Are you in need of a new roof, and wondering how you’re going to pay for it? For many residents in the United States that count with homeowner’s insurance, there’s a good chance that coverage can cover part or all the cost of repairs or replacement—although that will depend on various factors unique to your claim. Some of these might include the area you live in, your insurance plan, the age and condition of your roof, and other important considerations. The best way to learn whether your roof replacement is covered or not is to contact your provider for information regarding the specific details of your insurance plan. 

At Universal Builders, our Columbus roofers count with decades of experience helping homeowners find financing options to cover the cost of repairs or a brand-new roof replacement. We’re dedicated to helping our customers sort through their claims during the process of filing for roof replacement and repair coverage. In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common conditions where homeowners do receive coverage for their roof services—and when coverage is not likely to be an option. 

Will Insurance Cover My New Roof? 

In general, most policies will cover roof repairs and replacements when the damage to the roof is caused by situations beyond the homeowner’s control. Fires, hurricanes, hail storms, strong winds, and rain can all be causes for damage to your roof, and these unpreventable disasters will likely result in total or partial reimbursement for your expenses for a new roof or repairs. Vandalism can be another cause for coverage by your homeowner’s insurance company. 

In most cases, the entire exterior of your home—such as your gutter system, gutter guards, siding installation, windows, and doors will also be covered under the same policy as your roof. As we mentioned earlier, the amount of coverage, deductible, and exclusions will depend on your insurance company. Whether your claim is covered or denied, given partial or total coverage will depend on a variety of factors, including: 

• The Age of Your Home: A roof that is under ten years old might qualify for the full coverage amount of replacement or repairs. Homes with rooftops that are over ten years old may not qualify for full coverage, but instead might be reimbursed for a partial amount according to the age of the roof—which takes into account the natural wear and tear of depreciating roof constructions. 
• Roof Condition: If your roof is poorly maintained with plenty of wear and tear, you might have a problem convincing your homeowner’s insurance company to cover the damage. Damage to a strong, well-maintained rooftop won’t be as severe as damage to a weak roof that’s falling apart. 
• Water Damage: It is the homeowner’s responsibility to prevent leaks and floods with well-maintained gutters, gutter guards, and other installations. If the damage to your roof is caused by water leaking out from overflowing gutters or poor drainage systems, you might not be approved for coverage after inspection. 

Increase Your Chances for Coverage 

There are many ways to improve your chances for coverage in case of damage to your roof, including regular and expert maintenance to your property to prevent issues. Fix small problems before they become larger ones, such as tile replacements, leak prevention, and repairs, and groom large trees surrounding your property to prevent them from falling on top of your roof. 

Some other ways to help your case include taking plenty of photos of your home’s exterior after providing maintenance or repairs, to show your claims adjuster your efforts to keep up your property. Also, keep documents showing any professional repairs or maintenance services you contract, as well as photos and estimates of the damage after meeting with a roofing company. 

Filing a Claim 

When you’re in need of repairs or a roof replacement after experiencing damage to your home construction, it’s important to take plenty of photographs of the damage right away. Contact a reputable, professional roofing company to perform an inspection, and call your insurance company immediately to begin filing a claim. 

An experienced contractor will help you by providing an estimate for the damage that you’ll be able to submit to an insurance company. If your roof is beyond repair and in need of replacement, it’s likely that your insurance company will recommend a company to you or will send out an approved contractor to survey the damage. 

If you’ve experienced damage to your home and are struggling to make sense of the process, our experts at Universal Builders can help. Since 2005, we’ve committed ourselves to provide top-quality services and exceptional value for our customers in Columbus and the surrounding areas, and we’d love to help you recover your home after damage to your roof or exterior construction. 

For more information on insurance coverage for roof repairs, roof replacement, and other exterior remodeling services, give us a call to speak with an agent at Universal Builders. Or, to receive a free, in-home estimate and free inspection, fill out our online form to be connected with our Columbus roofers now.