No one wants to find damaged shingles or storm damage on their roof. Homeowners insurance is designed to help you recover after unexpected damage, but not all roof repairs are covered.
Does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks and other issues? From monsoon storms to hail damage to fallen trees, it’s important to understand which types of roof damage your policy may help pay for.
The professionals from our family-owned Phoenix roofing company have helped homeowners navigate roofing claims for over 20 years. Below, we break down what kinds of roof damage homeowners insurance typically covers and what it doesn’t.
Top Types of Roof Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance
Does homeowners insurance cover your roof? Not all roof damage qualifies for insurance reimbursement. However, most standard homeowners insurance policies cover damage that results from sudden and accidental events.
These are typically outlined in the “covered perils” section of your policy, and they often include:
Storm Damage
Arizona’s summer monsoons can be intense, and insurance companies know it. If high winds, heavy rain, hail, or even flying debris cause visible damage to your roof, there’s a good chance it’s covered.
You’ll still need to document the damage with photos and possibly schedule a roof inspection to get a valid claim approved.
Fire and Smoke Damage
Whether caused by wildfires or an accident within the home, fire and smoke damage are almost always covered under a homeowner’s insurance policy. This includes burnt or charred roofing materials, smoke-stained materials, and warping from the heat.
Vandalism
Though it’s not common, vandalism-related roof damage, such as intentional punctures, graffiti, or broken shingles, is typically covered by homeowners insurance. As with all claims, prompt documentation is key. You may need a police report in addition to a contractor’s damage report.
Falling Objects
Tree limbs, palm fronds, or even satellite dishes that detach during a storm can cause sudden damage. If the falling object wasn’t due to neglect, like a rotting tree you should’ve removed, insurance will likely pay for repairs.
Burst Pipes and Accidental Water Damage
Although most water damage inside the home is unrelated to roofing, a burst pipe in the attic or a backed-up AC line can affect roof decking or underlayment. If the cause is sudden and accidental, yet not due to maintenance issues, it may qualify for coverage.
Snow and Ice Damage
Arizona homeowners in higher elevations, such as Flagstaff, may deal with ice dams or heavy snowfall. If the added weight causes your roof to sag or leak, it could be considered a covered peril under your policy.
Things Insurance Does Not Cover
While homeowners insurance covers sudden damage, it does not act as a maintenance plan. Many claims are denied because the damage is considered normal wear and tear, preventable or cosmetic in nature.
Understanding these exclusions helps set realistic expectations and can save you time when filing a claim.
Common roof damage that’s not covered by homeowners insurance includes:
Normal Wear and Tear
Over time, roofing materials naturally degrade. Shingles crack, sealants wear off, and granules wash away. Unfortunately, this type of slow deterioration is not covered by insurance.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?
A leaky roof is one of the most common reasons homeowners file an insurance claim, but coverage depends entirely on what caused the leak.
We can help you with your claim and walk you through the entire process. We can do as little or as much as you would like us to do. Some customers prefer to be the main point of contact and handle the claim with advice from us and others have us handle the entire claim process, with their approval every step of the way.
Situations Covered by Homeowners Insurance
The question, “Does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks?” is not as simple as you might think. There are a handful of specific instances where your insurance will cover a roof leak.
This may be the case if the leak is a result of:
- Wind-driven rain or storm damage
- A fallen tree branch
- Hail damage
- Vandalism or fire
- Accidental damage from another part of the home (like a burst pipe in the attic)
Why You Are Covered
Most policies cover roof leaks under your dwelling coverage. If water damage affects your belongings or forces you to leave your home, personal property and loss-of-use coverage may also be applicable.
For example:
- Dwelling coverage pays for structural repairs
- Personal property covers damaged furniture or electronics
- Loss of use reimburses hotel or meal costs if your home becomes uninhabitable
Is Water Damage Covered?
Water damage coverage depends on how and where it starts. If the leak comes from an event like hail or wind, homeowners insurance will likely cover both the roof and interior water damage.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Damage from Trees and Storms?
Monsoon season in Arizona can bring high winds and falling branches. If a tree crashes into your home and damages the roof, most insurance policies will cover it if the tree was healthy and the fall was sudden and accidental.
Will Homeowners Insurance Cover a New Roof Because of Tree Damage?
If your current roof is beyond repair, your insurance provider may approve full roof replacement under your dwelling coverage.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Hail Damage to Your Roof?
Hail can compromise the integrity of your entire roofing system. Most homeowners insurance policies cover hail damage as long as it’s sudden and causes visible harm. In Arizona, hailstorms may not be frequent, but when they hit, they can be intense.
Will Homeowners Insurance Pay for a Full Roof Replacement Due to Hail Damage?
If the hailstorm caused widespread damage across your roof, or if repair isn’t feasible, your insurer may approve a full roof replacement. This depends on the severity of the impact and the type of policy you have.
Will a New Roof Lower My Insurance Premiums?
In many cases, it will. Insurance companies may offer lower premiums if your home has a newer, more durable roof, especially if it’s made of wind- and impact-resistant materials.
Do You Need to Pay a Deductible for a Roof Replacement?
Yes. Most insurance policies include a deductible that you must pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in. The amount varies depending on your policy.
Filing an Insurance Claim For Roof Damage
Dealing with insurance companies after a storm can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can help you better prepare. Here’s a quick overview of what will happen when you file an insurance claim:
- Inspect for roof damage as soon as it’s safe to do so. If you think you may have an insurance claim, call Right Way Roofing, Inc. and we can help you with the process.
- Take photos and videos for documentation.
- Schedule a professional inspection to verify roof condition.
- File a claim with your insurance provider.
- Meet with an adjuster alongside your roofing contractor.
- Begin repairs or full replacement if approved.
What Will Insurance Cover?
The reimbursement you get from your homeowner’s insurance depends on the type of policy you have. Two of the most common kinds of policies are Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies and Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies.
Actual Cash Value Policy
This type of policy reimburses you for your roof’s current market value, factoring in age and wear. If your roof is 15+ years old, the reimbursement amount may be much lower than the actual replacement cost.
Replacement Cost Value Policy
An RCV policy pays the full cost of replacing your roof with similar materials, minus your deductible. This is often the more homeowner-friendly option, but premiums may be higher.
Professional Roofing Repair and Replacement Services
Whether you’re filing a claim for storm damage or worried about a leak that’s getting worse, we’re here to help. Right Way Roofing has served Arizona families for over 22 years, offering expert roofing installation and roofing repair services in Phoenix, Arizona. Our solutions are backed by honesty, quality, and a neighborly touch.
Need to confirm damage, explore replacement options, or just get answers from someone you trust? Schedule your roofing inspection today with our team of trusted roofing experts.Give our staff a call at (866) 764-6379 to receive assistance.