How Insurance Roof Claims Work in Texas: The Complete Homeowner's Guide

Texas insurance law is different, and it matters

Most homeowners don't realize Texas has some of the strongest policyholder protection laws in the country. Knowing them before you file is worth real money.

What the Texas Insurance Code does for you

The 15-day rule. Carriers have to acknowledge your claim within 15 calendar days of receiving it.

The 15-day decision rule. They must accept, deny, or request more info within 15 business days of getting all the documentation.

Two-year statute of limitations. You have two years from the storm date to file. A lot of damage doesn't show up immediately. You're covered.

Prompt Payment Act. If the carrier blows the timelines, they owe you 18% annual interest plus attorney's fees.

ACV vs RCV — the single most important thing in your policy

ACV (Actual Cash Value). Pays the depreciated value. On a 15-year-old roof, depreciation is big. You might see $6,000 on a $15,000 replacement.

RCV (Replacement Cost Value). Pays what it costs to actually replace with new material. This is what you want.

Most standard Texas policies include RCV, but it's paid in two stages:

1. Initial payment. The ACV — the depreciated value today

2. Recoverable depreciation. Released after you finish the work and submit documentation

That second check is what homeowners miss all the time. You have to actually complete the work, submit the final invoice, and request the release. Your contractor should walk you through it.

Deductibles

Texas policies increasingly use a percentage deductible for wind and hail instead of a flat dollar amount. A 1% or 2% deductible on a $400,000 home is $4,000 to $8,000 out of your pocket before coverage starts.

Know your deductible before you file. Your contractor's inspection should tell you whether the damage likely clears it.

This one's important. It's illegal in Texas for a contractor to waive, eat, or pay your deductible. Anyone offering to is breaking the law and violating your policy. It's a felony. Walk away.

The appraisal clause

If you and the carrier can't agree on the value, Texas policies include an appraisal clause. It's binding dispute resolution. Each side picks an independent appraiser, those two pick an umpire, and the majority rules.

It's a legitimate process, used often — especially on large commercial claims or complex residential ones. Your contractor can recommend experienced appraisers if it gets there.

Assignment of Benefits — read carefully

An AOB transfers your insurance rights to the contractor so they can bill the carrier directly.

Texas has specific rules around AOBs. Read any AOB before signing. A reputable contractor will explain exactly what's in it. We don't require AOBs in most situations.

The practical timeline

A well-run storm claim in Texas usually looks like:

• Day 1. Contractor inspection and documentation
• Day 2–3. Claim filed
• Day 10–20. Adjuster appointment (coordinated with your contractor)
• Day 20–30. Initial scope and ACV payment
• Day 30–60. Supplements for missed items
• Day 60–90. Work completed, final invoice submitted
• Day 90–100. Recoverable depreciation released

Timing varies by carrier and claim size. Big storm events stretch everything because adjuster volume goes through the roof.

What a good contractor does

• Documents damage before you file, not after
• Attends the adjuster meeting
• Reviews the scope and supplements legitimately missed items
• Walks you through the depreciation recovery
• Never asks you to sign rights you don't understand

If your contractor doesn't do those things, you're leaving money on the table.

Contact us for a free inspection. We'll tell you what you have, walk you through your options, and be there every step if you decide to file.