Have you ever encountered staring blankly at the ceiling, and then you noticed a visible spot in it? If you’ve seen that terrible brown spot on your ceiling, there is a good chance that you have a roof leak damage in your property. Roof leak damage can be nasty and expensive to fix, depending on the origin of the leak. If you’re wondering if your homeowner’s insurance would cover roof leaks and the damage that might occur as a consequence, we will help you clarify the procedure and help you decide whether to file a roof leak damage claim. One thing insurance companies have in common is that all of them are cautious and wary of insurance fraud and scams. The tactics that some fraudsters use to get a brand-new roof courtesy of insurance companies is shocking. But, insurance companies know better. They’ve created plenty of safeguards to ensure that they only pay out valid claims. So once you have spotted signs of a roof leak damage immediately get in touch with an experienced public adjuster so they can help you make sure you get the right insurance claim.
Causes of Roof Leaks Insurance Companies Will Cover
When talking about the most common homeowner’s insurance claims, roof leak damage is high up on the list. Unfortunately, not all claims are valid or paid out.
Below is a list of perils covered by most homeowners’ insurance policies:
- Hail and windstorms
- Damage due to electrical surge
- Weight of snow or ice
- Damage due to sudden discharge of water or steam
- Lightning strike
- Vandalism
- Theft
- Damage from riots
Even if homeowners insurance covers your roof repair or a full roof replacement, you may have to pay a deductible, which is an amount you’re required to pay out of pocket before your insurance company will pitch in. Furthermore, the insurance company will not reimburse the repair cost if the cause of roof leak damage is from natural wear and tear or lack of maintenance on your part.
Causes of Roof Leaks Most Insurance Companies Won’t Cover
It is pretty common for roofs to deteriorate and develop cracks and leaks as they age. Most insurance companies exclude the general wear and tear of the roofs in their coverage.
Aside from that, some other perils or hazards may be excluded from your homeowner’’ insurance policy.
Here are a few of the perils that your insurance company may exclude from your policy:
- Infestation of insects and animals
- Landslides/mudslides
- Floods
- Smog
- Rust and Corrosion
- Government action
Homeowners may unwittingly ignore their roof for many years, expecting that their insurance provider would repair any damage without inquiry. However, this is not how insurance works. Because it is the duty of the homeowner to maintain and care for their roof and house, most insurance companies do not cover roof leak damage caused by inappropriate ownership or a lack of maintenance. Similarly, homeowners should be aware that not all homeowner’s insurance plans cover roof leak damage caused by floods or earthquakes. You may always add flood and earthquake insurance to your plans, but if you haven’t previously, these hazards may be excluded.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage From a Roof Leak?
Finding the cause of the leak in your roof is not an easy process. However, as soon as you notice that dreaded brown patch on your ceiling, you must explore the source and get in touch with an experienced public adjuster and they will guide you for the next steps to take. In the meantime, attempt to recall the events that caused the breach. If there is high winds or snow, for example, make sure you chronicle the incidents and dates. This will make it easy for an experienced public adjuster to submit the claim to your insurance provider.
You may inspect the roof from the ground, looking for missing shingles or other evident concerns. You may also inspect the interior of your home via the ceiling or attic for black spots, mildew, or water stains. A standard homeowners’ insurance policy will cover the expense of water damage as long as the source of the leak fits within the policy’s hazards. In light of this, a professional roof inspection should be performed every few years to examine the state of your roof. Minor repairs and normal maintenance, such as gutter cleaning, are also required to prevent major problems from happening.
