Like many homeowners, you likely have a homeowners insurance policy to protect you from unexpected disasters. The last thing you want to worry about after a disaster is the cost of making essential repairs. Your insurance covers everything from devastating wind or hail storm damage to your home’s siding to recovering from a fire.
But, you may find yourself wondering whether your insurance will cover the cost of a new roof. Ultimately, whether your insurance covers the cost of a new roof will depend on the kind of damage you’re dealing with and what caused this damage. If you need a new roof and want to learn more about whether your homeowners insurance policy will cover it, keep reading.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Replacement?
If you want to determine whether your homeowners insurance policy will cover your new roof, it may be best to contact the insurance company to discuss the service. However, there are a few situations in which they will cover damage and the need for replacement. Most standard insurance policies cover roof replacement if a sudden and accidental peril causes the damage.
This damage typically includes:
- Storm damage from wind, hail, heavy rain, or snow
- Fire or smoke damage
- Fallen objects like tree branches
- Vandalism or other malicious acts
For example, if a storm rips shingles off your roof or leaves visible dents or holes in the roof, your homeowners insurance policy will likely pay for repairs or replacement, depending on the extent of the damage. However, the extent of the coverage will depend on your policy and the provider’s specific guidelines.
You should also check whether your policy covers replacement or actual cost value. Replacement cost value means you’re reimbursed for replacing your roof with a new one of similar material and quality. Actual cash value factors in depreciation, meaning your insurance may pay out significantly less if your roof is older.
When is Damage Not Covered?
While there are many scenarios in which your homeowners insurance will cover roof replacement, there are several instances where a claim will be denied, including:
- Normal Wear and Tear: Your homeowners insurance is designed to support you through unexpected events, not inevitable deterioration. It is considered a maintenance issue if your roof is old and worn out. Most insurance providers won’t cover a replacement just because your roof has reached the end of its lifespan.
- Improper Maintenance or Installation: If your roof damage is due to neglect, such as failing to fix a leak, remove debris, or maintain your gutters, your insurance provider may deny your claim. Similarly, if your roof was improperly installed or doesn’t meet building code, coverage may be voided, and you’ll have to cover replacement.
- Pre-Existing Damage: Your insurance typically won’t cover damage that existed before the policy went into effect. If your roof was in poor condition when you bought your home or switched insurance providers, you can’t expect them to foot the bill when you schedule a new roof installation.
- Cosmetic Damage Only: If your roof sustains superficial damage, such as a few discolored shingles or minor dents from hail, it may not be sufficient enough to qualify for a replacement. Insurers generally require that the damage affect the roof’s functionality before approving a full replacement.
How to File a Roof Insurance Claim Successfully
If you are going to file a claim for a roof replacement through your homeowners insurance, there are a few things you need to do to ensure you get as much of the project covered as possible. Filing a claim with your insurance can be complex, but taking the right steps improves your chances of approval. To increase your odds of getting the project approved, make sure you:
- Document the Damage: Start this process by taking detailed photos of the damage as soon as possible. Capture different angles and any accompanying interior damage caused by leaks. The more evidence you have, the easier it is to build a solid claim.
- Contact Your Provider Promptly: Your insurance provider may have a limited window for submitting damage claims, usually between 30 and 60 days. If you want to ensure coverage, reach out to your provider as soon as possible to start the process.
- Get a Professional Inspection: Many roofing companies in your area will offer free inspections and provide a report outlining the extent of the damage, likely cause, and estimated repair or replacement cost, which helps you establish your case.
- Review Your Policy: Before you submit a claim, read your homeowners insurance policy carefully to understand what’s covered and any potential exclusions or deductibles that apply. This can help you determine whether the claim is worth filing.
- Be Prepared for an Adjuster Visit: Once you’ve submitted your claim, your provider will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Be present during this inspection, and provide photos, reports, and estimates you’ve gathered to ensure this goes smoothly.
Tips to Protect and Maintain Your Roof
While you can’t prevent every disaster, you can take proactive steps to protect and maintain your roof and ensure you’re covered if something goes wrong. The best way to do this is by:
- Scheduling regular roof inspections and maintenance
- Keeping your roof free of debris
- Making minor repairs as soon as possible
- Documenting roof work and maintenance
With proof of regular maintenance and ongoing protection measures in place, you can hopefully avoid the headache of having to pay out-of-pocket for essential roof repairs.
Invest in a New Roof from Lifetime Roofing
If you want to schedule an inspection before filing a claim through your homeowners insurance, it’s essential that you work with a reliable roofing company, like our team at Lifetime Roofing. With almost 20 years of experience helping homeowners across the Salt Lake City area repair and replace their roofs, we know we can do the same for you. From minor damage to major repairs, we’ve done it all.
If you’d like to learn more about how our team can help you through the homeowners insurance claim process or schedule an inspection, contact us today.
