A damaged or aging roof can be a major concern for homeowners, especially when replacement costs can run into thousands of dollars. Many homeowners ask, “Can I claim for a new roof on house insurance?” The answer depends on several factors, including the cause of damage, your insurance policy coverage, and the age of your roof.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain when and how you can file a roof insurance claim, what insurance typically covers, and steps to maximize your chances of approval..
Read too: Hail Damage Roof Repair: Essential Guide to Restoring Your Home’s Protection
Understanding Roof Insurance Coverage
Before filing a claim, it’s important to understand how homeowners insurance policies handle roof damage. Not all roof issues qualify for coverage, and knowing the specifics can save you time and frustration.
1. Types of Roof Damage Covered by Insurance
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage caused by:
- Storms and Wind Damage – High winds can tear shingles off the roof or cause tree branches to fall, damaging the structure.
- Hail Damage – Hail can dent or crack roofing materials, leading to leaks and long-term issues.
- Fire Damage – If a fire damages your roof, insurance will typically cover repair or replacement.
- Falling Objects – If a tree or other debris falls onto your roof, your policy may cover repairs.
2. Roof Damage NOT Covered by Insurance
Insurance companies will not pay for a new roof due to:
- Normal Wear and Tear – Roofs naturally degrade over time, and homeowners are responsible for maintenance and replacement.
- Neglect and Poor Maintenance – If your roof has been ignored and develops leaks due to negligence, insurers may deny your claim.
- Improper Installation – If the roof was poorly installed or used defective materials, you may not receive coverage.
3. Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV) Coverage
The type of insurance coverage you have will affect how much you receive:
- Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Covers the full cost of a new roof without considering depreciation.
- Actual Cash Value (ACV): Covers only the depreciated value of your roof, meaning you may receive much less than the actual replacement cost.
If your roof is over 20 years old, most insurance companies will offer only ACV coverage, which means you’ll have to pay a significant portion out of pocket.
Can I Claim For A New Roof On House Insurance? Step-by-Step Process
If you believe your roof damage qualifies for insurance coverage, follow these steps to file a successful claim.
1. Assess the Damage
Before contacting your insurer, inspect your roof for visible damage. Look for:
- Missing or broken shingles
- Leaks or water stains inside your home
- Hail dents or cracks
- Fallen debris on the roof
If it’s safe, take clear photos and videos of the damage as proof for your claim.
2. Review Your Insurance Policy
Check your homeowners insurance policy to determine:
- What types of roof damage are covered
- Whether you have ACV or RCV coverage
- Your deductible amount
If you’re unsure about your coverage, contact your insurance agent for clarification.
3. Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Hire a licensed roofing contractor to inspect the damage and provide a detailed report. Most insurance companies require professional documentation before approving a claim.
A contractor’s report should include:
- The cause of the damage (storm, hail, wind, etc.)
- Estimated cost of repairs or replacement
- Photos of damaged areas
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you have documentation, call your insurer to start the claims process. Provide:
- Your policy number
- Photos and videos of the damage
- The contractor’s inspection report
Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to inspect the roof and determine if your claim is valid.
5. Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
The insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the damage in person. To increase approval chances:
- Be present during the inspection
- Provide your contractor’s report as additional evidence
- Ask the adjuster about the next steps in the process
6. Review the Insurance Company’s Offer
After evaluating the damage, your insurer will either approve or deny your claim. If approved, they will provide a payout based on your coverage type (ACV or RCV).
If the payout is lower than expected, you can:
- Request a re-evaluation and submit additional evidence
- Hire a public adjuster to advocate on your behalf
- Dispute the decision if you believe the damage should be covered
7. Hire a Roofing Contractor and Begin Repairs
Once you receive your insurance payout, hire a reputable roofing company to complete the replacement. Ensure the contractor follows all necessary building codes and obtains permits if required.
How to Increase Your Chances of a Successful Roof Insurance Claim
Insurance companies are not always eager to pay for roof replacements. Use these strategies to maximize your approval chances:
1. Keep Up with Regular Roof Maintenance
Insurers will deny claims if they believe neglect or lack of maintenance contributed to the damage. To avoid this:
- Inspect your roof regularly for signs of wear
- Clean gutters and remove debris to prevent water damage
- Fix minor issues before they turn into major problems
2. Document Your Roof’s Condition Over Time
Before disaster strikes, keep a record of your roof’s condition by taking yearly photos. This helps prove to your insurance company that the damage was caused by a specific event, not neglect.
3. Act Fast After Damage Occurs
Most insurance policies require claims to be filed within a certain timeframe after the damage occurs. Delaying your claim could result in a denial.
4. Get Multiple Contractor Estimates
Having multiple roofing estimates can help you negotiate a fair payout with your insurer. Some insurance companies may try to undervalue the claim, so having a second opinion can help.
What If My Roof Claim Is Denied?
If your insurance company denies your claim, don’t give up. Here’s what you can do:
- Request a written explanation of why your claim was denied.
- Provide additional evidence, such as weather reports proving the storm damage.
- Hire a public adjuster to negotiate with the insurance company.
- File an appeal if you believe the denial was unfair.
If necessary, you can seek legal assistance to fight an unjust denial.
Final Thoughts: Is a New Roof Covered by Insurance?
So, can I claim for a new roof on house insurance? Yes—but only under certain conditions. Insurance typically covers sudden damage from storms, hail, and fire, but not general wear and tear.
To improve your chances of approval, follow these steps:
✅ Document all damage with photos
✅ Get a professional roof inspection
✅ Review your insurance policy
✅ Work with a reputable contractor
✅ Act quickly and file your claim as soon as possible
By staying informed and proactive, you can increase the likelihood of getting your roof replacement covered by insurance.
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