Roof Damage and Your Homeowners’ Insurance
Roof Damage and Your Homeowners’ Insurance
Roofs are one of the largest and most important features of a home. Its coverage is also a critical part of any homeowners’ insurance policy. Roof coverage has some unique aspects to it. Homeowners’ should be aware to have the right expectations when it comes to claims and to take full advantage of the coverage they have. Here are some things you should know about roof damage and your homeowners’ insurance.
I need a new roof. Will my homeowners’ insurance pay for it?
Not if you need a new roof because your roof has outlived its lifespan. If a roof needs to be replaced due to age and simple wear and tear, the homeowner will be responsible for the cost of replacement. Now, if the roof has been damaged due to a covered peril, act of nature or through an accident, your homeowners’ insurance policy will usually cover its replacement.
My roof has a leak. Will homeowners insurance pay to repair it?
If the leak is due to wind damage or some other covered peril, leak repair should be covered. If the leak is the result of lack of maintenance repairs likely will not be covered.
What steps do I take to file a claim?
First, have a qualified roofing company provide an estimate on repairs or a full replacement if necessary. Contact your insurance representative to file a claim. Once your claim is filed you will probably be contacted by an adjuster who will validate your claim and offer a settlement.
Can I use my settlement check and make repairs myself?
Most insurance companies don’t have an issue with this. There are risks, however. If repairs or replacement isn’t properly done, you will be responsible for any additional repairs. In some cases, the terms of the homeowners’ insurance may require use of a licensed, qualified contractor. It is best to check your policy.
You should also beware that payments for roof damage claims are sometimes adjusted by the age of the roof. In other words, the older your roof is, the less your insurance policy may pay. Contact your insurance agent for details.
If you haven’t reviewed your homeowners’ insurance policy in years, your home may have outgrown its coverage. Contact our independent agents for a no-cost, homeowners’ insurance review. We may be able to find you improved coverage at a more affordable price. We look forward to assisting you with your roof-related and other homeowners’ insurance questions.
Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder
Search All Blogs
Search All Blogs
Read More Blogs
Relatively Rare Home Damage Incidents and Home Insurance
Would You Be Covered For These Unusual Claims?
What’s the Difference?
What IS the Difference?
Business Insurance and Your Non-Profit
Operating a Non-Profit Can Be Risky Business
Do You Still Need Life Insurance After Age 65?
How Life Insurance Can Help into Retirement
Six Easy Tips to Safer Driving
How to Be Safer and Save on Car Insurance Rates
Six Easy Tips to Safer Driving
How to Be Safer and Save on Car Insurance Rates
Vehicle Manufacturing Quirks of Which You May Not Be Aware
Some Automaker Secrets May Surprise You
Ouch! Common Burns in the Home
Why You Should Be Careful As Homeowners
Five Horses Famous for Very Different Reasons
The Most Noted Equines of History, Literature, Entertainment and Sports.
Want More Stress? Don’t Get Business Insurance.
10 Possible Calamities in the Next 10 Hours