Roof Insurance Claim Basics in Wichita, KS

A roof claim usually follows the same path: you report the damage to your insurer, an adjuster inspects the roof, the insurer decides what is covered and pays based on your policy terms, and you hire a roofer to do the work. Your policy, not the roofer, decides what gets paid. This page explains the common steps so you know what to ask. It is general information, not insurance or legal advice.

Should you call the insurer or a roofer first?

Many homeowners have a roofer inspect first to find out whether there is real damage worth claiming. Others call the insurer right away. Either way, report damage within the time your policy requires. A claim that's filed and then denied may still appear in insurance claim history databases, so it can be worth getting a professional opinion first. Ask your agent how your insurer handles that.

What do deductibles look like for hail and wind?

Many policies in Kansas use a separate wind and hail deductible, and some set it as a percentage of the dwelling coverage rather than a flat dollar amount. A percentage deductible can be larger than people expect. Find the number on your declarations page before you file so you can compare it to the likely repair cost.

What is the difference between ACV and RCV?

Replacement cost value (RCV) policies generally pay what it costs to replace the roof with similar materials, often in two parts: an initial payment, then the held-back depreciation after the work is done and documented.
Actual cash value (ACV) policies subtract depreciation for the roof's age, so an older roof may get a much smaller payment.
Some policies use a roof payment schedule or treat roofs differently once they pass a certain age. Read your roof-specific terms.

What happens during the adjuster visit?

The adjuster inspects the roof, soft metals, and other exterior damage and writes an estimate. It often helps to have your roofer there so both can point to the same hits and discuss items like vents, drip edge, flashing, and code-required work. Take your own notes and photos. Ask for a copy of the adjuster's estimate.

What if the estimate seems too low or the claim is denied?

Ask the insurer, in writing, to explain the decision and which policy language it relied on.
Have your roofer write up what they think was missed, with photos and measurements.
Ask about a re-inspection.
Read your policy's appraisal clause if it has one.
If you believe the insurer is not handling the claim fairly, the Kansas Insurance Department accepts consumer complaints about insurers and agents.

Can a roofer waive or cover your deductible?

Be very careful. A roofer who offers to "take care of" your deductible may be planning to inflate the bill to the insurer, which can be insurance fraud, and you could be part of it. You are responsible for paying your deductible. If someone makes that offer, ask your insurer and consider it a warning sign. See storm chaser warning signs.

Should you sign an assignment of benefits?

Some contractors ask homeowners to sign a document that assigns insurance benefits or lets the contractor deal with the insurer directly. Read anything like that very carefully, and ask your insurer or an attorney before signing. Make sure you can still talk to your insurer and see every estimate and payment.

Who gets the insurance check?

Insurance checks for roof damage are often made out to you and, if you have a mortgage, your lender too. Your lender may hold the money and release it in stages. Never sign over a check to a contractor before work is done.

How do we help?

We don't work for any insurer and we can't tell you what your policy covers. We can connect you with one independent local roofer who inspects the roof, documents the damage, and gives you a written estimate you can compare with the adjuster's. Start with a hail damage inspection or send a request.

Frequently asked questions

Will filing a roof claim raise my premium?

It can, depending on your insurer and claim history. Weather claims are often treated differently from other claims, but ask your agent how your insurer handles them.

Do I have to use the roofer my insurer suggests?

Generally you can choose your own contractor. Check your policy and talk with your insurer before you decide.

What does recoverable depreciation mean?

On many replacement cost policies, the insurer first pays the actual cash value and holds back depreciation. After the work is finished and documented, you can usually claim the rest. Ask your insurer about the deadline.

Who can help if my insurer won't respond?

Start with your agent and a written request to the insurer. If that doesn't work, the Kansas Insurance Department accepts consumer complaints about insurance companies.

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Roof Insurance Claim Basics for Wichita Homeowners