Texas Roof Insurance Payout Estimator (RCV vs. ACV)
On a replacement cost (RCV) policy you ultimately recover the full roof replacement cost minus your deductible — usually in two payments: an actual-cash-value check up front, then the held-back recoverable depreciation after the work is done. On an actual cash value (ACV) policy, depreciation is subtracted and not refunded. Estimate your numbers below. It's a planning tool, not your policy or an adjuster's estimate.
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Enter your numbers for a plain-English breakdown of how the payout is built. Nothing is sent anywhere — it's calculated in your browser.
Why is my insurance check less than my roofer's estimate?
Because the first check isn't meant to be the whole job. Your insurer subtracts depreciation for the roof's age and wear, then subtracts your wind/hail deductible — so the initial (actual cash value) payment is well below the replacement cost your roofer quoted.
On a replacement cost (RCV) policy, that withheld depreciation is recoverable: once the roof is actually replaced and the final invoice is submitted, the insurer releases it, and you end up recovering the full replacement cost minus your deductible. On an actual cash value (ACV) policy, the depreciation stays with the insurer and you cover it yourself.
RCV vs. ACV, in plain terms
Replacement cost coverage pays current repair prices, typically in two payments — a partial payment up front and the rest after repairs start — while actual cash value coverage pays less for an older or more worn roof, per the Texas Department of Insurance. A wind/hail deductible may also differ from your standard deductible.
One thing neither covers: age alone. The Texas Department of Insurance is explicit that an insurer won't pay for a new roof just because it's old or worn out — there has to be covered damage. For how that damage is assessed, see the storm and hail damage guide.
This is an estimate, not your policy
The depreciation method here is a simple straight-line illustration; your insurer sets its own depreciation schedule, and your deductible and coverage type are whatever your policy says. Treat the breakdown as a way to understand the moving parts — then read your policy and your adjuster's estimate for the real figures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my roof insurance check less than my roofer's estimate?
- Two things shrink the first check. Your insurer subtracts depreciation for the roof's age and wear, and then subtracts your wind/hail deductible. On a replacement cost (RCV) policy that depreciation is 'recoverable' — you get it back after the work is done and invoiced — so you ultimately recover the full replacement cost minus your deductible. On an actual cash value (ACV) policy, the depreciation is not refunded.
- What is the difference between RCV and ACV on a roof claim in Texas?
- Replacement cost value (RCV) coverage pays current repair prices, typically in two payments — a partial ACV payment up front and the held-back depreciation after repairs start. Actual cash value (ACV) coverage pays less for an older or more worn roof, because depreciation is subtracted and not returned, per the Texas Department of Insurance.
- Do I get the depreciation back on a roof claim?
- On a replacement cost (RCV) policy, yes — the withheld amount is 'recoverable depreciation,' released once the roof is actually replaced and the final invoice is submitted. On an actual cash value (ACV) policy, no — depreciation is kept by the insurer, so you cover it out of pocket if you replace the roof.
- Will insurance pay to replace an old or worn-out roof in Texas?
- No. The Texas Department of Insurance is explicit that an insurer won't pay for a new roof just because it's old or worn out — coverage responds to covered damage, such as a wind or hail event, not to roof age alone.