Many variables can come into play when filing an insurance claim for a leaking roof. Anyone who has filed an insurance claim knows the process can be confusing and often frustrating. A common question we get as insurance agents is whether or not roof damage from a leak will be covered. The answer, unfortunately, is not always cut & dry.
Today’s blog post will outline some of the main factors determining if an insurance claim for leaking roof damage will be covered.
But first things first, let’s start with some basics. Homeowners’ insurance policies typically cover accidental direct physical loss to your property unless the loss is excluded. So, a leaking roof won’t be covered if your policy excludes water damage.
That being said, let’s look at some of the other main factors that affect whether or not your homeowner’s insurance will cover an insurance claim for a leaking roof.
1. Consider Your Deductible
Most home insurance policies have a deductible of $500, but some have a deductible as high as $2,000. That means if the repairs cost less than your deductible, you’re stuck paying for them out of pocket. So, filing a claim may not make sense if you’ve got a high deductible and only minor damage. It’s best to call your insurer to ask whether it’s worth filing a claim given your particular deductible amount.
2. Type of Damage
Not all roof damage is created equal. Some types are more likely to be covered than others. For example, if your roof leaks because of shingle granules in the gutter, that’s considered normal wear and tear and isn’t covered. But if a severe storm knocks a tree limb through your roof, that’s considered an “act of God” and is usually covered.
3. Age of Your Roof
If you have an older roof, your insurer may not cover the damage because it’s considered part of the roof’s expected life cycle. Most roofs last about 20 years, so your insurer may not pay for repairs if yours is nearing the end of its lifespan.
4. Maintenance Issues
If you have moss or algae growth, that’s a sign you haven’t been cleaning your gutters regularly. And if you have missing or curling shingles, that’s a sign you haven’t been maintaining your roof. To have a covered claim, you’ll likely need to show proof that you’ve been keeping up with regular maintenance.
5. Poor Workmanship
If the damage to your roof is due to poor workmanship, it may not be covered by insurance. Suppose the contractor who installed your roof didn’t do a good job, and now the roof is leaking. In that case, the insurance company may not cover the repairs. Make sure you hire a reputable contractor to do any work on your home, so you don’t run into this issue.
Curvelo Restorations is here to help you with your insurance company after roof damage in Cumming! We are an expert roofing company that has helped many customers with their insurance claims over the years.
The process of filing a claim can be difficult to understand. But our team will work hard on your behalf to ensure the insurance company pays what they owe according to your homeowner coverage.
