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

Filing a roof insurance claim in Florida can feel overwhelming, especially in the aftermath of a hurricane or severe storm. The process involves multiple steps, strict timelines, and interactions with adjusters who are working for the insurance company rather than for you. Getting it wrong can mean leaving thousands of dollars on the table or having a legitimate claim denied.

This guide walks Pinellas County homeowners through every step of the roof insurance claim process, from initial damage documentation through final payment. We cover Florida-specific rules, timelines, and strategies that apply in 2026 following recent legislative changes.

Pinellas County Storm Patterns and Roof Damage

Understanding local storm patterns helps you know what damage to look for and when to inspect your roof:

• Hurricane season (June 1 to November 30): The primary source of major roof damage in Pinellas County. Hurricanes bring sustained winds of 74+ mph, torrential rain, and flying debris
• Summer thunderstorms (May through September): Daily afternoon storms can produce hail, microbursts, and localized wind damage. These storms cause more cumulative damage than many homeowners realize
• Tropical storms and depressions: Even systems that do not reach hurricane strength can produce 50-70 mph gusts that loosen shingles, damage flashing, and create entry points for water
• Winter cold fronts (December through February): While mild compared to northern states, strong cold fronts can bring 40-60 mph winds that cause damage to aging roofs

Pinellas County sits on a peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, making it vulnerable to storms approaching from multiple directions. The combination of salt air corrosion and regular wind events means roofs here take more punishment than inland Florida locations.

Step 1: Document the Damage Immediately

The single most important thing you can do for your claim starts before you ever call the insurance company. Documentation is everything.

What to Document

• Exterior photos: Photograph all visible damage from the ground. Include missing shingles, lifted flashing, dented gutters, fallen tree limbs, and debris impacts. Take wide shots showing the full roof and close-ups of specific damage
• Interior photos: Photograph any water stains, leaks, or damage to ceilings, walls, and attic spaces. Water intrusion damage supports the claim that the roof is compromised
• Video walkthrough: Record a narrated video walking around the property, pointing out all damage. This provides context that photos alone cannot
• Date and time stamps: Ensure your phone's date and time stamp feature is on. This proves the damage was documented close to the storm event
• Neighbor damage: If neighbors have visible roof damage, photograph it. This establishes that the storm affected your area broadly
• Before photos: If you have any recent photos of your home showing the roof in good condition before the storm, save them. Real estate listing photos and Google Street View historical images can serve this purpose

Temporary Repairs

Florida insurance policies require you to mitigate further damage. This means making temporary repairs to prevent water from entering your home through the damaged roof. Your insurer must reimburse you for reasonable temporary repair costs.

• Cover holes or missing shingle areas with tarps, secured properly
• Place buckets under active leaks and remove water to prevent mold
• Keep all receipts for tarps, supplies, and any emergency repair contractor costs
• Take photos before and after temporary repairs
• Do not make permanent repairs until the adjuster has inspected the damage

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company

File your claim as soon as possible. Under current Florida law, you have 2 years from the date of loss, but waiting weakens your claim. Insurers question why you did not file sooner, and additional weather events make it harder to attribute damage to a specific storm.

What to Have Ready When You Call

• Your policy number
• Date the damage occurred (specific storm date)
• Description of the damage you have observed
• Whether you have made temporary repairs
• Your preferred contact method and availability for the adjuster visit

Florida-Specific Filing Timelines

After a major hurricane, these timelines can stretch significantly due to the volume of claims. Following Hurricane Ian, some Pinellas County homeowners waited 4-6 months for initial adjuster visits. Having thorough documentation and a contractor estimate ready can help expedite your claim even during high-volume periods.

Step 3: Get a Contractor Inspection and Estimate

Before the insurance adjuster visits, get an independent inspection and estimate from a licensed roofing contractor. This is one of the most important steps that many homeowners skip or delay.

Why a Contractor Estimate Matters

• Identifies hidden damage: An experienced roofer will find damage that is invisible from the ground, including lifted shingle tabs, cracked underlayment, compromised decking, and damaged flashing
• Provides benchmark pricing: When the adjuster writes their estimate, you have a professional comparison. If the adjuster's number is significantly lower, you have documented grounds for a supplement
• Uses insurance-standard format: Contractors experienced with claims write estimates in Xactimate (the same software adjusters use), making apples-to-apples comparison straightforward
• Supports your claim: A licensed contractor's documentation carries weight during disputes and appeals

Most reputable roofing contractors in Pinellas County offer free storm damage inspections. They understand that providing a thorough inspection and estimate positions them to win the roofing job once the claim is approved. Be cautious of any contractor who charges for a storm damage inspection or pressures you to sign a contract before your claim is approved.

Step 4: The Adjuster Visit

The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect your roof damage. Understanding what happens during this visit and how to prepare can significantly impact your claim outcome.

Types of Adjusters

Preparing for the Adjuster Visit

• Be present: Never let the adjuster inspect your roof without you (or your contractor) there
• Have your contractor present: If possible, have your roofing contractor meet the adjuster. They can point out damage the adjuster might overlook and discuss repair methodology
• Provide your documentation: Give the adjuster copies of your photos, video, and contractor estimate
• Ensure roof access: The adjuster needs to physically inspect the roof. Make sure ladders can access all sides and the yard is clear
• Point out all damage: Do not assume the adjuster will find everything. Walk them through every area of damage you have documented
• Take notes: Write down the adjuster's name, company, license number, and any comments they make during the inspection

Common Adjuster Tactics to Watch For

Insurance adjusters are professionals doing their job, but their job includes controlling claim costs. Be aware of these common approaches:

• Attributing damage to wear and tear: Adjusters may claim that damage is pre-existing rather than storm-related. Your before-photos and contractor documentation counter this
• Partial replacement: An adjuster may approve repair or partial replacement when full replacement is warranted. If your contractor documents that damage affects more than 25-30% of the roof, full replacement is typically the appropriate scope
• Using lower-quality materials in estimate: The estimate should specify materials that match your current roof's quality and meet current Florida Building Code requirements
• Missing hidden damage: A quick inspection may miss damage to underlayment, decking, or components only visible after tear-off. This is where supplemental claims become important

Step 5: Review the Initial Settlement

After the adjuster's inspection, you will receive a claim settlement offer. Understanding what this document contains and how to evaluate it is critical.

Understanding Your Settlement Breakdown

A typical Florida roof insurance settlement includes:

• Replacement Cost Value (RCV): The full cost to replace your roof with similar materials at current prices
• Depreciation: A deduction based on the age and condition of your roof. A 15-year-old shingle roof might see 40-50% depreciation
• Actual Cash Value (ACV): RCV minus depreciation. This is your initial payment amount
• Deductible: Your policy deductible is subtracted from the ACV. Hurricane deductibles in Florida are typically 2-5% of insured value
• Recoverable Depreciation: The amount you can claim back after completing the roof replacement

Example Settlement Calculation

In this example, you receive $6,200 upfront and can recover the $8,800 depreciation holdback after completing the replacement. You are responsible for the $7,000 deductible out of pocket. If you need help covering the gap, see our guide on roof replacement financing options in Florida.

Step 6: Supplemental Claims

Supplemental claims (or "supplements") are additional requests for payment when the initial insurance estimate does not cover the full scope of work. Supplements are extremely common in Florida roofing claims and are a normal part of the process.

When Supplements Are Needed

• Hidden damage discovered during tear-off: Rotted decking, damaged underlayment, or structural issues that were not visible during the initial inspection
• Code upgrades required: Florida Building Code requirements that have changed since your roof was last installed (new underlayment requirements, enhanced fastening patterns, drip edge requirements)
• Scope disagreement: When the adjuster approved repair but full replacement is warranted based on the actual extent of damage
• Price discrepancy: When the adjuster's material and labor prices do not reflect current market costs in Pinellas County
• Missed items: Flashing, ridge vents, pipe boots, skylights, and other components that were damaged but not included in the original estimate

How to File a Supplement

1. Your contractor documents the additional damage with detailed photos and measurements
2. The contractor prepares a supplemental Xactimate estimate showing only the additional items
3. You or your contractor submits the supplement to the insurance company with supporting documentation
4. The insurer reviews and may send the adjuster back for re-inspection
5. Negotiations proceed until agreement is reached on the additional amount

A good roofing contractor experienced with Florida insurance claims handles supplemental claims as part of their service. This is one of the most important reasons to choose a contractor with specific insurance claim experience rather than simply the lowest bidder.

Step 7: Recovering Your Depreciation Holdback

Once your roof replacement is complete, you are entitled to recover the depreciation that was withheld from your initial payment (assuming your policy includes Replacement Cost Value coverage, which most Florida homeowner policies do).

Steps to Recover Depreciation

1. Complete the roof replacement using a licensed Florida roofing contractor
2. Obtain the final invoice from your contractor showing the completed work and total cost
3. Submit the invoice and completion documentation to your insurance company
4. The insurer verifies the work was completed and releases the recoverable depreciation

Important Notes on Depreciation Recovery

• Time limit: Most Florida policies require you to complete repairs and submit documentation within 2 years of the loss date (some policies specify shorter windows)
• Must actually complete the work: You cannot pocket the depreciation holdback without doing the roof replacement
• Mortgage company involvement: If you have a mortgage, the insurance check is typically made out to both you and the mortgage company. The lender may hold funds in escrow and release them in stages as work progresses

Dealing with Claim Denials

If your roof insurance claim is denied in Florida, you have several options. Do not simply accept a denial without exploring your rights.

Common Denial Reasons

• Pre-existing damage / wear and tear: The insurer claims the damage existed before the storm event
• Maintenance exclusion: The insurer claims the damage resulted from lack of maintenance rather than a covered peril
• Policy exclusion: The specific type of damage is excluded from your policy (cosmetic damage exclusions are increasingly common)
• Late filing: The claim was filed outside the allowable window
• Roof age: Some policies reduce or eliminate coverage for roofs over a certain age (15-20 years for shingles)

Appeal Options

A Note on Litigation in Florida (2026)

Florida's insurance litigation landscape changed significantly with recent legislation. The elimination of one-way attorney fees (where insurers paid the policyholder's attorney fees if the policyholder won) has made litigation a less attractive option for smaller claims. However, for large claims or clear bad-faith denials, legal action remains a viable path. Consult with a Florida insurance attorney before pursuing litigation to understand the current cost-benefit calculation.

Public Adjuster vs. Contractor: Who Should Advocate for You?

This is one of the most common questions Pinellas County homeowners face after a storm. Both public adjusters and experienced roofing contractors can advocate for your claim, but they do so differently.

Public Adjusters

A public adjuster is a licensed insurance professional who works exclusively for policyholders (you). They inspect the damage, prepare their own estimate, negotiate with the insurance company, and manage the entire claims process on your behalf.

• Cost: Typically 10-15% of the total claim payout (negotiable, and Florida caps PA fees at 20% or 10% after a declared state of emergency)
• Pros: Deep knowledge of policy language and claims process, dedicated advocacy, handles all communication with the insurer
• Cons: Adds cost to the process, some PAs overpromise, quality varies significantly
• Best for: Complex claims over $20,000, denied claims, situations where you suspect bad faith from the insurer

Insurance-Experienced Roofing Contractors

Many roofing contractors in Pinellas County have dedicated insurance claim departments. They provide free inspections, write Xactimate estimates, attend adjuster meetings, and handle supplemental claims as part of their service.

• Cost: No additional fee (the service is included because they earn the roofing contract)
• Pros: No upfront cost, technical roofing expertise the PA may lack, handle supplements based on actual construction findings
• Cons: Their expertise is in roofing rather than insurance policy language, they cannot legally "adjust" your claim
• Best for: Straightforward storm damage claims, claims where the damage is clear and the dispute is over scope or pricing

When to Use Both

In some situations, using both a public adjuster and an experienced roofing contractor produces the best outcome. The PA handles the insurance negotiation and policy interpretation while the contractor provides the technical roofing expertise and construction documentation. This approach makes the most sense for large, complex claims where the combined cost is justified by a significantly higher payout.

Documentation Tips That Strengthen Your Claim

After working through thousands of Pinellas County roof claims, these documentation practices consistently lead to better outcomes:

• Photograph before every storm season: Take annual photos of your roof from all angles in clear weather. These "before" images are invaluable when proving storm damage
• Keep maintenance records: Documentation of regular roof maintenance (cleaning, minor repairs, inspections) defeats the "lack of maintenance" denial argument
• Save weather reports: Download and save local weather data showing the storm that caused damage, including wind speeds, hail reports, and severe weather warnings for Pinellas County
• Record everything in writing: After phone calls with the insurance company, send a follow-up email summarizing what was discussed. This creates a paper trail
• Do not discard damaged materials: If shingles or other materials blow off, save them as physical evidence. Photograph them where they landed before collecting them
• Get a second opinion: If one contractor says your roof is fine after a storm, get a second inspection. Damage is not always obvious to every inspector

Common Mistakes That Hurt Your Claim

1. Waiting too long to file: Every week you wait gives the insurer more reason to question the claim
2. Making permanent repairs before the adjuster visits: Temporary repairs are fine and required, but do not replace the roof before documentation
3. Accepting the first offer without review: The initial settlement is often lower than what you are entitled to. Have your contractor review it
4. Not being present during the adjuster visit: If you are not there (or your contractor is not there), damage gets missed
5. Signing an Assignment of Benefits without understanding it: AOB transfers your claim rights to the contractor. While Florida has added consumer protections, understand what you are signing
6. Forgetting to recover depreciation: Many homeowners leave the depreciation holdback on the table by not submitting completion documentation
7. Choosing a contractor based solely on price: A contractor experienced with insurance claims in Pinellas County will often recover thousands more through proper supplementation, far exceeding any price difference

Florida Insurance Market Reality in 2026

The Florida homeowners insurance market has undergone significant changes in recent years that affect how roof claims are handled:

• Carrier exits and rate increases: Multiple national insurers have left Florida, and remaining carriers have increased premiums substantially. This makes it even more important to maximize legitimate claims since you are paying more for the coverage
• Roof age requirements: Many Florida insurers now require roof inspections for policies on homes with roofs over 15 years old. Some will not write new policies on homes with roofs over 20 years
• Citizens Property Insurance: Florida's insurer of last resort has grown significantly. Citizens has specific claim procedures and timelines that differ from private carriers
• Litigation reform impact: The reduction in policyholder attorney fee recovery means negotiation and mediation are more important than ever as first-line dispute resolution tools

After Your Claim: Next Steps

Once your claim is approved and funded, choosing the right roofing material and contractor is your next major decision. Consider using the insurance-funded replacement as an opportunity to upgrade your roof's wind resistance and energy efficiency. While insurance covers like-for-like replacement, you can pay the difference to upgrade to standing seam metal or impact-resistant materials that will better protect your home in the next storm and may increase your home's value.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Under current Florida law, homeowners must file property insurance claims within 2 years of the date of loss. This was reduced from 3 years by Senate Bill 2A in 2022. For hurricane damage, the clock starts on the date the hurricane made landfall or caused damage to your property. Do not wait. Filing promptly strengthens your claim and gives you more time for supplements and appeals if needed.

Should I get a contractor estimate before filing a roof insurance claim?

Yes. Having a detailed contractor estimate before or alongside your insurance claim gives you leverage during the adjuster visit. A licensed roofing contractor experienced with insurance claims can identify damage the adjuster might miss and provide line-item documentation that supports a higher payout. Many Pinellas County roofers offer free storm damage inspections.

What is depreciation holdback on a roof insurance claim?

Depreciation holdback is the portion of your claim payout that the insurance company withholds until repairs are completed. Your initial payment is the Actual Cash Value (replacement cost minus depreciation). After you complete the roof replacement and submit the final invoice, the insurer releases the remaining recoverable depreciation. On a 15-year-old shingle roof, the holdback can be 30-50% of the total claim value.

Can I appeal a denied roof insurance claim in Florida?

Yes. You have several options: request a re-inspection with your contractor present, file a formal appeal through the insurer's internal process, participate in mediation through the Florida Department of Financial Services, file a complaint with the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, or file a lawsuit (though recent Florida legislation has limited attorney fee recovery for policyholders).

Should I hire a public adjuster for my roof claim?

A public adjuster can be worth the 10-15% fee on complex or high-value claims, especially if your insurer is lowballing the payout or has denied a legitimate claim. For straightforward storm damage claims in Pinellas County, a roofing contractor experienced with insurance claims can often achieve similar results without the additional cost. Consider a public adjuster if the claim exceeds $20,000 or if the insurer has already denied or significantly underpaid your claim.

How long does the roof insurance claim process take in Florida?

Under Florida law, insurers must acknowledge your claim within 14 days, begin investigation within 10 days of acknowledgment, and approve or deny within 90 days (60 days for hurricane claims). In practice, straightforward Pinellas County claims are typically resolved in 30-60 days. Complex claims involving supplements, re-inspections, or disputes can take 3-6 months or longer.