What Should I Do If My Roof Is Leaking in Texas? A Homeowner’s Guide

Introduction

A roof leak is one of the most stressful issues a Texas homeowner can face. Whether it’s caused by hail, high winds, or simply age and wear, a roof leak can quickly spiral into major water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. Texas ranks among the top states for severe weather-related claims, with over 688 major hail events reported in 2022 alone, many leading to roof damage (NOAA).

If you're wondering what to do if your roof is leaking in Texas, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the most important steps—from emergency actions and documentation to filing a successful insurance claim.

Recognizing the Signs of a Roof Leak

Before you can act, it’s important to identify a leak correctly. A roof leak may not always result in dripping water; it could manifest in subtler ways.

Common indicators of a roof leak include:

• Water stains or discoloration on ceilings or walls

• Bubbling or peeling paint

• Sagging drywall

• Moldy or musty odors

• Wet insulation in the attic

• Visible sunlight coming through roof boards

In Texas, heavy rain and hail are major culprits. According to the Insurance Information Institute, wind and hail damage account for 45.5% of all homeowners insurance claims nationally.

Step 1: Take Immediate Safety Precautions

Safety should always come first when dealing with a leaking roof.

• Turn off electricity: Water and electricity don’t mix. Shut off power in the affected area.

• Contain the leak: Use buckets, pans, or towels to catch dripping water.

• Move valuables: Shift furniture, electronics, and personal items away from the leak.

• Relieve water pressure: If water is bulging from the ceiling, puncture the lowest point carefully to release it and prevent ceiling collapse.

Step 2: Limit Further Damage

Homeowners insurance in Texas typically requires policyholders to mitigate additional damage.

• Use a tarp: If safe to do so, cover the damaged section of your roof with a waterproof tarp.

• Seal small gaps: Roofing cement or silicone caulk can provide a temporary seal.

• Keep receipts: Document all temporary repairs—your insurance may reimburse these expenses.

Step 3: Document the Damage

Thorough documentation is critical for filing a successful insurance claim.

• Take photos and videos of all visible damage inside and outside the home.

• Create a damage log including the date of the leak, weather conditions, and any repairs made.

• Keep an itemized inventory of any damaged belongings and their approximate value.

In Texas, some claims can be denied if insurers claim the damage is due to wear and tear rather than a sudden storm. Having dated photographic evidence helps demonstrate that the damage is new and weather-related.

Step 4: Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

Understanding your policy will help you set realistic expectations.

• Named Perils vs. All-Risk: Most Texas homeowners carry “named perils” policies which only cover damage from specific events like hail or wind.

• Roof coverage limitations: Older roofs or poorly maintained ones may have limited coverage.

• Hurricane and hail deductibles: These are typically higher than standard deductibles and are often calculated as a percentage of the home’s insured value.

According to Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), hail and windstorm deductibles are commonly 1% to 5% of your home's insured value.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

Prompt reporting can prevent delays or denial.

• File a claim as soon as possible—ideally within 24–48 hours of discovering the leak.

• Provide all documentation, including photos, receipts, and your written damage report.

• Request an adjuster visit, and if possible, be present during their inspection.

Step 6: Hire a Trusted Roofing Contractor

Finding the right roofer is critical—especially in Texas, where fly-by-night companies often follow storms.

What to look for in a roofing contractor:

• Licensed and insured in Texas

• Experience with storm-damaged roofs

• Strong local references

• Willingness to work with your insurance adjuster

• Provides a written estimate before work begins

Avoid giving cash deposits or signing contracts that allow the contractor to negotiate directly with your insurer.

Step 7: Understand the Insurance Claim Process

After the adjuster’s visit, your insurance company will either approve, partially approve, or deny your claim.

• Approved: You’ll receive payment (often in two checks) to complete repairs.

• Partially Approved: The insurer may agree to pay for part of the work, citing wear and tear for exclusions.

• Denied: You have the right to dispute the denial or appeal the decision.

Texas law protects homeowners from unfair claim denials under the Texas Insurance Code Chapter 542, which requires insurers to act promptly and in good faith.

For more detailed guidance, explore this step-by-step guide by Louis Law Group.

How Louis Law Group Can Help

If your claim is delayed, underpaid, or denied outright, legal assistance can make a difference. Louis Law Group helps Texas homeowners navigate complex roof damage claims by negotiating with insurers, gathering expert assessments, and pursuing legal remedies if needed.

Their experience handling storm-related claims ensures that you receive the compensation you're rightfully owed—without being taken advantage of during a stressful time.

Discover more about our services on the Louis Law Group property damage claims.

FAQs: Roof Leak in Texas

Q: Can I make temporary repairs before the adjuster visits?

A: Yes, and it’s encouraged to prevent more damage. Just make sure to document everything thoroughly.

Q: How long does the insurance claim process take in Texas?

A: Insurers must acknowledge your claim within 15 days and accept or reject it within 15 business days after receiving proof of loss.

Q: Is mold from a roof leak covered by insurance?

A: Sometimes. If mold is the result of a covered peril (like wind or hail), it may be covered. Check your policy for mold exclusions or caps.

Q: Do insurance companies cover full roof replacement?

A: It depends. If the damage affects the integrity of the entire roof, replacement may be covered. Partial damage may only result in partial payment.

Q: What if I disagree with the insurance adjuster’s assessment?

A: You can hire a public adjuster or an attorney to dispute the findings and negotiate on your behalf.

Conclusion

Discovering a leaking roof can be alarming, especially with Texas’ unpredictable weather patterns and insurance complexity. Taking swift action—protecting your home, gathering evidence, contacting your insurer, and selecting the right professionals—can make a huge difference in your recovery process. Understanding your rights and options ensures you’re not left footing the bill for storm-related damage.

Are you prepared to take the right steps to protect your home and finances the next time your roof starts leaking?

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.