Finding out that your insurance company has denied your roof claim can be incredibly frustrating—especially when you’re facing roof damage after a storm. At Shepherd Roofing & Renovations, we’ve seen it happen to countless homeowners across Texas. The good news? A denied claim doesn’t always mean you’re out of options.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your insurance denied your roof claim, and how you can still protect your home and investment.
Step 1: Understand Why the Claim Was Denied
The first thing you need to do is find out exactly why your claim was denied. Common reasons insurance companies deny roof claims include:
Pre-existing damage (damage that existed before the event you’re claiming)
Wear and tear (damage from age, not a specific storm or event)
Improper maintenance (failure to maintain the roof properly)
Policy exclusions (certain events like floods or specific types of wind damage may not be covered)
Insufficient evidence (lack of clear proof that storm damage occurred)
Ask your insurance adjuster to provide a written explanation of the denial. This documentation will be critical for your next steps.
Step 2: Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
Take the time to carefully review your insurance policy. Look for key details such as:
What types of damage are covered
Specific exclusions or limitations
Any deadlines for filing an appeal
The process for disputing a claim
Sometimes, the denial is based on a misunderstanding of the policy terms—or a mistake by the adjuster.
Step 3: Get a Second Opinion from a Roofing Professional
Before accepting the denial, schedule a roof inspection with a trusted, local roofing company like Shepherd Roofing & Renovations. A second, unbiased inspection can:
Identify overlooked damages that may not have been noted by the insurance adjuster
Provide documented evidence (photos, written reports) that strengthens your case
Help you better understand the true condition of your roof
Many insurance adjusters are not roofing experts. A professional roofing contractor can often find legitimate damage that an adjuster missed—or miscategorized.
Step 4: File an Appeal or Request a Re-inspection
If you believe the claim was unfairly denied, you have the right to appeal. This usually involves:
Submitting new evidence (photos, contractor reports, estimates)
Writing a formal letter requesting a re-evaluation of the claim
Asking for a different adjuster to conduct a second inspection
At Shepherd Roofing & Renovations, we assist our clients through the re-inspection and appeal process, helping to advocate for fair coverage based on the true condition of your roof.
Step 5: Consider Hiring a Public Adjuster or Attorney
If your appeal is denied again—or if you’re facing significant pushback—you may want to hire a public adjuster or an attorney specializing in insurance claims.
Public adjusters work independently and can negotiate directly with your insurance company on your behalf.
Attorneys can help if the insurance company is acting in bad faith by unfairly denying or underpaying your claim.
While these options may involve additional costs, they can be worthwhile when dealing with expensive roof repairs or replacements.
Step 6: Plan for Repairs Either Way
Even if your claim is ultimately denied, it’s critical not to delay roof repairs. Ignoring damage can lead to:
Water leaks
Mold growth
Structural weakening
Higher repair costs down the line
Shepherd Roofing & Renovations offers flexible repair solutions and can help you find financing options if needed. Your home’s safety is the top priority.
Why Work with Shepherd Roofing & Renovations?
At Shepherd Roofing & Renovations, we’re more than just a roofing company—we’re your partner in navigating the stressful world of insurance claims. When you work with us, you get:
Expert Inspections: We thoroughly document storm damage with professional reports and drone footage if needed.
Insurance Claim Assistance: We walk you through the process and help advocate for your claim.
Top-Quality Workmanship: Whether it’s a minor repair or a full roof replacement, we deliver results you can trust.
If your insurance denied your roof claim, don’t give up hope. Contact Shepherd Roofing & Renovations today for a free second opinion here and let’s explore your next steps together.
