1. Document the damage
Photograph and video the roof, attic, ceilings, and any visible damage from multiple angles, with date and time stamps.
Roofing Guide
Florida Roof Insurance Claim Guide: Step-by-Step
A roof insurance claim feels intimidating. The process is straightforward when you know the order of operations: document, inspect, file, mitigate, meet, review, supplement, work, finalize. Here is how it works in Florida — and the common mistakes that delay or reduce a payout.
The 10-Step Process
From damage to final payment, in the order it actually happens.
2. Get a licensed roofer's inspection
A licensed Florida roofer provides a written scope, photo evidence, and cause-of-damage analysis you can share with the adjuster.
3. Review your policy
Confirm your hurricane deductible, RCV vs. ACV coverage, roof age limits, and exclusions before calling the insurer.
4. File the notice of claim
Call the claims line or file online. Provide the date of damage, a brief description, and photos. Get a claim number in writing.
5. Mitigate active damage
Tarp leaks, cover broken openings, and keep receipts. Florida policies require reasonable mitigation; these costs are usually reimbursable.
6. Meet the adjuster with your roofer
Schedule the adjuster inspection and have your roofer present so the scope and cause are documented the same way by both sides.
7. Review the adjuster estimate
Compare line items against your roofer's scope. Check for code upgrades, full underlayment, decking allowance, flashing, ventilation, and disposal.
8. Submit a supplement if needed
If items are missing or pricing is below local market, the roofer files a supplement with photos and documentation. Reasonable supplements are routinely approved.
9. Approve scope and schedule the work
Once the scope is agreed, sign the contract, schedule the work, and confirm material specifications match the approved estimate.
10. Recover depreciation
On RCV policies, the insurer holds back depreciation until work is complete. Submit final invoices to release the remaining payment.
Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value
The single most important coverage detail on a Florida roof policy.
Replacement Cost Value (RCV) pays what a comparable roof costs today, minus the deductible. Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays the depreciated value — which on a 15-year-old shingle roof can be a fraction of replacement cost. Many Florida insurers default to ACV on older roofs, so confirm your coverage before a storm rather than after.
- RCV: Pays full current replacement cost (in two parts)
- ACV: Pays depreciated value only — often half or less
- Deductible: Applies to all coverage types
- Roof age limits: Many carriers convert to ACV at 10–15 years
- Confirm before the storm: Ask your agent in writing
- Check at renewal: Coverage can change year to year
Mistakes That Reduce or Delay Claims
Avoid these common Florida claim missteps.
- Waiting weeks before filing the notice of claim
- No pre-storm photos or maintenance records
- Climbing a damaged roof and adding to the damage
- Letting active leaks continue without mitigation
- Accepting the first estimate without comparing scope
- Signing an assignment of benefits to a stranger
- Hiring an unlicensed contractor for the work
- Missing the supplement deadline
Insurance Claim FAQ
The most common questions Florida homeowners ask.
How does a roof insurance claim work in Florida?
A Florida roof claim starts with documentation, then a notice of claim filed with your insurer, an adjuster inspection, a written estimate, agreement on scope, and finally repair or replacement. On replacement-cost policies, the insurer pays actual cash value first and releases the depreciation portion after the work is completed.
Should I get a roofer's estimate before filing a claim?
Yes. A licensed roofer's inspection and written scope give you an independent baseline. It helps you understand what is actually wrong, document the cause, and have a knowledgeable advocate present when the adjuster inspects the roof.
What is the difference between replacement cost value (RCV) and actual cash value (ACV)?
RCV pays what it costs today to replace the roof, minus the deductible. ACV pays only the depreciated value, which on older roofs can be a fraction of replacement cost. Florida insurers increasingly default to ACV on roofs over 10 to 15 years old.
What is the Florida hurricane deductible?
Florida hurricane deductibles are typically 2%, 5%, or 10% of the home's insured value, applied only to damage from a named hurricane. On a $400,000 insured home with a 2% deductible, the homeowner pays $8,000 before insurance contributes.
How long do I have to file a roof claim in Florida?
Under current Florida law, homeowners generally have one year from the date of damage to file a notice of claim, and 18 months for a supplemental or reopened claim. Deadlines have changed multiple times — confirm your policy and current state law before assuming a window.
What is an assignment of benefits (AOB) and should I sign one?
An AOB transfers your right to receive insurance payment to a third party, usually a contractor. AOBs have been heavily restricted under Florida reforms because of past abuse. Avoid signing one unless you fully understand it. A reputable licensed roofer does not require AOB to do quality work.
What if my claim is underpaid or denied?
If the adjuster's estimate is too low or the claim is denied, your roofer can file a supplement with photos, code citations, and itemized scope. If the insurer still does not pay fairly, you can request a reinspection, escalate within the claims department, file a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services, or consult a public adjuster or attorney.
Can Hloska Roofing help with my insurance claim?
Yes. Hloska Roofing provides inspections, photo documentation, written scopes, and supplement support throughout the Florida claims process. Call 813-945-7663 or 727-241-7663 to schedule an inspection.
Need help with a claim?
Start with a free roof inspection and damage documentation.
Hloska Roofing inspects, photographs, and provides a written scope you can share with your insurance adjuster.