If your roof claim is denied, ask for the reason in writing, read that reason against your policy, and gather evidence: dated storm photos, a roofer’s inspection report and the NOAA storm record for your area. Then ask your insurer for a re-inspection or appeal. If you signed a repair contract, Arkansas law lets you cancel it within three business days after a written denial.
Common reasons roof claims are denied
- The damage is judged to be wear and tear, not storm damage
- The claim was filed after the policy deadline
- The damage costs less than the deductible
- Earlier damage was never repaired
- Hail hits are judged cosmetic, especially on metal roofs
What to do, step by step
- Get the denial in writing, with the specific reason and policy language.
- Read your policy, especially the exclusions and any cosmetic damage wording.
- Gather evidence: dated photos, hail next to a ruler, dents on gutters and cars, and the NOAA storm report for your date and place.
- Get an independent inspection with test-square hit counts and photos.
- Ask for a re-inspection or appeal, in writing, with your evidence attached.
- If you still disagree, check your policy’s appraisal clause, or contact the Arkansas Insurance Department’s consumer services.
Your right to cancel a repair contract
Under Arkansas Code 4-88-904, if you signed a contract with a roofer for work to be paid by insurance, you can cancel within three business days after you receive the insurer’s written denial. The contractor must refund your payments within ten days, except for emergency services like tarping.
Using storm records
The NOAA Storm Events Database lists hail and wind reports by date and place. For Pine Bluff, that includes 3 April 2025, when golf ball to tennis ball size hail fell in Pine Bluff and Watson Chapel. Our Pine Bluff Roof Damage Report lists the major events. A storm record that matches your damage date supports your claim.
We inspect and document roofs for homeowners in this situation. See roof insurance claim help.
How do I prove hail damage to my insurance company?
Use dated photos of hail next to a ruler, dents on gutters, vents and cars, test-square hit counts from an inspection, and the NOAA storm report for your date and area. Evidence from the week of the storm is the strongest.
Can I reopen a denied roof claim?
Many insurers will review a claim again when you bring new evidence, like a detailed inspection report or photos they did not have. Ask in writing and keep copies. See roof insurance claim help.
What if the adjuster says the damage is cosmetic?
Some policies exclude cosmetic damage, like dents on metal that do not cause leaks. Ask whether your policy has that exclusion and whether any functional damage, such as cracked shingles or broken seals, was missed. See hail damage claim steps in Arkansas.
Can I get a second adjuster?
You can ask for a re-inspection. Many insurers will send someone again when you provide new evidence.
What is the appraisal clause?
Many policies let each side hire an appraiser when you disagree on the amount of loss. Read your policy for how it works.
How long does an insurer have to respond to my appeal?
It varies by insurer and policy. Send your request in writing, keep a copy, and follow up if you do not hear back within a few weeks.
Should I hire a lawyer?
For large disputes, some homeowners do. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Can I repair the roof while I appeal?
Stop further damage with a tarp and take photos, but ask your insurer before permanent repairs so evidence is not lost.