How to File a Roof Insurance Claim in Florida

Quick Answer

Florida Roof Insurance Coverage: What’s Covered vs Not Covered

What Florida Homeowners Insurance DOES Cover

Covered perils (roof damage):

• Hurricane and tropical storm damage
• Tornado damage
• Windstorm damage (non-hurricane)
• Hail damage
• Fire and lightning
• Fallen trees/debris
• Vandalism
• Sudden/accidental damage

Types of coverage:

• Roof replacement/repair
• Emergency temporary repairs (tarping)
• Interior water damage resulting from roof failure
• Damaged gutters/fascia/soffit (collateral damage)
• Code upgrades required for repairs
• Debris removal

What Florida Insurance Does NOT Cover

Excluded from coverage:

• Normal wear and tear
• Gradual deterioration
• Lack of maintenance
• Age-related failure
• Pre-existing damage
• Cosmetic damage (no functional impact)
• Improper installation (installer’s responsibility)
• Mold (unless directly caused by covered peril)

Depreciation factors:

• Roofs over 15 years: May receive Actual Cash Value (ACV) only
• Some policies have roof age exclusions (roofs over 20 years not covered)
• Depreciation reduces payout (recoverable after completion)

Step-by-Step: How to File a Florida Roof Insurance Claim

Step 1: Immediate Damage Documentation (Day 1)

Before touching anything:

Photo documentation (take 100+ photos minimum):

• Exterior roof damage (all four sides of house)
• Close-ups of specific damage (missing shingles, holes, cracks)
• Wide shots showing property context
• Neighboring property damage (proves storm severity)
• Interior damage (ceiling stains, water marks, standing water)
• Damaged belongings
• Time-stamped images (most smartphones auto-timestamp)

Video walkthrough (10-15 minutes):

• Narrated tour of all damage
• “This is [date/time], this damage occurred during [storm name]”
• Show extent of damage, water intrusion
• Document any emergency mitigation you perform

Create damage inventory:

• List all damaged areas
• Measurements (ceiling stain: 4ft × 6ft)
• Description (missing 15-20 shingles on south-facing slope)
• Estimated location (above master bedroom, northwest corner)

Emergency mitigation receipts:

• Tarps purchased: Save receipt
• Emergency roofer call: Get invoice
• Water extraction: Document cost
• Hotel stays (if uninhabitable): Keep all receipts

Step 2: Review Your Insurance Policy (Day 1)

Key sections to understand:

Dwelling coverage amount:

• This determines your hurricane deductible
• $300,000 dwelling = 2% hurricane deductible = $6,000 out-of-pocket

Hurricane deductible:

• Percentage-based (2%, 5%, 10%)
• Applies per storm event
• Check trigger definition (when does it apply?)

Roof depreciation schedule:

• Age 0-10 years: Usually full Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
• Age 10-15 years: May have depreciation with recoverable amount
• Age 15+ years: Often Actual Cash Value (ACV) only, 50-70% depreciation

Special endorsements:

• Law and ordinance coverage (pays for code upgrades)
• Extended replacement cost (pays above dwelling limit)
• Special roof coverage riders

Example policy scenarios:

*After $6,000 hurricane deductible

Step 3: File Your Claim (Within 72 Hours)

How to file:

Option 1: Phone (most common)

• Call your insurance company’s claims hotline (24/7)
• Have policy number ready
• Provide date/time of damage
• Description of damage

Option 2: Online/App

• Most major insurers have smartphone apps
• Upload photos directly
• File claim in 10-15 minutes

Option 3: Through Your Agent

• Call your insurance agent
• They file on your behalf
• Can provide guidance on process

Information you’ll need:

• Policy number
• Date and time damage occurred
• Description of event (Hurricane [Name], windstorm, fallen tree)
• Extent of damage (rough estimate)
• Contact information
• Temporary address (if home uninhabitable)
• Any emergency repairs already made

What insurance will ask:

1. “Was anyone injured?” (Changes claims process significantly)
2. “Is the home habitable?” (Determines additional living expense coverage)
3. “Have you taken steps to prevent further damage?” (Required by policy)
4. “Do you know the cause of damage?” (Storm, age, maintenance issue)

Get claim number and adjuster contact info:

• Write down claim number (reference for all communications)
• Ask for adjuster assignment timeline
• Request direct adjuster contact when assigned

Step 4: Get Independent Contractor Inspection (Within 7 Days)

Why you need your own inspection:

• Insurance adjuster works for insurance company (goal: minimize payout)
• Your contractor works for you (goal: comprehensive repair)
• Independent estimates find 20-40% more damage on average
• Provides negotiating leverage

Professional inspection includes:

• Roof-level assessment (adjusters often stay on ground)
• Attic inspection for hidden damage
• Decking condition evaluation
• Measurements and photos
• Detailed repair scope
• Itemized cost estimate
• Code upgrade requirements
• Timeline for repairs

Cost: $200-400 (typically credited toward repairs if you hire contractor)

Rain Right offers: Free insurance claim inspection (waived if you proceed with repairs)

What to look for in contractor:

• Florida state license (verify at myfloridalicense.com)
• Local business (physical address, not PO box)
• Experience with insurance claims
• References from recent claim work
• Clear written estimates

Step 5: Meet with Insurance Adjuster (7-21 Days After Claim)

Adjuster timeline:

• Normal situations: 7-14 days
• Major storms: 14-30 days (overwhelmed capacity)
• Florida law requires response within “reasonable time”

Prepare for adjuster visit:

Schedule at your convenience:

• Daylight hours (best lighting for assessment)
• When you can be present (don’t let them inspect alone)
• Have your contractor present if possible

What adjuster will do:

• Exterior inspection (may or may not climb on roof)
• Interior inspection (affected areas)
• Take photos and measurements
• Ask questions about damage timeline
• Assess cause (storm vs wear-and-tear)
• Estimate repair costs

Your role during inspection:

1. Walk them through all damage - Don’t assume they’ll find everything
2. Point out details - Stains, soft spots, hidden damage
3. Reference your documentation - Show your photos
4. Take notes - What they measure, what they photograph
5. Ask questions - “Will this be covered?” “Why are you noting that?”
6. Get their contact info - Business card, direct phone/email

Common adjuster mistakes to watch for:

• Underestimating square footage (measure yourself)
• Missing interior damage (insist they check attic)
• Not accounting for code upgrades (required by law)
• Using outdated pricing (contractors know current rates)
• Classifying storm damage as “wear and tear” (challenge this)

Your rights:

• You can have anyone present (contractor, public adjuster)
• You can take photos/video during inspection
• You can request second inspection
• You can dispute findings
• You can request supervisor review

Step 6: Review Settlement Offer (7-14 Days After Inspection)

What settlement letter includes:

Estimate of repairs:

• Line-item breakdown
• Material costs
• Labor costs
• Total replacement cost value (RCV)

Deductions:

• Hurricane deductible (percentage of dwelling)
• Depreciation (if roof is older)
• Prior damage exclusions

Payment breakdown:

• Actual Cash Value (ACV) - paid upfront
• Recoverable Depreciation - paid after completion
• Total payout

Example settlement letter:

Roof Replacement Cost (RCV): $18,000
Less: Hurricane Deductible (2% of $300,000 dwelling): -$6,000
Less: Depreciation (12-year-old roof, 30%): -$5,400
Actual Cash Value Payment (ACV): $6,600

Recoverable Depreciation (after completion proof): $5,400
Total Covered Amount: $12,000
Your Out-of-Pocket: $6,000 (deductible)

Step 7: Negotiate Supplements (If Needed)

When to submit supplement:

• Contractor estimate significantly higher than settlement
• Hidden damage discovered during work
• Code upgrades required (not included in estimate)
• Collateral damage (gutters, fascia) not included

How to submit supplement:

1. Get detailed contractor estimate showing differences

2. Document reasons for cost differences:

   • Additional damage found during tear-off
   • Current material pricing vs adjuster’s outdated pricing
   • Code requirements (permit, inspection fees, required upgrades)
   • Labor rate differences (current market rates)

3. Prepare supplement package:

   • Cover letter explaining differences
   • Detailed contractor estimate
   • Photos of additional damage
   • Code documentation (ordinance citations)
   • Comparable pricing (from other jobs)

4. Submit to adjuster (email or claims portal)

5. Follow up in 7-10 days if no response

Common supplement items:

• Decking replacement (discovered during tear-off): +$800-2,000
• Code upgrades (enhanced hurricane strapping): +$600-1,200
• Collateral damage (gutters, fascia): +$500-1,500
• Updated material pricing: +$1,000-3,000

Success rate: 70-80% of well-documented supplements approved

Rain Right provides: Free supplement preparation, insurance company communication, negotiation support

Step 8: Complete Repairs and Recover Depreciation

Once settlement accepted:

1. Sign contractor agreement (ensure it matches insurance scope)
2. Contractor pulls permits (required for insurance)
3. Work begins (typically 1-4 weeks after materials ordered)
4. Inspections pass (rough and final)
5. Work completed

Recovering depreciation holdback:

Documents needed:

• Final invoice from contractor (paid in full)
• Permit certificate of completion
• Photos of completed work
• Proof of payment (canceled check, credit card statement)
• Final inspection approval

Submit to insurance:

• Depreciation recovery request form
• Attach all documents
• Submit within policy timeframe (typically 180-365 days)

Payment timeline:

• Insurance reviews: 7-14 days
• Payment issued: 14-30 days after approval
• Total: 3-6 weeks for depreciation recovery

Understanding Florida Roof Insurance Depreciation

How Depreciation Works

Replacement Cost Value (RCV):

• What it costs to replace roof today
• Brand new materials, current labor rates
• $18,000 for typical Tampa Bay home

Actual Cash Value (ACV):

• RCV minus depreciation
• Accounts for roof age and condition
• $18,000 - $5,400 depreciation = $12,600 ACV

Depreciation factors:

• Age of roof (primary factor)
• Condition before damage
• Material type (shingles depreciate faster than tile)
• Maintenance history

Florida Roof Depreciation Schedules

Typical insurance company depreciation:

Some policies:

• No depreciation for roofs under 10 years
• Depreciation starts year 11, increases 2% per year
• Full depreciation (ACV only) for roofs 15+ years

Recoverable vs Non-Recoverable Depreciation

Recoverable depreciation (RCV policies):

• Insurance withholds depreciation amount
• You receive RCV minus depreciation minus deductible upfront
• After repairs completed, you submit proof
• Insurance pays depreciation amount
• You recover full cost minus deductible

Non-recoverable depreciation (ACV policies):

• Insurance pays ACV minus deductible
• No additional payment after completion
• You pay difference between ACV and actual repair cost
• Common for roofs 15-20+ years old

Example comparison:

RCV Policy (10-year-old roof):

• Replacement cost: $18,000
• Depreciation (20%): $3,600
• Hurricane deductible: $6,000
• Initial payment: $18,000 - $3,600 - $6,000 = $8,400
• After completion: Recover $3,600
• Total received: $12,000 (full cost minus deductible)

ACV Policy (18-year-old roof):

• Replacement cost: $18,000
• Depreciation (60%): $10,800
• Hurricane deductible: $6,000
• Payment: $18,000 - $10,800 - $6,000 = $1,200
• No recovery available
• You pay: $16,800 out-of-pocket for $18,000 roof

Florida Hurricane Deductibles Explained

How Hurricane Deductibles Differ from Regular Deductibles

Regular deductible:

• Fixed amount: $500, $1,000, $2,500
• Applies to most covered perils
• You choose amount when purchasing policy

Hurricane deductible:

• Percentage of dwelling coverage: 2%, 5%, 10%
• Applies only to hurricane/tropical storm damage
• Can be substantial: $6,000-$30,000+

When Hurricane Deductible Applies

Trigger events (varies by policy):

Most common: National Weather Service (NWS) declaration

• When NWS issues hurricane warning for your county
• Remains in effect until 72 hours after warning expires
• Damage during this window = hurricane deductible

Alternative triggers:

• Named storm within X miles of property
• Wind speeds exceed certain threshold (74 mph)
• Governor declares state of emergency

Check your policy trigger definition - varies by insurance company

Calculating Your Hurricane Deductible

Formula: Dwelling Coverage × Hurricane Deductible Percentage

Examples:

Find your deductible: Check policy declarations page

One Deductible Per Storm Event

Good news: Multiple claims from same hurricane = one deductible

Example:

• Hurricane damages roof: $18,000
• Same hurricane floods garage: $3,000
• Same hurricane breaks windows: $2,000
• Total damage: $23,000
• Deductible applied: $6,000 (once)
• Insurance pays: $17,000

Separate storms = separate deductibles:

• Hurricane Ian damages roof: $15,000, deductible $6,000
• Two weeks later, Hurricane Nicole damages siding: $5,000, deductible $6,000
• Total deductibles: $12,000 (two separate events)

Maximizing Your Florida Roof Insurance Claim Payout

10 Tips to Increase Your Settlement

1. Document excessively (can’t have too many photos)

• Take 100+ photos minimum
• Video walkthrough
• Before and after any cleanup
• Time-stamped images

2. File immediately (within 72 hours)

• Links damage clearly to storm
• Faster adjuster assignment
• Prevents “was it this storm or another?” questions

3. Get independent inspection BEFORE adjuster arrives

• Your contractor finds 20-40% more damage
• Sets your expectations
• Provides negotiating baseline

4. Have contractor present during adjuster visit

• Points out damage adjuster might miss
• Ensures thorough inspection
• Professional credibility

5. Review adjuster’s estimate carefully

• Check square footage measurements
• Verify material pricing
• Confirm all damage areas included

6. Submit supplement for additional damage

• Damage found during tear-off
• Code upgrades required
• Updated pricing

7. Know your policy inside and out

• Understand coverage limits
• Check for special endorsements
• Review exclusions

8. Don’t accept first offer if too low

• Insurance expects negotiation
• Well-documented supplements usually approved
• Get second opinion from contractor

9. Complete all repairs to recover depreciation

• Don’t pocket ACV payment and skip repairs
• Leave depreciation on table
• Must prove completion for recovery

10. Use licensed, insured contractor

• Insurance requires proper licensing
• Permits and inspections mandatory
• Warranty protects you long-term

Common Mistakes That Reduce Payouts

1. Waiting too long to file

• Weakens connection between damage and storm
• Insurance scrutinizes delayed claims
• Risk of denial

2. Not documenting damage before cleanup

• Can’t prove extent of damage
• Insurance may deny without evidence

3. Skipping independent inspection

• Relying solely on adjuster assessment
• Missing 20-40% of damage on average

4. Accepting settlement without contractor review

• May be undervalued
• Miss supplement opportunities

5. Using unlicensed contractors

• Insurance can deny claim
• No recourse if work is poor
• Voids manufacturer warranties

6. Not reading settlement offer carefully

• Miss depreciation clauses
• Overlook excluded items
• Sign away negotiation rights

7. Starting repairs before settlement agreed

• Can’t prove what damage existed
• Insurance may reduce payout
• Exception: Emergency temporary repairs (document first)

8. Not recovering depreciation

• Leave thousands on table
• Must submit proof of completion
• Have 180-365 days typically

Florida-Specific Insurance Claim Issues

Assignment of Benefits (AOB) - Use Caution

What is AOB:

• Contract assigning your insurance benefits to contractor
• Contractor deals with insurance directly
• You step away from process

Risks:

• Florida has major AOB fraud problems
• Contractors may inflate claims
• You remain responsible for deductible
• Can lead to litigation
• Insurance may non-renew policy

Better approach:

• You control claim process
• Contractor provides estimates
• You negotiate with insurance
• Pay contractor directly

When AOB might make sense:

• Emergency repairs needed immediately
• Can’t afford upfront costs
• Reputable contractor with proven track record

Roof Age Restrictions in Florida

Many Florida insurers have roof age limits:

Non-renewal or coverage limitations:

• Roofs 15+ years: ACV coverage only (no RCV)
• Roofs 20+ years: May not insure property
• Must replace roof to maintain coverage

Inspection requirements:

• Some insurers require roof inspection for homes over 15 years old
• Must provide proof of roof condition
• May require replacement to bind coverage

Citizens Property Insurance (state insurer):

• Last resort for those unable to get private insurance
• Often requires roof replacement for older roofs
• More lenient than private insurers

Law and Ordinance Coverage

What it covers:

• Mandatory code upgrades when repairing damaged roof
• Examples: Hurricane strapping, sealed deck, impact-resistant materials

Not all policies include this:

• Check your policy
• May be endorsement (additional cost)
• Typically 10-25% of dwelling coverage amount

Without law and ordinance coverage:

• Insurance pays for like-kind replacement only
• You pay for code upgrades out-of-pocket
• Can add $2,000-5,000 to roof replacement

Worth having: Code upgrades often required in Florida

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Florida roof insurance claim take?

Florida roof insurance claims typically take 30-90 days from filing to settlement, with an additional 14-30 days to receive depreciation recovery after completion. The timeline breaks down as: claim filed to adjuster assignment (7-14 days), adjuster inspection to settlement offer (7-21 days), negotiation period if needed (7-30 days), and repairs completion (14-45 days depending on scope). After major hurricanes affecting Tampa Bay, timelines extend significantly due to overwhelmed adjusters and contractor backlogs; expect 90-180 days total.

Florida law requires insurance companies to acknowledge claims within 14 days and begin investigation promptly, but “promptly” is undefined and interpreted as 30-60 days in normal circumstances. During catastrophic events (hurricanes affecting large areas), regulators allow extended timelines. To expedite your claim, file within 72 hours, provide comprehensive documentation upfront, respond immediately to all insurance requests, and hire an experienced contractor who can work efficiently with insurance companies.

The fastest claims involve recent roofs (under 10 years, no depreciation issues), clear storm damage (undisputed cause), and cooperative adjusters. The slowest claims involve older roofs (depreciation disputes), questionable damage timing (was it this storm or previous one?), and cases requiring appraisal or litigation. Emergency temporary repairs can begin immediately while claims process; don’t wait for settlement to prevent further damage.

Can insurance companies deny roof claims in Florida?

Yes, Florida insurance companies can deny roof claims for several valid reasons: damage from wear and tear or lack of maintenance (most common denial reason), pre-existing damage, cosmetic damage only (no functional impairment), damage outside policy coverage period, failure to file within policy timeframe, or suspected fraud. Denial doesn’t mean you have no recourse; many denials can be appealed with better documentation or contractor evidence.

Common denial scenarios in Tampa Bay: 1) Roof over 15 years old with granule loss and curling (wear and tear, not storm damage), 2) Filing claim months after hurricane (can’t prove causation), 3) Missing shingles on poorly maintained roof (should have been replaced already), 4) Cosmetic bruising on metal roof (functions fine, no leak), 5) Damage discovered during re-roof (pre-existing, not sudden event).

If your claim is denied, take these steps: request written denial with specific policy exclusion cited, get independent contractor assessment disputing their findings, review photos and documentation showing damage didn’t exist before storm, consider hiring public adjuster (10-15% of settlement but may recover denied claims), and consult with insurance attorney if denial seems improper. Florida Department of Financial Services can investigate complaints, though they don’t overturn decisions.

Proper documentation prevents most denials. Take photos of your roof’s condition annually (proves pre-storm condition), maintain records of maintenance and repairs, file claims immediately after storms, get professional assessment confirming storm damage vs wear and tear, and respond fully to all insurance company requests for information.

Should I hire a public adjuster for my Florida roof claim?

Hiring a public adjuster makes sense for complex claims (over $20,000 damage), disputed settlements (insurance offers far below contractor estimate), older roofs with depreciation issues, or if you’re uncomfortable negotiating with insurance. Public adjusters work for you (not insurance company), handle all claim paperwork and negotiations, and typically recover 20-40% more than homeowners get alone. However, they charge 10-15% of final settlement, reducing your net payout.

For straightforward claims on newer roofs (under 10 years old) with obvious storm damage and settlement offers matching contractor estimates, a public adjuster may not be necessary. Your contractor can provide similar support at no cost by preparing estimates, attending adjuster meetings, and submitting supplements. Many Florida contractors have extensive insurance claims experience and effectively advocate for homeowners without charging adjuster fees.

Consider a public adjuster if: initial settlement is $5,000+ below contractor estimate, insurance disputes causation (storm vs wear-and-tear), your claim is denied, or you’re overwhelmed by the process. They’re particularly valuable for hurricane claims where widespread damage creates adjuster shortages and rushed assessments. However, choose carefully; Florida has strict public adjuster licensing (verify at myfloridacfo.com) and some are more effective than others.

Our approach at Rain Right: we provide free claims assistance (estimate preparation, adjuster meeting attendance, supplement negotiation) as part of our service. If after our involvement your claim remains significantly undervalued or denied, we’ll recommend reputable public adjusters who specialize in roof claims. This gives you professional support without upfront costs, resorting to public adjuster only if needed.

What is recoverable depreciation and how do I get it?

Recoverable depreciation is the difference between Replacement Cost Value (RCV) and Actual Cash Value (ACV) that insurance withholds until you complete repairs. For example, a $18,000 roof replacement with $5,400 depreciation (30% on a 12-year-old roof) and $6,000 deductible pays $6,600 initially (ACV). After completing repairs and submitting proof, insurance releases the $5,400 depreciation, bringing your total payout to $12,000 (full cost minus deductible).

To recover depreciation, you must: 1) Complete all repairs (not just partial), 2) Pay contractor in full, 3) Submit final invoice showing payment, 4) Provide permit certificate of completion, 5) Submit photos of finished work, and 6) File depreciation recovery claim within policy timeframe (typically 180-365 days from initial payment). Insurance reviews documentation and issues additional payment within 14-30 days.

Many homeowners don’t realize they can recover depreciation or miss the filing deadline, leaving thousands on the table. For the $18,000 example above, not recovering the $5,400 depreciation means you effectively paid $11,400 out-of-pocket instead of $6,000. This is money you’re entitled to under RCV policies.

Not all policies offer recoverable depreciation. Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies pay depreciated amount with no recovery available; common for roofs 15-20+ years old. Check your policy declarations page for “RCV” or “replacement cost” coverage vs “ACV” or “actual cash value.” If you have ACV-only coverage, the initial settlement is your final payment, and you’ll need to pay the depreciation gap from your own funds.

How does roof age affect my Florida insurance claim?

Roof age significantly impacts Florida insurance claims through depreciation schedules, coverage limitations, and settlement amounts. New roofs (0-10 years) typically receive full Replacement Cost Value (RCV) with little to no depreciation, meaning after completing repairs you recover nearly the full replacement cost minus your deductible. Older roofs (10-15 years) face increasing depreciation (25-50%) but can still recover depreciation under RCV policies. Very old roofs (15+ years) often receive Actual Cash Value (ACV) only with 50-75% depreciation and no recovery option.

For example, hurricane damage to a 5-year-old roof requiring $18,000 replacement with $6,000 deductible pays $12,000 (full cost minus deductible). The same damage to an 18-year-old roof might pay only $1,200-3,600 due to 60-80% depreciation, requiring the homeowner to pay $14,400-16,800 out-of-pocket. Some Florida insurers won’t cover roofs over 20 years or require replacement as a condition of policy renewal.

Florida’s 2021 insurance reforms allowed insurers to impose stricter roof age requirements. Many carriers now require roof inspections for homes over 15 years old and may non-renew policies if roof doesn’t meet standards. Citizens Property Insurance (state-backed insurer) often requires roof replacement for coverage on older roofs. This creates a dilemma: pay for roof replacement proactively ($15,000-25,000) or risk inadequate coverage when damage occurs.

Best practice: If your roof is 12-15 years old and showing wear, consider proactive replacement before major storms. The investment provides full insurance coverage, better hurricane protection with modern materials, and 15-20% insurance premium discounts for impact-resistant shingles. Waiting until after damage may result in low claim payouts that don’t cover full replacement.

Can I choose my own roofer for insurance repairs in Florida?

Yes, Florida law guarantees your right to choose your own contractor for insurance repairs. Insurance companies cannot require you to use their “preferred” or “network” contractors, though they often suggest them. You control contractor selection, and insurance must pay fair market rates regardless of who performs the work. This right is critical for ensuring quality repairs; insurance-preferred contractors may prioritize insurance company relationships over homeowner satisfaction.

Using your chosen contractor provides advantages: you verify their licensing and reputation, you control communication and scheduling, you can ensure materials and methods meet your standards, and warranties go directly to you (not through insurance company). Contractor selection should be based on Florida state licensing (verify at myfloridalicense.com), local references, insurance claims experience, written warranties, and transparent pricing.

If your contractor’s estimate exceeds the insurance settlement, you can submit a supplement request with detailed justification. Most differences arise from: hidden damage discovered during work (insurance pays supplements for unforeseen damage), current material pricing vs adjuster’s outdated costs, code upgrade requirements, and comprehensive scope vs minimal repairs. Well-documented supplements are approved 70-80% of the time.

Insurance companies may pressure you to use their contractors with claims of faster processing or guaranteed pricing. Don’t fall for this. Faster isn’t better if quality suffers, and “guaranteed pricing” often means lowball estimates. Take time to vet contractors, get multiple estimates, and choose based on merit. The slight delay for proper contractor selection prevents years of problems from poor workmanship.

What should I do if the insurance settlement is too low?

If your insurance settlement is significantly below your contractor’s estimate (difference over $2,000-3,000), don’t accept it immediately. First, have your contractor prepare a detailed comparison showing line-item differences between the insurance estimate and actual costs. Common discrepancies include: outdated material pricing (insurance databases lag current market by 6-12 months), missing items (damage adjuster didn’t document), underestimated quantities (square footage, number of shingles), excluded code upgrades (required by law but not included), and low labor rates (insurance uses regional averages, not current contractor rates).

Submit a supplement request to your insurance company with: cover letter explaining differences, detailed contractor estimate with current pricing, photos of damage insurance missed, code requirement documentation (building department ordinances), and comparable pricing from other jobs. Send to your adjuster via email with read receipt, and follow up in 7-10 days if no response. Most supplements are resolved through negotiation; insurance approves some items, negotiates others.

If insurance denies your supplement without valid reason, escalate through these steps: 1) Request supervisor review (adjusters have limited authority; supervisors can approve more), 2) Invoke appraisal clause (your policy allows independent appraisal when you and insurance disagree on value), 3) File complaint with Florida Department of Financial Services (regulatory pressure), or 4) Consult insurance attorney (for large disputes over $10,000).

Florida’s prompt payment laws require insurance companies to pay undisputed amounts within specific timeframes (20 days for approved supplements). If they delay tactics or lowball inappropriately, legal assistance may be warranted. Many insurance attorneys work on contingency (paid from settlement increase) for claims over $15,000-20,000 in dispute.

Does filing a roof claim increase my Florida insurance rates?

Filing a roof insurance claim in Florida can lead to premium increases or policy non-renewal, though it depends on several factors: claim frequency (multiple claims in 3-5 years are red flags), claim amount (large claims impact more than small), cause of damage (hurricane claims less stigmatized than maintenance issues), and roof age after repair. Most Tampa Bay insurers allow one storm claim without premium increase, but second claim within 3-5 years often results in 15-30% premium increase or non-renewal.

Florida’s insurance market is volatile; carriers frequently non-renew policies regardless of claims due to statewide losses from hurricanes. However, claim-free homes have better chances of renewal and competitive rates. If your damage is minor (under $3,000-5,000) and your deductible is high ($2,500+), consider paying out-of-pocket to avoid claim reporting. For damage clearly exceeding your deductible by $5,000+, file the claim; that’s why you have insurance.

After hurricane damage, filing claims is unavoidable and expected. Insurance companies can’t selectively non-renew only those who filed hurricane claims (affects too many customers). However, they may non-renew entire ZIP codes or policy types. Your individual claim is less of a factor during widespread events. Small, questionable claims (roof damage claimed months after minor storm) draw scrutiny and may lead to non-renewal.

To minimize insurance impact after claims: maintain excellent roof condition going forward (prevents future claims), install impact-resistant shingles during replacement (15-20% premium discount offsets some increase), document all maintenance and repairs (shows you’re low-risk), shop insurance rates annually (if non-renewed, find competitive alternative quickly), and consider higher deductibles for future policies (lower premiums, signals you won’t file small claims).

How long do I have to file a roof insurance claim in Florida?

Florida law requires filing property insurance claims within 3 years of the damage (statute of limitations), but practical deadlines are much shorter. Most insurance policies require “prompt” notification, interpreted as within 72 hours to 2 weeks for sudden damage like hurricanes. For best outcomes, file hurricane roof claims within 72 hours of the storm while causation is clear. Filing weeks or months later invites scrutiny and potential denial; insurance will question whether damage occurred during the claimed storm or another event.

Hurricane deductible windows are another time consideration. Hurricane deductibles apply when National Weather Service (NWS) issues hurricane warnings and typically end 72 hours after warnings are lifted. Damage discovered and reported outside this window might qualify for your regular (lower) deductible instead of hurricane deductible, potentially saving thousands. However, you must prove damage occurred outside the hurricane period, which is difficult if you didn’t document roof condition before and after.

For gradual damage discovery (leak appears weeks after storm), file as soon as you discover it and clearly explain: “Leak discovered [date], believed caused by Hurricane [Name] on [storm date].” Insurance will investigate causation. If damage is confirmed storm-related, your claim proceeds normally. Delays beyond 30-60 days significantly weaken your case as wear-and-tear and other events could have contributed.

Best practice: Inspect your roof within days after any significant storm, even if no obvious damage. Minor damage (loose shingles, small holes) can go unnoticed but worsens over time. File claims promptly when damage is fresh and causation is clear. Taking annual roof photos establishes baseline condition, proving storm damage vs pre-existing issues. Our free post-storm inspections help Tampa Bay homeowners identify damage immediately after hurricanes, ensuring timely claim filing.