There are certain conditions under which roof leaks are covered by homeowners insurance, but there are some when they’re not. It’s important to know the difference before you make any assumptions–you don’t want to be left without financial assistance if your home sustains a significant leak!

How Do Roof Leaks Work With Homeowners Insurance?

Signs of a Roof Leak

A roof leak is a break in the protective barrier of your home’s exterior that allows water to penetrate the interior, or prevent water from draining away from the interior. Leaks usually happen around chimneys, skylights, and other features on the roof.
 
Some common signs that your roof is leaking include structural damage in the walls or ceilings of your home, visible water stains, “sweating” on pipes in the basement or attic, and musty smells in the interior of your home. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected for a leak.

Does Home Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?

The short answer is that it depends. Generally, you can expect coverage if the damage was caused by an act of nature or peril. If your home sustained damage due to an extreme situation like a collapsed roof, severe storm, hail, extreme winds, or fire, then you may receive assistance to pay for the repairs of leaks caused by those situations, but it’s best to verify coverage with your provider since details can differ by company.

Home insurance usually won’t cover damage due to a lack of maintenance or issues arising from wear and tear. Therefore, if a roof leak is caused by damage due to age, insurance will most likely assist with repair costs.

Can Home Insurance Premiums Go Up if You File a Claim for a Roof Leak?

It depends. Your insurance company may look at you as a liability and increase your premiums. However, this depends on the insurance company and the policy itself. It’s best to reach out to your agent and discuss concerns related to claims and premium increases for more information.

How Can You Prevent Roof Leaks?

One of the least expensive ways to prevent roof leaks is to conduct regular inspections and maintenance. Roofs subjected to normal wear and tear usually leak after many years, not as a result of an accident. Every 1-2 years, examine the roof, chimney, and skylights to check for damage. Also, look for loose or missing shingles, cracked or curled shingles, curling or blistering paint, rust at the base of the chimney, and damage such as dents or holes in the flashing.

If you spot any problems, contact a roofing specialist for advice on how to correct them and prevent further damage. Unless it’s an emergency, don’t wait until winter or a rainstorm is approaching to do this work. Some home inspectors also offer periodic maintenance inspections that could help you avoid a more costly problem later on.

Roof leaks can cause a lot of damage to your home and are usually covered by home insurance. However, it’s always important to know the difference. Call Absolute Choice Insurance today so we can help you understand what your home insurance options are. Our experienced professionals can help you find the right coverage for your home!