Does Home Insurance Cover Roof Replacement?
Taking care of your roof is just part of being a homeowner. But when the unexpected happens, your homeowners insurance could step in to help cover the damage. Understanding what’s usually covered (and what’s not) can give you more confidence when it comes to making repair decisions and knowing how your coverage works.
When roof damage may be covered by home insurance
Your home insurance is there to help when something sudden and accidental happens, not for everyday upkeep. So, if your roof needs repairs or replacement because it’s getting old or showing signs of wear and tear, that won’t be covered.
But if a covered event or peril, as they’re called in your policy, damages your roof, your dwelling coverage may help pay for the repairs. It all comes down to what caused the damage and what’s outlined in your policy. Commonly covered perils include:
- Windstorms: Includes damage from strong winds, hurricanes or tornadoes.
- Hail: Damage from falling hail may be covered.
- Snow, sleet or ice: Winter weather-related damage is often included in many policies.
- Lightning: Losses from lightning strikes and power surges may be covered.
- Fire: Damage from fire may be covered, depending on what caused it.
- Falling objects: Coverage for damage from trees, especially if the fall was sudden and accidental.
For example, let’s say a severe thunderstorm with strong winds rips off several shingles from your roof, causing rain to leak into your attic and damage the insulation and ceiling. Because the damage was sudden and caused by a covered peril (windstorm), your homeowners insurance would likely help pay for both the roof repair and the resulting interior damage.
What insurers consider before covering a roof replacement
Roof’s expected lifespan
How long your roof lasts depends on the material and upkeep. Here’s a quick look at typical roof lifespans based on material:
- Asphalt shingles: 15–30 years
- Metal roofs: 40–70 years
- Slate roofs: 75–100+ years
- Wood shingles/shakes: 20–40 years
- Clay or concrete tiles: 50–100 years
- Flat roof materials (PVC): 20–30 years
Signs of failure
Keep an eye on your roof’s condition. Missing shingles, sagging areas or moss buildup could be signs you may need a new roof. Your insurance company will take the roof’s condition into account when determining your coverage – so staying ahead of issues can make a big difference.
Roof maintenance
If there’s evidence of neglect or long-term wear, your coverage could be limited. Staying on top of routine upkeep helps keep your roof in good shape and helps you remain eligible for coverage when you need it most.
Insurance policy type
There are two common ways an insurance company might cover roof damage: actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV).
- ACV takes depreciation into account, meaning your payout is reduced based on the age and condition of your roof.
- RCV pays the full cost to replace your roof with materials of similar like, kind and quality, without factoring in depreciation.
Let’s break down how a claim might look with ACV and RCV : It costs $20,000 to replace your 15-year-old asphalt shingle roof that’s been damaged by hail. With RCV, your homeowners insurance may pay the full $20,000 (minus your deductible). With ACV, your insurance could determine that the appropriate amount of depreciation on the materials to replace your roof amounts to $5,000 therefore your payout would $15,000 (minus your deductible).
How to file a roof damage claim
Filing a roof damage claim works much like any other homeowners insurance claim. Here’s a quick overview of the process for a roof claim:
1. Document the damage right away
- Take clear photos, and note date and weather conditions
- Hold off on major repairs until your adjuster has inspected the damage
2. Contract your insurance company
- Report the damage and share basic details, photos and documentation
3. Schedule an inspection
- Your insurance company will likely send out an adjuster to inspect your roof
- You can get an estimate from a licensed roofing contractor
4. Review your settlement
- If coverage is afforded, review the settlement details carefully
- Save all receipts and documentation of the repairs for your records and any future claims
For more detailed information on the claims process, check out our step-by-step guide on how to file a homeowners insurance claim.
What to do after replacing your roof
Once your new roof is in place, there are a few important steps you can take:
- Let your insurance company know. Newer roofs may qualify you for lower premiums, so be sure to update your policy.
- Save your records. Hang on to receipts, warranties and any documentation from the contractor.
- Schedule regular inspections. Catching minor issues early can help prevent bigger problems down the road.
- Maintain your roof surroundings. Trim nearby trees and clean your gutters to help protect against storm damage and leaks.
Check your coverage before and after the replacement so you know what’s included and what’s not. Amica can help you understand your options and find the coverage that’s right for you.
FAQs
It usually depends on the cause of the leak. Most policies cover roof leaks that are the result of sudden damage from perils like wind, hail or fire. But if the leak is due to wear and tear or lack of maintenance, it’s usually not covered. Every policy is different, so it’s best to check with your insurance company to understand what’s included in your specific coverage.
Yes, in most cases, you’ll need to pay a deductible when filing a roof claim. The deductible is the amount you’re responsible for before your insurance covers any repair or replacement costs. The amount depends on your policy, so it’s a good idea to review your deductible before filing a claim.
It’s possible. Premium changes depend on several factors, including the severity of the damage, your claim history and your insurer’s guidelines.
Yes, you can hire a contractor of your choice. Your insurer may offer to match you with a licensed and vetted contractor in their network, but the final decision is up to you.
Your Policy, Policy Declarations or Amended Declarations in effect on the date of loss is the primary source of reference for your coverage, coverage limits and deductible amounts.
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