurance Claim Support

We’ve processed 3,500+ Tampa Bay insurance claims since 2007.

What we do for you:

✅ Detailed damage assessment (what’s covered vs not covered) ✅ Help document damage (photos, measurements, scope of work) ✅ Provide accurate estimates (itemized, matches adjuster format) ✅ Explain your policy (RCV vs ACV, depreciation, deductibles) ✅ Attend adjuster inspections (point out all damage) ✅ Help dispute low settlements (provide supplemental documentation) ✅ Emergency tarping/mitigation (prevent further damage)

What we DON’T do:

❌ We don’t ask you to sign Assignment of Benefits (AOB) ❌ We don’t file claims for you (you maintain control) ❌ We don’t pressure you (honest assessment of coverage) ❌ We don’t inflate damage (only document real damage)

Why homeowners trust us:

• Licensed FL contractor (CCC1333021)
• A+ BBB rating (zero complaints)
• 4.9/5 stars (890+ Google reviews)
• No upfront payment (work with your insurance timeline)

Get honest roof assessment for insurance claim:

📞 Call: (727) 329-5063 📧 Email: info@rainrightroofing.com 🌐 Online: rainrightroofing.com/roof-inspection

Free roof inspection for storm damage (we’ll tell you honestly if insurance will cover it).

Related Resources

Need more help?

📚 How to Know If You Need a New Roof Tampa Bay - 10 warning signs your roof needs replacement

📚 Roof Leak Emergency? What to Do Tampa Bay - 8-step emergency action plan

📚 Questions to Ask Roofing Contractor Tampa Bay - 15 critical questions to avoid scams

📚 How Long Does a Roof Last in Florida? - Lifespan by material (Florida vs national averages)

This guide is based on 3,500+ Tampa Bay insurance claims processed by Rain Right Roofing (2007-2026). Insurance policies vary—always read your specific policy declarations and consult a licensed public adjuster or attorney for claim-specific advice.

Last updated: January 24, 2026