6 Common Damage Scenarios: When Will Insurance Cover Roof Repair or Roof Replacements?

6 Common Damage Scenarios: When Will Insurance Cover Roof Repair or Roof Replacement?

Residential Roofing, Storm Damage / By / November 27, 2024

As a homeowner, have you ever wondered if your homeowner’s insurance policy covers particular types of roof damage? Specifically, do you know if your provider indemnifies you for roof repair services? Most homeowners know that roof replacements are included in a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. However, roof repairs fall into a separate category that may receive coverage depending on the circumstances. We answer the question, “Will insurance cover roof repair?”

Will Insurance Cover Roof Repair? Exploring 6 Scenarios

Homeowners want to know whether their insurance policy protects them if an unfortunate event occurs. Naturally, the answer depends on the type of HO-3 policy and the insurer. Consider the following reasons for roof damage in context with insurance provider practices:

A sudden accidental event may result in indemnification from the homeowner’s insurance company. Gradual deterioration of a roofing system due to normal or excess wear and tear, age, or neglect (lack of routine maintenance and upkeep) typically will not result in coverage. For example, if a roof is near the end of its useful life (i.e., it needs replacement in the next 1 to 3 years), an insurance provider will likely take this factor into close consideration if the roof becomes damaged due to an accident beyond the homeowner’s control. 

Generally, most insurers will indemnify the homeowner against damage caused by a fallen tree, branch, or limb. This provision typically includes coverage if a tree from a neighboring yard causes damage to your home. (Note: You may need to work through your neighbor’s insurance if the tree fell due to your neighbor’s negligence.) Whether your policy provides coverage for a fallen tree depends on what caused the tree to fall and what class of damage resulted. You also may receive reimbursement for tree removal depending on policy terms.

It depends on what caused the fire. If the fire sparked because of a situation beyond the homeowner’s control, most insurance companies will provide full coverage less the deductible. On the other hand, if the fire ignited for a reason that the homeowner directly or indirectly caused or failed to demonstrate a reasonable response (proper care), the provider could deny a claim. Homeowner’s insurance policy terms and conditions require homeowners to avoid acts of negligence (especially gross negligence) if they want coverage.

A natural disaster may encompass the following perils: hurricane, tornado, tropical storm, thunderstorm, windstorm, hailstorm, snowstorm, ice storm, sleet, lightning strike, or wildfire. In these instances, a homeowner’s insurance policy will typically indemnify a homeowner against a loss. However, an insurer may require the homeowner to have separate coverage for floods and earthquakes as they do not come under the auspices of a standard HO-3. That said, a homeowner needs to review the terms to ensure they know what to expect.

A leaky roof usually receives coverage under a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. However, the underlying cause of the leak matters. An insurer may deny indemnification if the homeowner has acted negligently by failing to timely address a known roofing issue before it mushrooms into something far more consequential. Most HO-3 policies demand a homeowner act responsibly (as an incentive to preserve coverage) and exercise reasonable diligence to maintain their roof’s condition by employing needed repairs and upkeep.

The excess weight of snow or ice may lead to a roof sagging or collapsing. It also could produce other structural problems with the roof or home. Most insurance providers will extend coverage to homeowners who suffer a loss due to the weight of snow or ice. That said, homeowners should exercise reasonable diligence to mitigate the weight of snow and ice accumulation on their roofing systems. It is to the homeowner’s benefit to limit the weight of snow or ice since a collapsed roof may cause untold damage to a home’s interior.

Shingles blown off roof by storm
Roof damage that needs to be submitted to insurance.

Improving Your Odds To Receive An Approved Insurance Claim

As a homeowner, you enhance the likelihood of success in submitting a claim for approval if you exercise reasonable care of your roofing system. Will insurance cover roof repair? Your chances are better if you follow these suggestions:

1. Have an annual inspection performed by a knowledgeable roofing contractor.

2. Perform roof repairs as needed.

3. Exercise reasonable upkeep, including routine gutter cleaning and removing excess debris from the roof. 

Additionally, continuously maintain written records (including clear photographs, accurate video recordings, precise written estimates, comprehensive inspection reports, and detailed written notes) of your roof’s condition over time. Your insurer will respect documented evidence of your roof’s history much more than word of mouth with nothing more.

Finding A Roofing Professional Who Handles Repairs

If you own a home in the Twin Cities, trust the experts at Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows to provide the right advice for your roof. We know what it takes to repair a roof, including minor fixes and major restoration work. We also handle roofing needs, such as comprehensive inspections and full replacements. To learn more about our roofing services or to schedule a consultation and receive a free estimate, contact us today.

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