After a claim · Roof
Insurance only paid half my roof.
The contractor quoted $24,000. The check is $12,400. This is one of the most common pieces of mail we help homeowners decipher — and in most cases, the other half is recoverable. Here's how to tell which scenario you're in.
Recoverable depreciation withheld (most common)
On RCV policies, the carrier pays the depreciated value first, then releases the rest ('recoverable depreciation') after you complete the work and submit receipts. The 'half' check is just the ACV portion — the rest is sitting there waiting for you to claim it. If your settlement letter mentions depreciation, you can usually get it back.
ACV roof endorsement
Your policy was switched to actual cash value on the roof at some point. On a 15-year-old asphalt roof, ACV pays ~30–40% of replacement. There is no second check — that's the full payout. Common in CO, TX, and other hail-prone states.
Only damaged slopes approved (no matching)
The adjuster found hail damage on 2 of 4 slopes. Without matching coverage, the other two stay as-is — even though discontinued shingle colors leave you with a two-tone roof. A roofing contractor's estimate covers all 4 slopes; the carrier's pays for 2.
Send us your dec page and the carrier's letter.
We'll tell you in plain English which of the three scenarios you're in — and whether you have a second check coming.
Frequently asked
How do I get the second half of my roof insurance check?
Get the work done with a licensed contractor, submit the final invoice and proof of completion to the carrier, and request release of recoverable depreciation. Most policies require this within 180 days to 2 years of the loss.
What if I can't afford to pay the contractor upfront?
Many roofers in hail states will work on an 'insurance proceeds' basis — they start work with the first (ACV) check and bill the recoverable depreciation directly through your final invoice.
What if my claim is on an ACV policy with no recoverable depreciation?
There's no second check. Your options are (1) accept the gap and pay out of pocket, (2) appeal the scope of damage (often successful when more slopes have hail), or (3) negotiate with the contractor on materials and labor.
Keep reading
Why Is My Insurance Payout So Low?
The six declarations-page line items that decide every underpayment.
Read moreAfter a claimInsurance Claim Denied?
Why claims get denied and how to dispute it.
Read moreAfter a claimUnderpaid Insurance Claim?
What to do when the payout is way less than the damage.
Read more CalculatorACV vs RCV Roof Calculator
See exactly how much your roof payout shrinks under ACV.
Try the calculator