Do I really have to pay my deductible on a roof claim?
Yes. Under a Texas law that took effect in September 2019, a contractor cannot pay, waive, absorb or rebate your insurance deductible, or advertise that it will. The deductible is the homeowner's responsibility under the policy.
What the law says
House Bill 2102 took effect on September 1, 2019. It prohibits contractors from paying, waiving, absorbing or rebating a policyholder's deductible, and from advertising that they will.
Why the law exists
Before the law changed, offers to cover a homeowner's deductible were common after hail storms. When a contractor gives up that money, it often has to be made up somewhere else, such as lower-quality materials or an inflated invoice. The law helps protect homeowners and keeps insurance claims honest.
Planning for your deductible
Your deductible is set by your policy, so it is worth knowing the amount before a storm. Your insurance agent can explain how the deductible works on your policy, including any separate deductible for wind and hail. If a contractor offers to cover your deductible, that is a reason to keep looking.
Related questions
What if a contractor offers to waive my deductible?
That is not allowed under Texas law. Choose a contractor who does not make that offer.
Is a wind and hail deductible different?
Some Texas policies have a separate deductible for wind and hail, often set as a percentage of the home's insured value. Check your policy or ask your insurance agent.
