What to Do If Your Roof Insurance Claim Is Denied in North Carolina

What to Do If Your Roof Insurance Claim Is Denied in North Carolina

If your roof has been damaged by a storm and your insurance claim has been denied, you are not alone. Every year, homeowners across North Carolina — especially in Wake, Durham, and surrounding counties — are shocked to receive a denial letter from their insurance company. The good news is a denial is not always the final answer.

At United Contracting, we specialize in helping homeowners navigate the storm restoration and insurance claim process. In many cases, we have successfully helped clients reverse denials, recover funds, and complete repairs with minimal out-of-pocket costs. This article outlines why claims get denied and what steps you should take next.

Common Reasons Roof Claims Get Denied

Insurance carriers deny roof claims for several reasons. Some are legitimate, while others result from poor documentation, incomplete inspections, or technicalities that can often be challenged.

1. Pre-Existing or Gradual Damage

If the adjuster determines that your roof damage occurred over time — rather than from a specific storm — your claim may be denied. This includes:

• Aging shingles
  
  
• Long-term leaks
  
  
• Improper installation
  
  

2. Lack of Maintenance

Insurance policies require homeowners to maintain their property. If your roof was already in poor condition before the storm, your claim may be rejected for negligence.

3. Insufficient Evidence

If your contractor did not provide enough photo documentation, or if the adjuster missed critical damage, the insurer may deny your claim simply due to lack of proof.

4. Cosmetic Damage Only

Some insurers deny claims that involve granule loss or minor scuffs if the roof is still technically functional, even if that damage shortens the roof’s lifespan.

5. Policy Limitations or Exclusions

Some policies have specific clauses excluding certain roof materials, age-related damage, or cosmetic-only issues. Others include Actual Cash Value (ACV) coverage instead of full Replacement Cost (RCV), reducing your payout.

What You Should Do After a Denied Roof Claim

A denial does not mean you are out of options. Here is a step-by-step guide to appeal or revisit the claim with the right support.

Step 1: Review the Denial Letter Carefully

The denial letter should state why your claim was rejected. Look for specific terms such as:

• “Pre-existing condition”
  
  
• “Not covered peril”
  
  
• “Wear and tear”
  
  
• “Insufficient storm evidence”
  
  

Understanding the insurer’s reasoning is key to building a successful rebuttal.

Step 2: Get a Second Opinion from a Qualified Contractor

At United Contracting, we offer free second inspections for denied claims. Our team specializes in identifying storm damage that adjusters may overlook or miscategorize. We document:

• Date-stamped storm events
  
  
• Hail or wind damage to shingles and flashing
  
  
• Soft decking or moisture intrusion
  
  
• Manufacturer shingle data to prove discontinuation
  
  

Step 3: Request a Re-Inspection

You are allowed to request a second inspection with a different adjuster. We recommend having your contractor on-site during the inspection to point out issues and ensure accurate reporting.

United Contracting works directly with insurance adjusters to advocate for fair evaluation of storm damage.

Step 4: File a Supplement or Appeal

If new damage is found or if the denial was based on inaccurate information, your contractor can submit a supplemental claim with updated documentation.

In some cases, you may need to file a formal appeal or involve a public adjuster or insurance attorney — though most issues can be resolved without legal intervention.

Step 5: Do Not Repair Without Consulting a Contractor

If you accept the denial and repair your roof at your own expense, you may forfeit your ability to reopen the claim. Always consult with a licensed contractor before moving forward.

How United Contracting Helps with Denied Roof Claims

We are more than just a roofing company — we are insurance restoration specialists. Our goal is to help homeowners throughout Wake County and surrounding areas get the insurance coverage they deserve.

Here is how we support denied claims:

• Free re-inspection and damage report
  
  
• Date-matched storm verification reports
  
  
• Insurance adjuster coordination
  
  
• Supplemental documentation and photo packages
  
  
• Expert guidance through every step of the appeal
  
  

Many of our clients come to us after an initial denial — and we often get approvals or partial payouts reversed through detailed inspections and clear evidence.

Real Example: Roof Claim Reversal in Durham County

In 2023, a homeowner in Durham received a denial for a hail damage claim, citing "wear and tear." United Contracting performed a second inspection, documented hail impacts on multiple slopes, and submitted a supplemental package to the insurer. The claim was reopened and approved for full roof replacement, saving the homeowner over twelve thousand dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Denied Roof Claims

Can I reopen a denied roof claim?

Yes. Most insurance providers allow you to request a re-inspection or file a supplemental claim within one year of the initial event. Acting quickly improves your chances.

Should I hire a public adjuster?

A public adjuster can be helpful for complex cases, but often, a knowledgeable contractor like United Contracting can resolve the issue without the added expense of a third party.

Will appealing a denied claim affect my premium?

No. Filing a supplemental claim or appeal is not considered a new claim and typically does not affect your rates.

What if my claim is partially approved but does not cover everything?

You can request a supplement to cover missed items such as code upgrades, underlayment, or flashing. We help homeowners secure full coverage for a complete and compliant repair.

Get Help Today with a Denied Roof Insurance Claim in NC

If your roof insurance claim was denied, do not give up. Let United Contracting take a second look and guide you through your next steps. We are based in the Triangle and serve homeowners across Wake, Durham, Franklin, and neighboring counties.

Call Now for a Free Second Opinion:
Phone: (984) 363-7670
Email: kyle.h@unitedcontracting.llc
Website: https://unitedcontracting.llc
Business Hours: Monday to Friday 9 AM – 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM