What Is Covered vs. Not Covered
- Covered: Hail damage, wind damage, damage from falling trees or branches, fire damage, lightning damage, sudden ice and snow load damage (in many policies).
- Not covered: Normal wear and aging, gradual deterioration, maintenance neglect, damage from poor installation, mold from long-standing leaks, and most flood damage (flood requires separate flood insurance).
- Gray area: Ice dams (coverage varies by policy and insurer), cosmetic damage without functional impact (some policies exclude this), and matching (replacing one slope may not match the rest).
Related: Homeowners Insurance and Roof Damage
The Claim Process
- Document damage immediately with photos and video
- Call your insurer to open a claim and get a claim number
- Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage -- keep receipts
- Get a professional roofer to inspect and document damage separately from the adjuster
- Be present when the adjuster visits -- your roofer's documentation helps ensure nothing is missed
- Review the adjuster's estimate carefully; dispute items you believe were missed or undervalued
Related: Roof Damage Insurance Claim Guide
ACV vs. RCV Coverage and Why It Matters
Check your policy: is your roof covered at replacement cost value (RCV) or actual cash value (ACV)? ACV policies deduct depreciation based on the roof's age. On an old roof, ACV payouts can be dramatically lower than the actual replacement cost. RCV policies cost more in premium but pay the full replacement cost (minus deductible). If your current policy is ACV and your roof is aging, consider whether an upgrade is worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of roof damage does homeowners insurance cover?
Standard homeowners insurance (HO-3 policy) covers sudden and accidental damage from covered perils -- typically hail, wind, falling trees or objects, fire, and lightning. Damage caused by these events is covered subject to your deductible and policy limits. Gradual deterioration, maintenance failures, and age-related wear are excluded under standard policies.
Will insurance cover a full replacement or just repairs?
Depends on your policy type and the extent of damage. Replacement cost value (RCV) policies cover the cost to replace with a comparable new roof. Actual cash value (ACV) policies deduct depreciation -- the older your roof, the less you receive. On a 20-year-old roof with ACV coverage, your payout may be 20-40% of the replacement cost after depreciation. See: Actual Cash Value vs Replacement Cost.
What should I do immediately after storm damage to my roof?
Document everything with photos and video before any cleanup. Call your insurance company promptly -- most policies require timely reporting of claims. Do not make permanent repairs before the adjuster inspects, but do make temporary repairs to prevent further damage (tarps, etc.) and document those as well. Get a professional roofer's assessment alongside the insurance adjuster's visit.
Find Help in Your City
Insurance coverage varies significantly by policy, insurer, and state. Review your specific policy or consult with your insurance agent for coverage details. This page is for general informational purposes only.