Most home insurance policies cover roof replacement if the damage is the result of an act of nature or a sudden accidental event. Most homeowners insurance policies don't pay to replace or repair a roof that gradually deteriorates due to wear and tear or neglect. If you're wondering if insurance covers roof replacement, it depends on the circumstances. A home insurance policy covers damage to things like the structure and roof if they are damaged by a covered hazard.
Some policies name or exclude specific hazards. If your roof needs to be replaced due to unexpected natural events or adverse weather conditions other than floods, it's likely that you're covered. However, if your roof is older or requires maintenance and repair, standard home insurance generally won't reimburse for roof replacement. Homeowners may need additional home warranty coverage for their roof, specifically if they are looking for additional roof protection.
As stated above, if the damage to your roof was caused by an act of nature or an unforeseen accident, the roof collapsed, a storm tore off the asphalt shingles, or a fire, your roof replacement coverage is likely covered by coverage. On the other hand, if a homeowner has an old roof damaged by a sudden covered event, such as a windstorm, the insurance company could reimburse the landlord the real cash value of the roof. Since insurance companies generally don't cover claims that result from preventable damage, insurance adjusters will take a close look at the condition and material of the roof should you need to file a roof claim. If the damage to the roof is considered cosmetic, homeowner's insurance may not reimburse the homeowner for their roof insurance claim.
For example, if a tree fell to your roof due to a storm or your roof was damaged as a result of a fire, your home insurance is likely to help pay for roof repair or replacement. Since 1990, Bill Ragan Roofing has processed hundreds of insurance claims for roof damage for Nashville residents. A 20-year-old roof or older can only cause an insurer to reimburse you what an old roof is worth at the time of damage, after decades of wear and tear. If you're replacing your roof through home insurance, it's critical that you hire a roofing contractor who has experience handling insurance claims.
Unfortunately, when the insurance adjuster comes to inspect, he discovers that his roof was not installed using the correct roofing techniques. You can also request an estimate of the cost of replacing the roof to decide if the cost of a new roof outweighs the risk of being denied home insurance coverage, DeLuise says. Keep reading to learn more about how to file a roof replacement claim, whether standard homeowners insurance covers roof leaks, if there are any coverage limitations for your roof, and more. Your insurer may refuse to renew your policy if your roof is 20 years old or older and doesn't pass the roof inspection.
Having an old, worn roof can make it harder for homeowners insurance to cover roof damage. You should also hire a roofing contractor who has experience in insurance work when you request a replacement for your roof.
