Roofing and Insurance: What's Covered?

Home insurance can provide a valuable safety net in case your roof incurs damage. However, understanding what's covered under your policy can often be confusing. This guide will help you gain a better understanding of how insurance typically applies to roofing.

1. Covered Perils

Home insurance typically covers your roof if it's damaged by a peril listed in your policy. Common covered perils often include fire, vandalism, and certain types of weather-related damage, such as windstorms, hail, and lightning.

2. Age and Maintenance of the Roof

The age and maintenance of your roof can significantly impact your insurance coverage. If your roof is older or hasn't been properly maintained, your insurance company may argue that damage was due to wear and tear, which is typically not covered. Regular roof inspections and maintenance can help ensure that your roof is in good shape and any damage is more likely to be covered.

3. Depreciation and Actual Cash Value

Some insurance policies account for the depreciation of your roof, meaning they'll only pay out the actual cash value of your roof at the time of the damage. This value takes into account the age and condition of the roof, meaning you may not receive enough to cover the full cost of a new roof.

4. Replacement Cost Value

Other policies offer replacement cost value coverage, which will cover the cost to replace your roof with a new one of similar type and quality, irrespective of depreciation. Policies with this type of coverage are often more expensive but can provide better financial protection if your roof is damaged.

5. Deductibles

Your policy will likely have a deductible, which is the amount you'll have to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. It's important to know your deductible amount and plan for it in case of a roofing claim.

6. Exclusions

Not all types of damage will be covered by your insurance. For instance, damage due to neglect or lack of maintenance is typically excluded. Additionally, some policies may exclude or limit coverage for certain types of perils, like wind or hail. Always review your policy's exclusions carefully.

7. Claim Process

If your roof is damaged, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the claim. They'll typically send an adjuster to inspect the damage and determine how much the company will pay for repairs or replacement.

Understanding your insurance coverage when it comes to roofing is essential in ensuring your roof is properly protected. If you have questions about your coverage, it's best to discuss them with your insurance agent or a knowledgeable roofing contractor.

At Altru Roofing, we understand the complexities of both roofing and insurance claims. We're happy to work with you and your insurance company to make the process as smooth as possible. If your roof has suffered damage, don't hesitate to contact us for an inspection and assistance with your insurance claim.