Does Home Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?
It depends on the situation. If the damage to your home’s roof is caused by a covered loss, like the weight of snow or ice, your
seguro de viviendas policy will typically help cover costs. However, if the roof leak is caused by general wear and tear or poor maintenance, your insurance company likely won’t cover the damages.
The AARP
® Homeowners Insurance Program from The Hartford
1 can help protect your home and belongings from the unexpected. To learn more about the coverages and savings available to you, call
877-422-2345 o
obtener una cotización en línea.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?
Roof leaks are typically covered by homeowners insurance when they are caused by a covered peril that is sudden and accidental. For example, your
homeowners insurance coverage through the AARP Homeowners Insurance Program from The Hartford covers damage from events like:
- Windstorms
- Hail
- Falling objects
- Weight of ice, snow or sleet
After a covered loss occurs, your insurance company will assess the damage to your roof and help cover any repair or replacement costs.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Replacement?
If your roof gets damaged by a covered peril, your insurance company can help pay for a roof replacement if it’s needed. To pay the claim, your insurer will first pay the Actual Cash Value (ACV) for your damaged roof, minus your deductible. If you have replacement cost coverage on your policy, your insurance company will pay that additional amount after you’ve repaired or replaced your roof. The difference between your ACV and replacement cost is known as
recoverable depreciation, which you are able to recover once you provide proof that repairs have been completed.
It's important to review your homeowners insurance policy to make sure you have enough coverage. If you have questions about your coverage, you can call The Hartford’s specialists at
800-423-0567.
When Does Homeowner Insurance Not Cover Roof Leaks?
Your homeowners insurance policy won’t cover roof leaks in certain weather-related scenarios. For example, specifically excluded events from homeowners insurance coverage include damage from:
- Inundaciones
- Terremotos
- Landslides or mudslides
To be covered in these situations, you’ll need to purchase separate insurance policies, like earthquake or
seguro contra inundaciones.
Your homeowners insurance policy also likely won’t help cover costs to repair or replace your roof if it’s damaged by:
- Lack of maintenance
- Uso y desgaste normal
- Insect infestation
- Pet damage
- Smog, rust or corrosion
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage From a Leaking Roof?
If your roof begins leaking after it’s damaged by a covered loss, your
cobertura de vivienda can help pay for damages to your home and its attached structures. If the leaking roof damages your personal belongings,
personal property insurance can help cover the costs to repair or replace your items.
What to Do When You Find a Roof Leak
Identifying a roof leak as early as possible can help mitigate water damage to your home. If you notice your roof is leaking, you can use a bucket to catch any extra water or add a tarp to your roof to help prevent further damage. Then, document the damage with photos.
When to File a Claim With Your Homeowners Insurance for a Roof Leak
The cost to fix your roof can be affected by different factors, like the extent of the damage, your roof’s construction materials and more. To help pay for roof repair or replacement costs, you may consider
filing a claim with your home insurance company. Standard homeowners insurance can help cover damages if they result from covered events.
Before you file a claim, you may consider your insurance deductible. Your deductible is the amount you pay before your insurer covers a claim. If the estimated cost to repair your roof is less than your deductible, you may consider paying for the repairs out of pocket. However, if the repair cost is higher than your deductible, you may consider filing a claim to help pay for the expenses.
The Hartford makes it easy for customers to
file a claim. Our specialists are available 24/7 at
877-805-9918 to answer any questions and assist you through the claims process.
How to Prevent Roof Leaks
Some ways you can help reduce the likelihood of roof leaks include:
- Having your roof regularly inspected
- Trimming trees around your home
- Clearing your gutters
- Checking your attic for signs of leaks
Even if the unexpected happens, The Hartford will be there when you need us most. Through the AARP Homeowners Insurance Program from The Hartford, you can get the peace of mind you deserve knowing your home is protected.
Reciba una cotización today to learn more.
Última actualización: 23 de junio de 2023
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