Understanding how homeowners insurance handles roof damage—before you file a claim—can save you time, money, and stress. While insurance often covers certain types of unexpected damage, it doesn’t cover everything. The details depend on the cause of the damage, the condition of your roof, and the specifics of your policy.
This guide answers common questions homeowners ask about roof damage and insurance coverage.
Does homeowners insurance cover roof damage?
Yes, homeowners insurance typically covers roof damage caused by sudden, accidental events—known as “covered perils.” These can include things like storms, fire, or falling trees. But damage caused by neglect, age, or normal wear and tear is usually not covered.
Insurance is designed to help with unexpected damage, not problems that develop slowly over time.
What is a “covered peril”?
A covered peril is any event listed in your homeowners insurance policy as a valid reason for coverage. For roof damage, covered perils often include:
- Windstorms
- Hail damage
- Falling objects (like trees or branches)
- Fire or smoke damage
- Vandalism
- Sudden water damage from storm openings
- Lightning strikes
- Weight of snow or ice
Not every policy is the same—so review your coverage carefully. Depending on the type of roof damage, you may qualify for a roof replacement or it might only cover the cost of repairs to the damage of your roof.
What kind of roof damage is not covered by insurance?
Most insurance policies exclude damage caused by:
- General aging or wear and tear
- Lack of maintenance
- Improper installation
- Mold, algae, or rot
- Pest infestations
- Cosmetic issues (e.g., shingle fading)
If the insurer believes the damage could have been prevented, they may deny the claim.
Does insurance cover roof leaks?
It depends on what caused the leak.
- If a storm caused a tree to punch a hole in your roof and water entered your home, most home insurance covers that kind of damage.
- But if the leak is from worn shingles or poor flashing over time, it’s usually considered maintenance-related, and not covered.
How does the age of your roof affect coverage?
The older your roof is, the harder it can be to get full coverage. Many insurance companies:
- Provide full replacement cost value (RCV) for newer roofs (often under 10–15 years)
- Offer depreciated value or limited coverage for older roofs
- May deny coverage entirely for roofs over a certain age (e.g., 20+ years)
A newer, well-maintained roof is more likely to be covered—and reimbursed at a higher rate.
Will my roofing material affect my insurance coverage?
Yes. Some insurance companies view certain roofing materials as more durable and less likely to result in claims. For example:
- Metal roofs often receive favorable treatment due to fire resistance and longevity
- Wood shake or older asphalt shingles may increase premiums or limit coverage
- Clay and slate may be covered, but with repair complexity taken into account
Your material type might also affect your deductible or how reimbursement is calculated.
What happens when you file a roof damage claim?
If your roof is damaged and you plan to file a claim, here’s what typically happens:
- Document the damage with photos and notes
- Contact your insurance company to report the issue
- An adjuster will inspect the roof and determine the cause and extent of the damage
- If the claim is approved, you’ll receive compensation based on the terms of your policy
Some policies offer RCV (replacement cost value) while others pay ACV (actual cash value), which factors in depreciation.
Should I repair or replace the roof before contacting insurance?
Avoid making permanent repairs before speaking with your insurance provider—especially if it could hide the cause of the damage. Temporary protection (like tarps) is okay, but full repairs could jeopardize your claim.
Always contact your insurance company first, and follow their instructions for inspections and documentation.
Can I choose my own roofing contractor after a claim?
Yes. Most policies allow you to choose your own licensed contractor—even if the insurance company provides recommendations. You’re not obligated to go with their pick.
Choose a contractor with experience working with insurance claims and who can help you understand what’s covered.
Will filing a roof claim increase my insurance premiums?
It’s possible. Filing any insurance claim can affect your premiums. However, a single claim from a major storm event is less likely to cause a significant increase than repeated claims or damage from poor upkeep.
How can I improve my chances of a successful roof insurance claim?
- Maintain your roof regularly with inspections and basic upkeep
- Document the condition of your roof before damage occurs
- Know what your policy includes—and where it has exclusions
- Act quickly after damage happens, and provide detailed evidence
- Work with a reputable roofing contractor who understands the claims process
Navigating roof insurance claims can be tricky—but understanding your policy, documenting damage clearly, and staying proactive makes all the difference.
What Kind of Roof Damage Is Covered By Insurance FAQS
Does homeowners insurance cover a full roof replacement?
It can—if the damage was caused by a covered peril. Events like hail, fire, windstorms, or fallen trees often qualify for full replacement under your policy, especially if the roof was in good condition beforehand. However, if the roof was already aging or poorly maintained, you may only receive partial reimbursement—or none at all.
What is considered normal wear and tear on a roof?
Normal wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration of roofing materials over time due to exposure to sun, rain, wind, and temperature changes. Insurance companies don’t cover damage that results from this kind of aging—like brittle shingles, minor leaks, or faded materials—because it’s considered the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain.
Will insurance cover roof damage from a storm?
Yes, roof damage from storms is often covered by homeowners insurance, especially if caused by wind, hail, or falling debris. These are considered sudden, accidental events. Always check your policy, as some plans may have hail or wind exclusions, or require specific endorsements.
What does replacement cost value (RCV) mean in roof insurance?
Replacement cost value (RCV) means your insurer will cover the full cost to replace your damaged roof with a new one—without subtracting for depreciation. This is typically more favorable than actual cash value (ACV), which factors in age and condition. Not all policies offer RCV, so confirm with your provider.
Can roof leaks be covered by homeowners insurance?
Sometimes. If the leak was caused by a covered event—like a fallen tree or hailstorm—then the resulting water damage and the roof repair itself may be covered. But if the leak developed gradually due to neglect or old age, it’s unlikely your insurance will pay for the repairs.
Need help after roof damage?
At Mountaintop Metal Roofing, we’re here to answer your questions about insurance claims, roof assessments, and the next steps—without the pressure. We help you understand your options and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a roof evaluation or talk through your storm damage concerns.