Can Home Insurance Pay for a New Roof?

If your roof is damaged or deteriorating, it can cause leaks in other parts of your house. Such leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth and even fire hazards if water comes into contact with your electrical systems. Getting your roof fixed quickly can stop small leaks from becoming big problems, but home repairs can be expensive. Read on to learn when your homeowners insurance can pay for damage to your roof.  

At ACF Insurance Services, we understand the importance of protecting your home from damage. Contact us today for more homeowners insurance solutions and to speak to an insurance agent.

Does Homeowners Insurance Pay for Roof Repairs? 

Typically, your roof will be covered under the dwelling coverage portion of your homeowners insurance policy, which pays for repairs or replacements to structural elements of your home. Your dwelling coverage can protect your roof from damage due to covered perils, which may include the following: 

• A falling tree 
• Hail or rain 
• A snowstorm 
• A fire  

Roof damage that occurs as a result of normal wear and tear, old age, lack of maintenance or similar causes are not usually covered under a home insurance policy.  

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cost Coverage 

When you purchased your homeowners insurance policy, you were likely given a choice between replacement cost coverage and actual cost coverage. If your roof is damaged due to a covered peril, the type of insurance you chose will affect the payout you receive for your claim. 

• Actual cost coverage will reimburse you for the estimated value of your destroyed property minus depreciation. This may not be enough to pay for a brand-new roof if your existing one is destroyed. 
• Replacement cost coverage pays to replace your property with a new, similar version. Keep in mind that your insurance company will typically not pay for roof upgrades (e.g., replacing a wood roof with metal) if your existing roof is damaged or destroyed. 

Call ACF Insurance Services to ensure your home has sufficient protection. 

Protecting Your Roof 

Prevention is key to avoiding costly homeowners insurance claims. Consider these tips for keeping your roof in good condition: 

• Prune nearby trees. 
• Keep gutters clean. 
• Get regular inspections. 
• Check your roof for damage after heavy rain or snow. 

Finding the Right Coverage 

We’re here to help. Contact ACF Insurance Services today to learn how our homeowners insurance coverage options could be right for you.  

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.