Are you suffering from a leaky roof after a storm? Wind-damaged shingles? Hail punctures? If so, you might not have to worry about paying for the repairs out-of-pocket—in many cases, your homeowner’s insurance will cover either all or the majority of the costs, leaving you to pay only a small deductible.
It may sound too good to be true, but it’s actually the reality of your policy. Read on to learn more about when your roof damage is covered by your insurance, when it might not be, and the steps you need to take in order to get it paid for.
Will Insurance Company Cover My Roof Damage?
Typically, homeowner’s insurance policies will cover roof damage caused by “covered perils”. These are specific types of events that can cause damage to your property, and usually fall under the category of natural disasters or accidents. Some examples include:
Hail
One of the most common types of roof damage homeowners experience is hail damage. Hail, regardless of its size, can cause your shingles to crack, puncture, or become dislodged.
Fallen Debris
Strong winds or heavy snow can cause branches (or, in extreme cases, full trees) to fall onto your home, resulting in significant damage or holes in your roofing.
Snow, Sleet, or Ice
The weight of heavy snow or sleet can threaten the structural integrity of your roof, leading to an eventual collapse. Ice dams can also clog your gutters and cause roof leaks.
Fire
Fire damage, whether it’s caused by a lightning strike, power surge, or other accidental incident, can cause significant damage to your roof.
When Will My Insurance Not Cover Roof Damage?
Unfortunately, your insurance company won’t always cover roof damage. As mentioned above, if the cause of the damage doesn’t fall under the “covered perils” outlined in your policy, you’ll be left paying for the roof repair or replacement on your own.
Some examples of excluded coverage include:
- Wear and tear: If your roof suffers from damage due to natural wear and tear over time, such as leaks caused by aging shingles, your insurance won’t cover it.
- Neglect: If you fail to take care of your roof or make necessary repairs, such as patching up a hole before an incoming storm, the resulting damage is not covered.
- Earthquake: Although earthquakes aren’t common in Wisconsin, if your roof is damaged by any ground movement, you won’t be eligible for coverage.
- Animals or pests: If your roof or attic becomes infested with animals or pests, and they cause damage, your insurance company won’t cover it.
It’s important to note that every insurance policy is different, and coverage may vary. You will want to take the time to review your policy to see whether your roof damage is or isn’t covered. If you have questions, contact your insurance provider to ask for clarification.
How to File an Insurance Claim for Roof Damage
If you discover roof damage that you believe will be covered by your homeowners’ insurance, then you’re going to want to file a claim. This process can sometimes seem long and convoluted, but it’s worth it to take the time to do it right.
Rushing the process can lead to mistakes, and mistakes can give your insurance company a reason to deny your claim. Remember to stay calm and follow these steps:
1. Limit Additional Damages
If you notice damage to your roof, take steps to prevent additional damage. This can include patching holes, laying down tarps, or making temporary repairs. Make sure to save any receipts, as your insurance company can reimburse you later.
2. Document the Damages
You’re going to want to take pictures or videos of the damage. (Do this safely! If you can’t get access to the roof, then take photos from the ground.) These will later be submitted as documentation to your insurance company to prove your claim is legitimate.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
You’re going to want to let your insurance company know what happened. This does not mean you’ll be filing the claim now; you’ll just be giving them some preliminary information, such as what the damages are, when they happened, and what caused them.
4. Get an Estimate From a Reliable Roofer
You’re going to want to get an estimate from a reliable roofing company. They’ll give you a quote for the replacement or repairs, which you’ll then submit to your insurance company for approval. (If your claim is approved, your roofing contractor will submit the bill to your insurance company.)
5. Submit Necessary Paperwork
Once you get your documentation, estimates, and paperwork all in order, you’re going to want to submit them all with your claim to your insurance company. You’re going to want to do this in a timely manner—if you wait too long after the incident, your claim may be rejected. Most insurers have a deadline of up to a year after the date of the damage.
Need Help Navigating Roof Damage? Contact Start Roofing & Restoration Today
Have you suffered roof damage but are unsure whether your roof repair or replacement may be covered by insurance? Then contact Standard Roofing & Restoration today! We offer free consultations where one of our experts will inspect your roof and provide insurance guidance, helping you navigate the claim process.