
Pre-Loss
Replacement Cost Value vs Actual Cash Value
The difference that decides whether you get a new roof or the depreciated value of a 15-year-old roof.
The difference that decides whether you get a new roof or the depreciated value of a 15-year-old roof.
Pre-loss
Why this matters before you have a claim
RCV pays full replacement cost at current prices. ACV pays depreciated value. Florida policies typically write the dwelling on RCV and contents on either. Florida roof age endorsements may force ACV on older roofs.
What to do
The basics
- 01
Step 1
Check your dwelling coverage basis (RCV or ACV)
- 02
Step 2
Check your contents basis
- 03
Step 3
Review any roof age endorsements
- 04
Step 4
Understand depreciation release process (RCV pays ACV first, releases depreciation after repairs)
- 05
Step 5
Budget for the cash-flow gap during repairs

Free claim review
Get a free claim review from a licensed Florida public adjuster.
We review your policy and estimate at no cost. If we take your case, our fee only comes from the increased recovery.
- ✓Licensed Florida public adjusters
- ✓We work for policyholders, not insurance companies
- ✓No fee unless we recover more than you were offered
What kind of damage?
Pick the closest match. We will ask for details later.
Know the traps
Common mistakes
- XConfusing RCV with "extended replacement cost"
- XAssuming ACV settlement is final (you can still claim depreciation on RCV policies after repairs)
- XMissing roof age endorsements that downgrade to ACV
When to seek professional help
If this topic intersects with an open claim or if you have questions that go beyond prep, a licensed Florida public adjuster can review your policy at no cost.
No obligation. No fee unless recovery.
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Know the law
Related statutes
FS 626.854 Public Adjuster Licensing
Your right to professional representation.
FS 627.70131 Carrier Duties
What carriers must do and when.
FS 627.70132 Notice Deadlines
When you must file.
FS 627.7142 Homeowner Bill of Rights
What the carrier owes you.
FS 626.9744 Matching
Reasonable matching requirement.
Free claim review
Still building your claim? We can help right now.
A licensed Florida public adjuster will review your policy and loss documentation for free.
- ✓Licensed Florida public adjusters
- ✓We work for policyholders, not insurance companies
- ✓No fee unless we recover more than you were offered
What kind of damage?
Pick the closest match. We will ask for details later.
Go deeper
Related resources
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Prepare
Other pre-loss preparation guides
Understanding Separate Flood Insurance in Florida
Another Florida pre-loss documentation or prep topic.
Your Annual Florida Policy Review Checklist
Another Florida pre-loss documentation or prep topic.
Florida Impact-Resistant Upgrades: Discounts and Protection
Another Florida pre-loss documentation or prep topic.
Building a Defensible Home Inventory for Insurance
Another Florida pre-loss documentation or prep topic.
Florida Four-Point Inspection for Older Homes
Another Florida pre-loss documentation or prep topic.
Free claim review
Your policy says more than you think. Find out what you are actually owed.
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- ✓Licensed Florida public adjusters
- ✓We work for policyholders, not insurance companies
- ✓No fee unless we recover more than you were offered
What kind of damage?
Pick the closest match. We will ask for details later.
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