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ACV vs RCV payout calculator
Enter the replacement cost, the roof's age and your deductible, and see the two-check arithmetic an adjuster does — including whether filing pays you anything at all.
Common questions
Where do I find out whether I have ACV or RCV?
The declarations page, under Coverage A, and then the endorsements list. Look for wording like 'roof surfacing — actual cash value loss settlement' or a payment schedule table. If you cannot find it, ask your agent to confirm in writing.
What is recoverable depreciation?
The part the insurer holds back at first and releases once the work is actually done and invoiced. It is your money, but only if you do the work and send the paperwork.
The first check was tiny. Is that normal?
On an older roof with a percentage wind and hail deductible, yes. Depreciation plus deductible can consume most of the actual cash value. That is what the arithmetic above is for — knowing before you file.
Can I keep the first check and not do the work?
You can generally keep the actual cash value payment, but you forfeit the recoverable depreciation, and your mortgage lender may be a co-payee with its own rules. It also leaves you with a damaged roof and a claim on your record.
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