A denial letter is the insurance company’s decision about your claim, but it is not always the final word. Your next steps depend on the exact reason the insurer gave and on whether you disagree about coverage, the amount, or the cause of the damage.
Either way, your roof still needs attention. Remi can give you a written, itemized scope and quote, explain where it differs from the insurer’s estimate, and repair or replace the roof you decide to move forward with. As your roofer, we don’t interpret your policy or negotiate the claim; this responsibility belongs to you, an attorney, or a licensed public adjuster where your state allows.
Who handles what after a denial
Who handles what after a roof insurance claim is denied
| Question | What they can do | What they do not decide |
|---|---|---|
| You, the policyholder | Reading the letter, gathering evidence, asking the insurer to reconsider, and choosing who to hire | The insurer’s coverage decision |
| The insurance company | Explaining the denial in writing, reviewing new documentation, and deciding coverage and payment | The roofing contractor you choose |
| Remi | Preparing a written scope and quote, explaining the construction side, and repairing or replacing the roof you authorize | Interpreting your policy, negotiating the claim, or representing you as a public adjuster |
| Appraisal | Settling a disagreement about the amount of a covered loss, when your policy includes it | Whether the policy covers the damage |
| A public adjuster | Representing you, preparing the claim, and negotiating with the insurer, for a fee you pay | Doing the construction work on your roof |
| Your state insurance department | Reviewing complaints about claim handling, delays, or denials | Usually not factual disputes, such as whether a storm or wear caused the damage |
| An attorney | Legal advice, lawsuits, and representation where a public adjuster is not allowed | Roofing work |
Start with the reason in the denial letter
Insurers generally have to tell you why your claim was denied. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) model claims regulation (opens in a new tab), a model that states can adopt, says an insurer should not deny a claim on a specific policy provision unless the denial refers to it, and that the denial must be in writing. Texas law (Insurance Code §542.056 (opens in a new tab)) says that if the insurer rejects the claim, its notice must state the reasons.
The Colorado Division of Insurance (opens in a new tab) tells homeowners to get a written letter explaining the reason for a denial and the specific policy language behind it. Ask for any partial denial in writing too, as the NAIC’s Post-Disaster Claims Guide (opens in a new tab) recommends.
Compare the letter with your policy. Find the provision it cites. If the letter does not identify a provision, ask the insurer in writing which policy language the decision relies on. Everything you do next should answer that specific reason.
Why roof claims are denied or reduced
Most roof denials trace back to a short list of reasons:
- Age and wear. The Texas Department of Insurance reminds homeowners that an insurer won’t pay for a new roof just because the roof is old or worn out, and that damage that happens over time is not covered.
- Damage not tied to the storm. Colorado’s Division of Insurance warns that repair work for damage that was not part of the storm will not be covered.
- Cosmetic-damage limits. Minnesota’s Department of Commerce warned in 2022 that some carriers were using policy language that covers wind and hail damage only when siding or shingles are punctured or torn and no longer keep water out.
- Late notice. Many policies set deadlines to report a claim, and some have a one-year deadline unless you can show good cause for the delay.
- Repairs made too early. An insurer might deny a claim if permanent repairs are made before it sees the damage.
The first three are usually disputes about what caused the damage or whether it counts as covered damage. The last two turn on the policy’s conditions. Our guide to getting insurance to pay for a roof replacement explains what decides coverage in the first place. Sources for each point: TDI on roofs (opens in a new tab) and what policies won’t cover (opens in a new tab), Colorado’s hail advisory (opens in a new tab), Minnesota’s wind and hail alert (opens in a new tab), and TDI’s home insurance guide (opens in a new tab).
Gather evidence that answers the insurer’s denial reason
If the insurer says the damage came from wear rather than a storm, the most useful evidence ties specific damage to a specific date. Start with what you already have and add to it:
- Dated photos and video of the damage, taken safely from the ground, plus a written list of damage inside and outside the house.
- Storm records for your area and date. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Storm Events Database holds finalized National Weather Service storm data, and NOAA will certify a report on request. It runs a few months behind, so for a recent storm use the National Weather Service’s local storm reports, which are preliminary.
- A written, itemized estimate from a contractor that describes materials, prices, and labor line by line.
- A log of every call, email, and letter communicating with the insurer, including dates and names.
Texas regulators recommend photos and a damage list (opens in a new tab), the NAIC’s Post-Disaster Claims Guide (opens in a new tab) describes contractor bids line-by-line, and its complaint guidance (opens in a new tab) recommends keeping a record of all communication with your insurer. For storm data, the NOAA Storm Events Database (opens in a new tab) and the National Weather Service’s local storm reports (opens in a new tab) are the primary records.
A storm report shows that hail or wind was observed nearby. It does not prove your roof was damaged. Remi’s guide to reading a storm report explains what those reports can and cannot show about one address. Our storm damage inspection guide covers what a roof inspection should document.
What Remi can still do after a denial
Remi can give you a roof quote at any time, including after a denial. On our Proof and Credentials page, we explain that Remi inspects the roof before construction and gives you a written quote. That written, itemized scope is the kind of contractor estimate that the Texas Department of Insurance tells homeowners to send when they disagree with an adjuster’s estimate.
After a denial, Remi can:
- Prepare a written, itemized scope and quote that you can send to your insurer. Remi measures roofs from aerial imagery and other property data, so a first quote may not need an in-person visit.
- Review the insurer’s scope and explain, in plain language, where it differs from our construction scope.
- Inspect the roof before construction begins.
- Repair or replace the roof, whether or not insurance pays for it.
There was quite a bit of wind damage, but then the assessor for Remi found a lot of hail damage that I wasn't aware of.
One homeowner’s experience. An inspection finding is not a coverage decision; the insurer decides what the policy covers.
State law also sets limits on any roofer’s role. According to the NAIC’s Public Adjuster Consumer Outreach Notice (opens in a new tab), a model that states can adapt, contractors can prepare an estimate and scope of work and discuss it with their customer, but cannot negotiate the claim with the insurance company on the customer’s behalf or advise the customer on the policy’s coverage. Several states put that line in law. Texas bars a contractor from acting as a public adjuster on a property it may work on under Insurance Code Section 4102.163 (opens in a new tab). Minnesota (opens in a new tab), Florida (opens in a new tab), Missouri (opens in a new tab), and Arizona (opens in a new tab) have similar rules for contractors.
Remi works within those limits. We’ll explain the construction side of the difference between two estimates. We won’t tell you what your policy covers or argue your claim.
How to ask the insurer for a second look
The insurer may have missed something. The Texas Department of Insurance (opens in a new tab) advises informing the company why you disagree with the adjuster’s estimate and sending supporting documentation, such as a contractor’s estimate for the repairs.
When you and the adjuster cannot work it out, TDI instructs that you can ask the company to assign a different adjuster (opens in a new tab). The NAIC notes that it might help to have your contractor meet with you and the adjuster (opens in a new tab). If you want your contractor at the reinspection, tell the insurer ahead of time. Send your request in writing. Name the reason in the denial letter, list the evidence you are attaching, and ask for a written response.
When appraisal fits, and when it does not
Many policies include an appraisal clause. As the Texas Department of Insurance (opens in a new tab) explains, appraisal is for disputes about the amount of your claim, not about whether your policy covers a loss. The NAIC’s Post-Disaster Claims Guide (opens in a new tab) says the same thing: the appraisal process only determines costs, not if your policy covers these costs
.
This makes an appraisal a fit for a partial denial or a low payment on damage the insurer agrees is covered. It may not fit a full denial based on a policy exclusion, and whether it can settle a dispute over storm damage versus wear depends on your policy and your state. Check your policy for any deadline to demand appraisal.
Some states offer other routes. Florida’s state mediation program (opens in a new tab), for example, accepts disputes over what caused the damage as well as the amount offered.
What belongs to a public adjuster
A public adjuster works for you, not for the insurer or the roofer, and you pay the fee. Our guide to who is involved in a roof insurance claim explains the role in more detail.
Rules vary by state. Texas limits public adjuster commissions to 10% of the settlement, and TDI (opens in a new tab) notes that a public adjuster working on your claim cannot also be your contractor. Kansas (opens in a new tab) licenses public adjusters only for commercial claims; under a 2025 Kansas Attorney General opinion, public adjusting on home claims there is neither prohibited nor licensed. Illinois’s Department of Insurance (opens in a new tab) says many consumers find that the services public adjusters offer can be performed for free by trained insurance company staff.
Hiring a public adjuster does not change Remi’s role. The public adjuster presents your claim. Remi documents the roof, prices the construction, and does the work you authorize.
When to contact your state insurance department or an attorney
Your state insurance department can help when you believe the insurer mishandled your claim. The NAIC (opens in a new tab) explains that state departments can investigate complaints for free, including unfair claim delays or denials.
There are limits. The Texas Department of Insurance (opens in a new tab) says it cannot settle disputes about the facts, such as whether damage was caused by a storm or normal wear and tear. A complaint can push for fair handling; it does not replace your own evidence.
An attorney is the right call for legal advice or a lawsuit. TDI’s home insurance guide (opens in a new tab) notes that in Texas you must give the insurer written notice at least 61 days before suing over storm damage such as hail or wind. Your policy and state law set other deadlines, so ask early.
If the decision stands, you still have roofing options
A denied claim does not change what your roof needs. Remi repairs and replaces roofs, and a written quote tells you what the work will cost before you decide.
Remi’s guaranteed price means the price we quote is the price you pay, including common surprises such as damaged decking found during tear-off. Not every job has a guaranteed price, and your quote says when it does. A few exclusions apply; see the guaranteed price page. To spread the cost, Remi offers financing through lending partners, including soft credit check pre-qualification; approval depends on eligibility. You can also pay through escrow where funds are released to Remi as milestones are completed.
If a repair may be enough, ask for it. The difference between a repair and a replacement should be explained in the written scope.
Frequently asked questions
No. A roofer can inspect the roof, document what it finds, and give you a written estimate to send to your insurer. Many states bar a contractor from negotiating the claim or advising you on coverage. You, an attorney, or a licensed public adjuster where your state allows one, handle the claim itself.
Not necessarily. A public adjuster represents you and is paid by you, often as a percentage of the settlement. Compare the expected help with the fee, verify the license with your state insurance department, and know that some states limit or do not license public adjusters for homes.
Appraisal is a process in many policies for settling a disagreement about the amount of a covered loss. It does not decide whether the policy covers the damage. By contrast, you hire a public adjuster to prepare and present your claim to the insurer.
Yes. Remi repairs and replaces roofs as private projects too. We can give you a written quote, and when that quote has a guaranteed price, the price we quote is the price you pay. Financing through our lending partners may be available, subject to approval.
Usually. Your policy and your state’s laws set deadlines for disputing the decision, demanding appraisal, and filing a lawsuit. Read your policy, ask the insurer in writing, and contact your state insurance department if you are unsure.
Get a written roof scope before you decide
Whether you are asking the insurer to reconsider or planning the work yourself, a written scope gives you something specific to act on. Request a roof quote from Remi.
Sources
- 01Unfair Property/Casualty Claims Settlement Practices Model Regulation (opens in a new tab), National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 02Texas Insurance Code, Chapter 542 (opens in a new tab), Texas Legislature. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 03Consumer Advisory: Division of Insurance shares tips after severe hailstorm (opens in a new tab), Colorado Division of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 04Post-Disaster Claims Guide (opens in a new tab), National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 05Insurance and your roof (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 06Five things your home policy won’t cover (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 07Consumer alert: MN Commerce advises Minnesota homeowners to check insurance coverage for wind, hail limits (opens in a new tab), Minnesota Department of Commerce. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 08Home insurance guide (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 09Hail damage to your home or car? What to do next (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 10Storm Events Database (opens in a new tab), NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. Accessed 2026-08-29.
- 11Preliminary Local Storm Report (opens in a new tab), National Weather Service. Accessed 2026-08-29.
- 12How to File a Complaint (opens in a new tab), National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 13What if my insurance isn’t paying enough? (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 14Working with an insurance adjuster (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 15What You Need to Know When Filing a Homeowners Claim (opens in a new tab), National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Accessed 2026-09-29.
- 16Public Adjuster Consumer Outreach Notice (opens in a new tab), National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 17Texas Insurance Code, Chapter 4102 (opens in a new tab), Texas Legislature. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 18Minnesota Statutes 325E.66 (opens in a new tab), Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 19Florida Statutes 489.147 (opens in a new tab), Florida Senate. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 20Missouri Revised Statutes 407.725 (opens in a new tab), Missouri Revisor of Statutes. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 21Arizona Revised Statutes 32-1158.02 (opens in a new tab), Arizona State Legislature. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 22Mediation and Neutral Evaluation (opens in a new tab), Florida Department of Financial Services. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 23Public adjusters: What to know (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 24Public Adjusters (opens in a new tab), Kansas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 25Homeowners and Renters: Public Adjusters (opens in a new tab), Illinois Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 26How to get help with a homeowners or renters insurance complaint (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
- 27How to get help with an insurance complaint (video) (opens in a new tab), Texas Department of Insurance. Accessed 2026-10-12.
