What should you do when the insurance company denied your roof claim?
Short answer. First protect the house from further leaks, then get the denial in writing along with the policy language cited and the adjuster's photos and estimate. Have the roof independently inspected; if the evidence supports a covered storm, send a written reinspection request, and if that fails, escalate to a complaint, a public adjuster or an attorney.
Week 1: Protect and gather
- Tarp active leaks and keep the receipts. More water damage only complicates a second look.
- Get the denial in writing if it came by phone, plus a full copy of your policy with endorsements.
- Ask for the adjuster's photo report, notes and any engineer's report.
Week 2: Get a second opinion
- Have a reputable local roofer inspect and photograph every slope.
- Compare their findings with the reason in the denial letter.
- Pull storm data for your address on the date of loss.
Weeks 3 and 4: Respond in writing
If the evidence supports a covered storm, send a concise letter with the claim number, the reason given, why you disagree, and labeled photos attached. Ask for a reinspection with your roofer present, and keep the tone factual.
If it still does not move
- File a complaint with the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.
- Consult a public adjuster or an insurance attorney, especially on larger claims.
- If part of the claim was accepted and the dispute is over amount, look at the appraisal clause.
Mind the clock
Policies usually limit how long you have to sue over a claim. See roof claim deadlines in Georgia. And if you signed a roofing contract that depends on claim approval, Georgia law generally lets you cancel it after a denial; check your contract for the window.