Do I have to pay my deductible on a roof insurance claim in Texas?
Yes. Under Texas Insurance Code chapter 707, it is against the law for a contractor to pay, waive, rebate or absorb any part of your insurance deductible. Homeowners pay their deductible, and insurance covers the remainder of the approved claim.
What your deductible is
Your deductible is the part of a covered loss that you agreed to pay when you bought your homeowners policy. Your insurance company pays the approved claim amount minus the deductible.
Many Texas homeowners policies use a percentage deductible for wind and hail, often 1 or 2 percent of your dwelling coverage. On a home insured for $300,000, a 2 percent deductible is $6,000. You can find your deductible on the declarations page of your policy.
Why a contractor cannot waive it
If a contractor absorbs the deductible, the bill sent to the insurance company has to be raised to cover it, which is insurance fraud. Texas law makes it an offense for the contractor, and for the homeowner who agrees to it.
A roofing contract paid with insurance proceeds should also state that you are responsible for paying your deductible.
Questions about the cost of your claim
If you have questions about your deductible or what your claim covers, your insurance agent can explain your policy. For questions about the roof itself, call (214) 632-7177 to schedule a free inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a roofer give me a discount equal to my deductible?
No. A discount that only exists to cover the deductible is treated the same as waiving it. A real discount applies to the job price whether or not there is an insurance claim.
Does the deductible come out of the insurance payment?
Yes. The insurance company pays the approved amount minus your deductible, and you pay the deductible.
Where do I find my deductible?
Your deductible is listed on the declarations page of your homeowners policy. Your insurance agent can also tell you what it is.
