Home insurance may cover roof leaks, but it depends on the situation and your policy. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically cover roof repair or replacement if the damage is caused by a sudden and accidental leak. However, they don’t usually cover a leaking roof or related damages if the source of the leak is wear and tear or poor maintenance.
When does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks?
Homeowners insurance covers roof leaks in your home and other structures on your property, such as a detached garage, if a covered peril causes them. Commonly covered perils include unexpected events, such as a tree falling during a storm or roof damage caused by hail or high winds.
If you have an older home or live in an area where natural disaster claims are prevalent, such as coastal Florida, you may be eligible for a roof surfacing payment schedule (RSPS). This type of endorsement reduces your coverage as your roof ages. For instance, a new roof may be covered at 100%, while a five-year-old roof may only be covered at 80%.
Though this type of endorsement does not increase coverage for your roof, it can make it easier to get coverage in situations where you may otherwise be denied, like when your roof is near the end of its lifespan.
When are roof leaks not covered?
Home insurance doesn’t cover roof leaks in all scenarios. You may be on the hook for pricey out-of-pocket repairs if one of the following leads to the leak:
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Poor maintenance. Leaks caused by negligence or lack of maintenance aren’t usually covered. For instance, if you don't clean your gutters and water backup ruins your roof shingles and causes a leak, your insurance company may not pay for your roof damage.
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Wear and tear. Insurers also exclude coverage for general wear and tear. If your roof has aging, worn-out, or missing shingles that allow water to seep through, your claim may not be covered.
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Pests. Standard homeowners insurance policies often don’t cover damage caused by pest infestations (e.g., termites, rats, squirrels, etc.). For example, if you fail to address a roof leak and the moisture attracts termites, any cosmetic or structural damage to your home won’t be covered by insurance.
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Other excluded perils. A standard home insurance policy typically excludes damage caused by several perils, such as floods or earthquakes. You’ll need a separate policy for those coverages.
How to file a claim for a roof leak
If your home insurance policy covers your roof leak, these tips can help you successfully file a claim.
Document the damage with photos
Thorough documentation helps your claims adjuster understand the specifics of your case and improves the likelihood of your claim approval. Take photos or videos of any related issues, such as water damage, stains, and leakage. Also note affected areas and any damaged personal belongings.
Contact your insurance provider promptly
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Filling a claim quickly can make it easier to establish a relationship between the damage and the peril causing it, limiting further damage. Further, your homeowners policy may also have language that limits how long you have to notify your insurer.
Most insurance companies allow policyholders to file a claim through their online claims form or mobile app or by speaking with one of their agents. To review your options and locate your insurance company’s contact information, visit your company’s contact page on its website.
To file a claim, you’ll likely need:
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Your insurance and personal information (policy number, address, contact information)
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Details of the incident (date, cause of loss, condition of the damaged property)
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Photos or videos of damage
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Receipts or invoices for any temporary repairs
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Your home inventory if filing a personal property claim
Choose a contractor
Your home insurance company will issue a claim payment for covered repairs or replacements, but you’re responsible for finding a contractor to complete the work.
In most cases, an insurer will provide the policyholder with a list of recommended or approved contractors who can complete claim-related repairs. You’re often not required to work a contractor on that list, but some insurers require it. Always check with your insurer to understand your obligations.
Even if you don’t need to use an approved contractor, there are benefits to doing so. For instance, it can reduce the risk of claim issues and ensure quality work, as your insurer will likely limit recommendations to contractors with a proven track record.
However, if you do choose an alternative contractor, make sure they’re licensed, insured, and qualified to do the work you need.
Tips for successful roof leak claims
If you need to file a roof repair claim, these tips can help make the process easier.
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Keep thorough documentation. Document the damage to ensure it’s clear that a covered peril occurred and caused your roof to leak. Documentation can include video and/or photos of the damage as well as receipts and invoices for repairs. Be sure to ask your insurance adjuster what information or other pieces of evidence they may require.
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Maintain a home inventory. If the roof leak damages other items in your house, a home inventory can help verify your loss. A good home inventory includes photos or videos of your personal items, their purchase dates, and their replacement costs.
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Know what your insurance covers. Insurance doesn’t always cover roof leaks. Review your policy to determine what is covered and any exclusions so you aren’t blindsided after an incident.
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Contact your insurer promptly. When it comes to filing home insurance claims, time is of the essence. Waiting too long to address a leaky roof can lead to additional damage and more costly repairs. As a result, your insurer may even reduce or deny coverage. How long you have to report a claim varies by state. Review your policy or contact your insurance agent if you have any questions regarding claim deadlines.
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Keep track of all communication. Depending on the complexity of your case, it can take months for insurers to settle your claim. Taking note of whom you speak to (e.g., claims adjuster, contractors, and any other related parties) and the information they’ve provided can help ensure a smooth claims process.
Does home insurance cover mold caused by a roof leak?
Homeowners insurance may cover mold if an unexpected event causes your roof to leak. For example, if a strong storm compromises the integrity of your roof, insurance may help pay for the damage resulting from it, and that could include mold. However, if your roof leaks due to an excluded issue, such as poor maintenance or wear and tear, mold likely won’t be covered.
How do you know if your roof is too old to be insured?
Generally, homeowners may have an issue finding coverage for a roof that is 15 to 20 years old or older. However, the exact age an insurer considers a roof to be “too old” will depend on the insurer’s underwriting guidelines.
Age limits are another reason ββto pay attention to the condition of your roof. Watching for signs that it’s time to replace it can make it easier to find affordable home insurance.