Short answer: Since Arkansas Insurance Department Bulletin 17-2023, insurers may require a separate wind and hail deductible and, with approved notice, a roof schedule endorsement for roofs 7 years or older, which typically pays less for an older roof. After a storm, remember the Department's warning that replacement cost policies require work to be completed within six months of the loss to collect withheld payments. Insurers must send a non-renewal notice or renewal offer at least 30 days before the term ends.
This guide is general information for Arkansas homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Read your roof and hail terms
Arkansas Insurance Department Bulletin 17-2023 now allows insurers to apply a mandatory separate wind/hail deductible and a mandatory roof schedule endorsement for roofs 7 years or older, with notice approved by the Department. Check your declarations for both and ask what a roof claim would pay at your roof's age.
Step 2: Follow the post-storm checklist
The Insurance Commissioner's post-storm tips say to have your roof inspected by a trusted contractor, file if damage is much larger than your deductible, photograph everything, make temporary repairs and don't make permanent repairs until the insurer inspects. Replacement cost policies require work to be completed within six months of the date of loss to receive withheld replacement cost payments.
Step 3: Flood
Homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood; see FloodSmart. If coverage is hard to find, see FAIR Plan vs. surplus lines home insurance.
Step 4: Non-renewal
Under Ark. Code §23-88-105, which the legislature added in HB 2833 of 2003, except for non-payment, insurers must send either a non-renewal notice or a renewal offer at least 30 days before the term ends. Details: Arkansas homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claim deadlines
Under Arkansas Rule 43, insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 working days, accept or deny within 15 working days after properly executed proofs of loss and pay within 10 working days after the claim is ready for payment. More: Arkansas insurance claim deadlines.
See our tables: non-renewal notice rules by state, insurance claim deadlines by state and home insurance claim and lawsuit deadlines by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Arkansas.
Frequently asked questions
Can Arkansas insurers require a separate hail deductible?
Yes. Bulletin 17-2023 allows a mandatory separate wind/hail deductible.
What is a roof schedule endorsement in Arkansas?
An endorsement, allowed for roofs 7 years or older with approved notice, that ties roof claim payments to the roof's age.
How long do I have to repair to collect replacement cost in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Insurance Department says replacement cost policies require work to be completed within six months of the date of loss.
How much notice before an Arkansas homeowners non-renewal?
A non-renewal notice or renewal offer at least 30 days before the term ends, under Ark. Code §23-88-105.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.