What happens if you don't claim your recoverable depreciation?
The money you leave behind
On a typical roof claim, recoverable depreciation can be thousands of dollars, and on an older roof it can approach half the job. Once the time limit passes, the insurer can close the claim at actual cash value.
Other consequences
- Future claims: damage that was paid but not repaired can be excluded the next time a storm hits.
- Renewal and underwriting: a visibly damaged roof can lead to an inspection, an actual cash value roof endorsement, or a non-renewal.
- Mortgage requirements: lenders named on the check often require repairs, and keeping the money can conflict with the mortgage terms.
- Selling the home: buyers and inspectors may spot unrepaired damage and ask about the claim history.
When people skip it on purpose
Some owners decide not to replace a roof and keep the actual cash value instead. That can be allowed when no lender requires the repair, but understand the trade-off before you choose it, especially if hail season is a few months away.
If you meant to claim it but forgot
Contact the adjuster right away, even if you think the deadline has passed, and send your invoice. Ask in writing whether the insurer will accept it.
If your question is about tax depreciation on a rental, that is a separate subject for a tax professional.
Related: recoverable depreciation on a roof, Georgia roof claim deadlines, and roof age and insurance.