Why Roof Insurance Claims Get Denied & How to Fight Back
For many homeowners, dealing with roof damage is already stressful enough—but receiving a denied roof insurance claim can make matters worse. If your insurance company has rejected your claim, you might feel stuck, but the good news is that there are ways to fight back.
At Gemsco Roofing & Solar, we’ve helped countless homeowners navigate the insurance claim process while providing top-tier services like roof replacement, roof repair, and solar panel installation. In addition, our Green Roof Energy Program offers a game-changing solution that allows homeowners to get a new roof or roof repair at no cost by leveraging solar incentives and the 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
Let’s break down why insurance claims get denied, what you can do about it, and how you may be able to avoid the cost altogether.
Top Reasons Roof Insurance Claims Get Denied
1. Lack of Proper Maintenance
Insurance companies expect homeowners to maintain their roofs regularly. If they determine that roof leaks or structural damage resulted from neglect rather than an external event (like a storm), they may deny your claim.
🛠 How to Fight It: Regular roof inspections and repairs can serve as proof that you’ve maintained your roof. If your roof is aging and needs replacement, our Green Roof Energy Program can help you secure a new roof without out-of-pocket costs.
2. Pre-Existing Damage
If your insurer claims that the damage existed before your policy began, they may refuse to cover repairs. This is especially common for roofs with hidden damage from previous storms.
🔎 How to Fight It: Before filing a claim, have a professional inspection done. Our team at Gemsco provides detailed roof assessments, which can help you prove that the damage is new and eligible for coverage.
3. Delayed Claim Filing
Most insurance policies require you to file a claim within a certain period after damage occurs. If you wait too long, they may reject it.
📅 How to Fight It: Act fast! After a storm or significant damage, contact Gemsco Roofing & Solar immediately. If you have solar panels, we can also handle their removal & reinstallation during repairs to ensure your claim moves forward without delays.
4. Insufficient Evidence of Damage
Insurance companies require solid proof to approve claims. If you don’t provide detailed photos, videos, or professional evaluations, they may deny your claim.
📸 How to Fight It: Before filing a claim, document everything! Take clear photos and get an expert evaluation from a licensed roofer. If you have a commercial roofing property, having a professional assessment is even more crucial to securing a successful claim.
5. Damage Not Covered by Policy
Some insurance policies exclude certain types of damage, such as wear and tear, mold, or poor installation. If the damage isn’t covered, your claim will be denied.
📖 How to Fight It: Review your policy carefully. If your claim is denied due to coverage limitations, our Green Roof Energy Program might be a great alternative—allowing you to get a roof repair or full replacement at no cost by utilizing solar incentives.
6. Adjuster’s Assessment Conflicts with Your Claim
Insurance adjusters sometimes minimize damage or claim repairs (rather than a roof replacement) are sufficient. This can result in a reduced payout or denial.
⚖ How to Fight It: Request a second opinion from an independent roofing expert. At Gemsco, we offer comprehensive damage reports to challenge unfair assessments.
How to Appeal a Denied Roof Insurance Claim
If your claim was denied, don’t give up. Here’s how you can fight back:
1. Review the Denial Letter
Your insurance company will provide a letter explaining why your claim was denied. Read it carefully to understand their reasoning.
2. Gather Additional Evidence
Take new photos, videos, and get a professional inspection. If you had solar panels installed, document their condition to prevent insurers from using them as an excuse.
3. Request a Reassessment
You have the right to ask for another adjuster to reassess your roof. Providing extra documentation can help strengthen your appeal.
4. Work With a Public Adjuster
Public adjusters are independent professionals who can advocate for a higher insurance payout on your behalf.
5. Consult a Roofing Professional
At Gemsco Roofing & Solar, we provide accurate evaluations that can be used to appeal a denied claim. We also offer financing options for repairs or replacements if needed.
6. Consider the Green Energy Program
If insurance still refuses to cover your roof, don’t worry. Our Green Energy Program might be the solution you need.
How the Green Energy Program Can Help You Get a New Roof for Free
Denied insurance claim? Struggling with an aging roof? Instead of paying thousands out-of-pocket, homeowners can get a new roof or roof repair at no cost through our Green Roof Energy Program.
How It Works:
✅ We assess your roof to see if you qualify
✅ You switch to solar energy, which can lower your bills
✅ The 30% ITC (Investment Tax Credit) helps cover roofing costs
✅ Our team handles the entire process, from installation to insurance paperwork
This program allows homeowners to replace their roof or make necessary repairs without upfront costs, making it an excellent alternative when insurance falls short.
Gemsco Roofing & Solar: Your Trusted Roofing Partner
At Gemsco Roofing & Solar, we don’t just help homeowners with roof repairs, replacements, and solar installations—we also advocate for them in the insurance process. Whether you need help fighting a denied claim or want to take advantage of our Green Energy Program, we’re here to help.
✔ Roof Replacement & Repair – Expert solutions for both residential and commercial roofing needs.
✔ Roof Leak Fixes – Quick, reliable repairs to prevent further damage.
✔ Solar Panel Services – Professional removal & reinstallation for roofs with solar panels.
✔ Green Roof Energy Program – Get a new roof or repairs at no cost by switching to solar!
📞 Contact us today for a free roof inspection and find out how you can get a new roof—even if your insurance claim was denied!