Ohio homeowner insurance storm/roof claim playbook

Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays the replacement cost minus depreciation (age/wear). Replacement Cost Value (RCV) pays the full cost to replace the roof at today's prices, regardless of age, once repairs are completed.

Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3951 regulates public insurance adjusters. It requires them to be licensed, bonded, and prohibits them from acting as your contractor on the same claim to prevent conflicts of interest.

This is called 'Recoverable Depreciation.' On RCV policies, the insurer pays the ACV first and holds the remaining balance until you provide proof (a final invoice) that the work is finished.

This requires a 'Supplement Claim.' Your contractor submits documentation of the additional damage or required local building codes to the insurance company for approval and additional funding.

Ohio Administrative Code 3901-1-54(I) states that if a loss requires replacement of items and the new items do not match in color, texture, or size, the insurer must replace as much of the adjacent area as necessary to maintain a uniform appearance.

While many policies allow 1 year from the date of loss, Ohio law generally provides a window, but you should check your specific policy 'Conditions' section as some may limit it to 180 days for RCV notification.

In Ohio, insurers generally cannot cancel a policy for a single 'Act of God' claim like wind or hail, though they may choose not to renew the policy at the end of the term or increase premiums for the entire zip code.

No. In Ohio, it is considered insurance fraud for a contractor to offer to 'waive,' 'absorb,' or 'rebate' your deductible to entice you to sign a contract.

An AOB is a legal document that signs your insurance claim rights and check-signing authority over to a third party. Use extreme caution, as this can lead to loss of control over your claim.

First, request a written explanation citing the specific policy language. You can then request a second inspection, hire a Public Adjuster, or file a complaint with the Ohio Department of Insurance.

The Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI) oversees all insurance activities, licenses agents and adjusters, and investigates consumer complaints.

Yes, though they typically charge a percentage of the total claim (usually 10%). For very small claims, the fee may not be worth the service, but for full roof replacements, they can ensure no items are missed.