Most homeowner’s insurance policies provide coverage for roof damage occasioned by unpreventable incidents such as vandalism or fire. Emergency “acts of God” such as hail, wind, tornadoes, and hurricanes are also usually covered. It is essential to know the specifics of your homeowners’ insurance policy by reading through the fine prints or contacting your insurance agent.
Here is how insurance covers roof replacement after storm damage.
How the Damage Occurred
Some insurance policies take into account the age of your roof at the time of damage. For example, a roof under ten years old may be covered for the full cost of replacement or repair at the time of the claim. If the roof is over ten years old, your insurer may only reimburse you for the depreciated value of your damaged roof.
The depreciated value will take into account the age and condition of your roofing system. Sometimes, depending on the weather in your area, your policy will only offer roof coverage up to the depreciated value regardless of the current age of your roof.
The Extent of Damage
Before filing an insurance claim, be sure to have your roofer assess the damage and determine how significant the damage is. If only one area of your roof is damaged, your roofer will provide an estimate and compare it with your deductible to determine if it’s necessary to file a claim. When the damage is substantial and requires a full roof replacement, you will need to begin your claim process as soon as possible.
In most cases, your insurer will send an inspector to your home to assess and verify your claim. If the roof damage is determined to be from wear and tear, aging, or poor condition of your roof, it is considered a routine maintenance issue. It will not be eligible for reimbursement under your policy.
In some instances, mold caused by continued leaks or water damage may not be covered by your insurance policy. Inspecting your roof regularly is crucial to prevent leaks and avoid unnecessary damage. Whenever you experience leaks due to a damaged roof, be sure to schedule repairs to prevent water damage promptly.
Filing an Insurance Claim
To ease your insurance claim experience and receive proper settlement for your loss, be sure to take clear “before” photos of your roof. Always add updated images whenever you carry out any maintenance or repair. After damage occurs, take a fresh set of “after” photos. Working with an experienced local roofer can help you document and record the damage to make your claim process smooth and hassle-free.
Get the Help You Need Today!
If your roof has been affected by Mother Nature, Midwest Roofing Siding & Windows in the Twin Cities can help! We provide reliable roofing repair and replacement services to help get your home back to shape as quickly as possible. Our experienced roofing consultants can also assist you with the insurance claim process. Contact our trusted team today to get a free roofing estimate!