Roof Repairs and Home Insurance: What’s Covered and What’s Not

February 18, 2025

Roofing repairs are inevitable for homeowners, no thanks to unexpected weather events or gradual wear and tear. Understanding the details of homeowner’s insurance related to roof repair could be the difference between a manageable repair bill and one that makes you cry. Knowing what’s covered, what exclusions apply, and how insurance policies handle specific situations is fundamental to protecting your home and budget.

This post will explain:

This guide will provide the clarity you need to navigate the complexities of roof repair and insurance coverage.

What Perils Are Typically Covered by Home Insurance?

A “covered peril” refers to events or hazards defined in your home insurance policy that may cause damage to your property and, therefore eligible for coverage. Common perils covered include:

Fire: Damage from accidental house fires, wildfires, or lightning strikes
Wind: Damage from strong winds, such as missing shingles or torn-off roof sections.
Hail: Dents or puncture marks from hailstones, leading to roof leaks.
Falling Objects: Damage caused by falling branches or trees during a storm.

While the scenarios above are typically covered under standard home insurance policies, you should know that policy terms vary significantly. The age of your roof or pre-existing damage could affect your claim. Homeowners should carefully review their insurance documents and consult their insurer for coverage clarification.

Coverage for Roofs of Detached Structures

Homeowner’s insurance usually covers detached structures, including sheds, garages, and other outbuildings. Commonly referred to as “other structures protection” this roof coverage will provide financial protection for damage caused by perils like fire, wind, hail, and falling objects.

Check your policy for what’s covered under “other structures protection”. Insurance coverage for detached structures is often capped at a percentage (ex.10%) of your home’s total coverage. You may discover exclusions for depreciation or maintenance-related damage. Especially for customized structures, you’ll want to know how they are covered. You may wish to consider additional endorsements for protection.

Deductibles and Coverage Limits

Reviewing the terms of your deductibles and coverage limits will prepare you for possible out-of-pocket expenses for roof coverage.

Deductibles refer to the required payments homeowners pay before insurance kicks in. If your policy has a $1,000 deductible and your roof repair costs are $8,000, your insurance will cover $7,000 after you have met the deductible. Some policies use a percentage-based deductible for wind, hail, or hurricane damage. Your deductible would then be calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value. For example, if your home is insured for $300,000 and the wind damage deductible is 2%, your required payment would be $6,000 before coverage applies.

You should also review any coverage limits associated with your insurance policy. With home insurance roof repair, this amount is often subject to the full cost of repairing or replacing the roof with the same quality materials. Depreciation could also be factored in, meaning you would receive less for an older roof. Say the cost to replace your roof is $15,000, but an old roof reduces the value by $5,000, your actual cash value would cover $10,000 after the deductible has been met.

Deductibles and coverage limits can vary widely between different insurance policies. To predict your out-of-pocket expenses, you must know your deductible structure and the coverage limits of your insurance plan.

Common Exclusions in Roof Coverage

Know the written exclusions in your homeowner’s insurance policy. Thoroughly read your policy for:

Excluded perils such as hail or windstorm damage
Limitations based on roof age or material
Specific conditions required to maintain coverage, such as regular roof inspections

If you’re unsure about your coverage, consult your insurance provider. Ask about all potential gaps or exclusions. You may wish to adjust your policy with riders for windstorm or hail damage to improve coverage.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Leaks

Will homeowners insurance cover roof leaks? If your roof leaks because of a “covered peril” as outlined in your policy, then yes, your roof coverage includes leaks. If the leak was caused by neglect, wear and tear, or improper maintenance, you’ll likely not be covered for leaks.

To avoid insurance denials, consult your insurance provider on roof-related coverage and maintain your roof well.

Navigating Roof Repairs with Confidence

Know what’s included and excluded from your homeowner’s insurance policy. Protect your finances by understanding your insurance policy and maintaining your roof to prevent avoidable damage.

Contact Preferred Roofing today for expert advice on roof repairs! We proudly serve Kansas City and surrounding areas, including Lee’s Summit. We’re here to help you navigate your roofing needs with confidence.

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