If you’ve ever had a roof leak, you know that it can be a real pain to fix. Not only is the repair process messy and inconvenient, but it can also be expensive. So, the question on many people’s minds is this: does homeowners insurance cover roof leak repairs? That’s why Madison Roofing would like to answer that question and give you some helpful tips on what to do if your roof starts leaking. Continue reading to learn more.
What is Homeowners Insurance?
Homeowners insurance is a type of property insurance that covers your home and belongings in the event of damage or theft. It can also provide liability coverage if someone is injured on your property.
There are two main types of homeowners insurance: HO-0 policies, which are the most basic and only cover damages from fire, smoke, and lightning; and HO-A policies, which are more comprehensive and cover a wider range of perils, including windstorms, hail, explosions, and vandalism.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies have a deductible, which is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before your insurer will start covering the costs of repairs. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your roof needs $800 worth of repairs, you will have to pay the first $500, and your insurer will cover the remaining $300.
It’s important to note that not all homeowner’s insurance policies are created equal. Some policies will cover roof leaks, and some won’t. That’s why it’s important to read your policy carefully and ensure you understand what is and is not covered.
When is a Roof Repair Covered by Insurance?
In general, homeowners insurance only covers roof repairs if the damage is caused by a “covered peril.” Covered perils typically include events like fire, wind, hail, lightning, and snow. If your roof is damaged by one of these perils and you have an HO-A policy, then your insurance should cover the cost of repairs (minus your deductible).
However, if your roof is damaged by something that is not a covered peril – such as wear and tear or poor maintenance – then your insurance will most likely not cover the cost of repairs. That’s why it’s so important to keep up with regular home maintenance and fix any problems as soon as they arise.
When is a Roof Repair Not Covered by Insurance?
There are a few instances when a roof repair may not be covered by insurance, even if the damage is caused by a covered peril. For example, if you have an HO-0 policy, then your insurer will only cover damages from fire, smoke, and lightning. So, if your roof is damaged by wind or hail, your insurer will not cover the cost of repairs.
Additionally, most homeowners’ insurance policies have limits on how much they will pay out for repairs. So, even if your roof damage is caused by a covered peril, your insurer may only pay up to a certain amount.
Finally, as we mentioned earlier, roofs are also susceptible to damage from poor maintenance and wear and tear. If your roof is damaged by one of these things, your insurance will most likely not cover the cost of repairs.
What Should You Do If Your Roof Starts Leaking?
If you have a roof leak, the first thing you should do is try to identify the source of the leak and contact a roofing company in Boise for help. Also, if you see any discoloration or bulging, then you should call a professional right away to have them take a look.
Need Help Repairing a Roof Leak?
If you need help repairing a roof leak, the experts at Madison Roofing are here to help. We specialize in roof repairs and can help you get your roof back in top condition. Contact us today by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 344-5379 to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.
