Roof Damage and Home Insurance: What’s Covered and What’s Not
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, but over time, it takes a beating from weather, falling debris, and everyday wear. When damage occurs, many homeowners assume their insurance will cover the repairs or replacement. However, roof coverage isn’t always that simple. While homeowners insurance protects against sudden, unexpected events, it does not cover issues related to age, neglect, or gradual deterioration. Here’s what you need to know about roof damage, common causes of loss, and what your insurance may or may not cover.
Common Causes of Roof Damage
Several factors can cause damage to your roof, but not all of them are covered by insurance. The most common covered perils include:
Storm Damage – High winds, hail, and heavy rain can tear off shingles, puncture roofing materials, or cause leaks. Wind and hail damage are among the most frequent reasons for roof claims.
Falling Objects – Trees, branches, and even airborne debris from storms can land on your roof, leading to significant damage. If a tree falls due to a covered peril, your insurance will typically pay for roof repairs and, in some cases, the cost of removing the tree.
Fire & Lightning – Fires, whether from a nearby wildfire or an electrical issue, can destroy a roof in minutes. Lightning strikes can also cause structural damage, leading to insurance-covered repairs.
Snow & Ice – Heavy snow accumulation or ice dams can cause sagging, leaks, and structural damage. If sudden weight from snow or ice leads to a collapse, your policy may cover the repairs.
When Insurance Covers Roof Damage
For roof damage to be covered, it must be caused by a sudden and accidental event listed in your homeowners insurance policy. Most standard policies cover perils such as:
Wind & hail
Fire & smoke damage
Lightning strikes
Snow or ice collapse
Falling trees or debris
If your roof is damaged due to one of these events, your insurance will typically help cover repair or replacement costs. However, policies vary—some may only cover roof repairs rather than full replacement, especially if your roof is older.
When Insurance Won’t Cover Roof Damage
There are certain situations where roof damage is not covered by insurance, including:
Wear & Tear or Age – Roofs naturally deteriorate over time due to sun exposure, wind, and regular use. If your shingles are curling, cracking, or missing due to age, your insurance won’t cover it.
Poor Maintenance – If your roof has pre-existing damage that was never repaired or wasn’t properly maintained, your claim may be denied. Homeowners are expected to keep their roof in good condition.
Gradual Leaks & Water Damage – If water has been seeping through your roof for months or years due to poor upkeep, insurers may classify it as neglect rather than a sudden loss, meaning it won’t be covered.
Installation Defects – If your roof was installed incorrectly or low-quality materials were used, any resulting damage may not be covered by your insurance. These types of issues are considered a construction or warranty problem rather than an insurable event.
Protect Your Roof & Your Investment
The best way to ensure your roof is covered when you need it is to stay ahead of maintenance. Regular inspections, quick repairs, and keeping gutters clean can help prevent major issues. If your roof is over 20 years old, your insurance company may limit coverage or require higher deductibles.
Not sure what your homeowners insurance covers? Hixson and Malinowski Insurance can help you review your policy and ensure you have the right protection in place. Contact us today to discuss your coverage and make sure you’re prepared for the unexpected.
