The Complete Guide to Roof Insurance Claims in Utah (2025 Edition)
Introduction
If your roof has been damaged—whether by a storm, wind, hail, or time—you’re likely wondering: Will insurance cover it? What are you entitled to? And what’s the smartest way to handle your claim?
For many Utah homeowners, navigating a roof insurance claim feels like entering a maze. But it doesn’t have to. This guide walks you through the entire process, including when your roof may qualify for a full replacement, especially if you have discontinued shingles.
Table of Contents
When Does Insurance Cover Roof Damage?
What Adjusters Look for During Inspection
The Step-by-Step Claims Process
Claim-Killing Mistakes to Avoid
When Insurance Owes You a Full Replacement
Why Discontinued Shingles Could Work in Your Favor
1. When Does Insurance Cover Roof Damage?
Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies do cover roof damage, but only when the cause is “sudden and accidental.”
✅ Covered by Most Utah Policies:
Hail or wind damage
Falling branches or debris
Fire or vandalism
❌ Usually Not Covered:
General wear and tear
Poor installation or lack of maintenance
Aging or brittle shingles
Pro Tip: Insurance companies often require you to file a claim within 6–12 months of the incident.
2. What Adjusters Look for During Inspection
The adjuster’s report largely determines what your insurer pays. Here’s what they check:
Shingle condition – Are they cracked, bruised, or missing?
Roof age – Older roofs = lower payout unless full replacement is justified
Signs of water intrusion – In the attic or ceiling
Shingle type & availability – If your shingles are discontinued, that matters a lot
3. The Step-by-Step Claims Process
Step 1: Inspect and Document Damage
Take photos of everything: shingles, gutters, roof edges, attic, and any interior leaks.
Step 2: Request a Professional Inspection
Before the adjuster arrives, have a roofing expert evaluate the damage. This gives you leverage and catches what insurers might miss.
Step 3: File Your Claim
Most insurers allow phone or online submissions. Include photos, dates, and known storm info.
Step 4: Meet with the Adjuster
Have your roofer present if possible. They can advocate for you and prevent “missed damage.”
Step 5: Review the Estimate
If it looks low, request a reinspection or challenge it with your contractor’s report.
Step 6: Start Work, Get Paid
Insurance pays in two parts:
ACV (Actual Cash Value): paid first
RCV (Recoverable Depreciation): released after repairs are completed and proof is submitted
4. Claim-Killing Mistakes to Avoid
Filing too late
Not documenting damage immediately
Letting the adjuster inspect alone
Accepting the first offer without review
Not checking for shingle discontinuation rights
5. When Insurance Owes You a Full Replacement
Even minor damage can lead to a full roof replacement if:
Your shingles are out of production
The damage spans multiple slopes
Repairs would violate building code or manufacturer guidelines
You’re protected by Utah’s “matching law” (insurers must match roofing materials visually & functionally)
6. Why Discontinued Shingles Could Work in Your Favor
If your shingle brand or model is no longer manufactured, your insurer may not legally be allowed to patch or mix materials. That’s often grounds for a full roof replacement.
This is one of the most overlooked leverage points in the entire claim process.
Final Takeaway
Navigating a roof insurance claim doesn’t have to be confusing, costly, or one-sided.
Vanta Roofworks helps Utah homeowners:
Understand their policy
Identify qualifying damage
Maximize insurance coverage
Get the roof they deserve
