Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Damage?

Homeowners insurance can be a lifesaver when it comes to roof damage, but understanding the specifics of what is and isn’t covered is important for every homeowner. Here’s a look at how insurance policies typically handle roof damage:

Understanding Policy Coverage

Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover roof damage that is sudden and accidental. This includes scenarios like damage from a storm, fire, or vandalism. However, coverage can vary significantly between policies, so it’s important to review the specifics of your insurance plan.

Commonly Covered Perils

• Storm Damage – Damage from wind, hail, and fallen trees often falls under standard coverage.
• Fire and Smoke – Virtually all policies will cover damage caused by fire, including any subsequent water damage during firefighting efforts.
• Vandalism and Malicious Mischief – If someone damages your roof intentionally, this is usually covered.

Exclusions to Be Aware Of

Insurance does not generally cover issues that stem from wear and tear or a lack of maintenance. For example, if an old roof starts leaking due to normal aging, this typically won’t be covered. Here are some common exclusions:

• Age of Roof – Some policies may have stipulations about the age of the roof and may only offer limited coverage or depreciated value for older roofs.
• Material Type – Certain materials like slate or recycled shake shingles might be excluded or have limited coverage due to their longer lifespan or higher cost.

Steps to Take After Roof Damage

1. Document the Damage – Take clear photos of the damage from multiple angles. This documentation is important for your insurance claim.
2. Review Your Insurance Policy – Understand the specifics of what your policy covers and any deductibles that might apply.
3. Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage – Cover any exposed areas with a tarp or make other temporary fixes. Be sure to keep receipts as some policies will cover these costs.
4. File Your Claim – Contact your insurance company to report the damage and start the claims process as soon as possible. An adjuster will typically visit your home to assess the damage and determine coverage.
5. Get Professional Help – Get a licensed roofing contractor to provide a detailed inspection of the repair costs. They will be very useful to negotiate with your insurance provider, many times getting you up to 30-40% more.

Tips For Ensuring a Smooth Claims Process

• Act Quickly – Delaying could worsen the damage and complicate your claim.
• Keep Detailed Records – Document all communications with your insurance company and save all paperwork and receipts related to roof repairs.
• Understand Depreciation – Some policies account for depreciation, paying only a portion of the replacement cost based on the age and condition of the roof at the time of damage.

Conclusion

While homeowners’ insurance typically covers roof damage from specific events, it’s important to understand the nuances of your policy. Regular maintenance and prompt action when damage occurs can help ensure that you get the most from your insurance coverage if you ever need to file a claim.

Call Us When You Need a Roof Repair or Replacement

Since our founding in 2012, Renown Roofing has set itself apart as a premier roofing contractor in Dallas. Specializing in both commercial and residential roofing, we combine traditional expertise with modern technology including a certified thermographer to aid in energy savings. We help our clients maximize insurance claims using only the best materials and provide industry-leading warranties. Our comprehensive services range from simple repairs to complete roof replacements and storm damage recovery, consistently earning praise from over 1200 satisfied customers for our meticulous attention to detail and customer-first approach.

For more information about the products and services we provide, or to schedule a free inspection, contact us via our website or give us a call at 972-640-0043. We look forward to serving you!