Do I have to pay my deductible on a roof claim in Texas?
Yes. Since September 2019, Texas Insurance Code section 707.003 has required contractors to collect the insurance deductible, and a homeowner who agrees to have it waived can be charged along with the contractor. NTX Roofing Solutions offers financing for the deductible, and a free upgrade to a higher impact-resistant shingle when the deductible is paid up front or financed.
What the law says
House Bill 2102, in effect since September 1, 2019, added section 707.003 to the Texas Insurance Code. It makes it an offense for a contractor to pay, waive, absorb or rebate an insurance deductible, or to advertise that it will. It also allows the insurance company to hold the final payment until the homeowner shows reasonable proof that the deductible was paid. The offense is a class B misdemeanor, and it applies to a homeowner who knowingly accepts the waiver as well as to the contractor who offers it.
Why the law exists
Before 2019, some contractors offered to cover the deductible after a hailstorm and made up the difference by raising the invoice sent to the insurance company. The law was written to stop that practice.
Deductible financing
Qualified clients can finance the deductible through our third-party financing, and others may qualify for our in-house second-chance financing, so the deductible can be paid over time.
When the deductible is paid in full up front or financed through our preferred third-party financing company, we offer a free upgrade to a higher impact-resistant shingle.
Keep a record of the payment
Make sure the deductible is listed on your contract, pay it in a way that leaves a record, and keep the receipt. Your insurance company may ask for proof of payment before it releases the final check.
Related questions
What if I cannot afford the deductible?
Ask us about financing. Qualified clients can use our third-party financing, and others may qualify for our in-house second-chance financing.
Can a contractor give me a discount instead?
A discount that amounts to covering the deductible is not allowed under Texas law. The free shingle upgrade adds value to your roof without reducing what you pay toward the deductible.
Does the insurance company check?
The law allows the insurance company to hold the final payment until you show proof the deductible was paid, and some carriers ask for it.
