What happens if my roof claim is denied?
Short answer. If your roof claim is denied, the insurer pays nothing on it, the claim still shows in your insurance claim history, and the roof's problems remain yours to fix. You can still challenge the decision with new evidence, a reinspection or a complaint, and in Georgia you may be able to cancel a roofing contract that depended on approval.
The immediate effects
- No payment on the denied claim, or only on any parts the insurer accepted.
- A claim record. Claims are generally reported to industry claim history databases, such as CLUE reports, even when nothing is paid, and future insurers can see them. You are entitled to a free copy of your own report each year.
- The roof still needs attention. Wear or a leak keeps getting worse, and leaving it unrepaired can hurt later claims and renewals.
Your contract with a roofer
Georgia law gives homeowners a right to cancel a residential roofing contract that depends on insurance coverage if the claim is denied. Read your contract for the notice requirements and window, and cancel in writing.
Premiums and renewal
Whether a denied claim affects your premium depends on the insurer; some underwriting looks at how many claims were filed, paid or not. If the denial cited wear or deterioration, the insurer may also look harder at roof condition at renewal. See does a roof claim raise premiums.
Your options
- Challenge it with better evidence and a written reinspection request.
- Complain to the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.
- Consult a public adjuster or an attorney.
- If the denial was right, plan the repair or replacement and compare financing options.
Step by step help is in roof claim denied: what to do.