9 Signs That Your Roof Might be Covered by Your Homeowners Insurance
Roof damage poses a significant financial burden for most homeowners, often leaving them unable to afford the necessary repairs. However, there is a glimmer of hope. Homeowners insurance can provide coverage for various aspects of your home, including your roof. While the process may not be straightforward, understanding the signs and seeking assistance from an experienced third-party roofer with insurance expertise can make all the difference. In this post, we will explore the top 9 indications that your roof damage may be covered by your homeowners insurance and outline the necessary steps to take.
Important Notes:
- Not every type of damage is covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy and every policy is different. Make sure you read yours carefully.
- Insurance companies are sticklers for procedure so make sure you follow their procedures when filing a claim.
- Always work with a third-party roofing contractor to keep the insurance honest. Make sure they’re familiar with insurance claims so they can be your advocate.
- You don’t have to do it alone. A good contractor will help be the middleman with correspondence and inspections.
Missing Shingles:
Powerful winds, hurricanes, and storms possess enough force to tear shingles off your roof. When your roof begins to lose shingles, it creates a vulnerable entry point for water, which can lead to significant damage. Missing shingles serve as an initial sign of storm damage for professional roofers, and it is advisable to reach out to your home insurance company for assistance.
Brittle/Broken Shingles:
The sun’s powerful rays may cause your roof shingles to dry out and become brittle over time. When this happens, they are easily broken by wind or hail and can lead to potentially costly water damage. If you notice that some of your shingles are brittle or broken, it is a sign that you should reach out to your insurance company for assistance.
Gutter Issues:
Though damage caused by lack of maintenance are not covered, hail dents or wind damage to your gutters may be covered.
Fallen Tree:
It may seem obvious, but if you encounter any problems with a tree, it often indicates damage to your roof. It’s not just large trees that can cause issues; even small branches falling can result in shingle damage, compromised gutters, and leaks.
Impact Marks on Roof:
Severe storms can result in substantial roof damage from hail and debris. If you notice small dents, cracks, or tears on the shingles, it’s likely an indication of impact. However, the true concern lies in the potential moisture penetration into both your roof and home structure.
Leak After Heavy Storm:
Roof leaks are an unmistakable indicator of damage and can create a breeding ground for mold. If you suspect a leak in your roof, be on the lookout for visible signs of water damage, such as damp spots on the ceiling or walls, musty odors, or discoloration. It’s important to note that a leak suggests a failure or damage to various protective systems in your roof, which could potentially be covered by your home insurance. Alternatively, if the installation was done poorly, leaks may provide an opportunity to address repairs more thoroughly and properly.
Light in Attic:
If you can see light coming through the roof in your attic, it’s a possible sign of damage. This indicates that water is likely making its way into your home during rain or snowstorms. It could also suggest that there are gaps in the insulation or ventilation that need to be addressed. Some light may be expected though due to the necessary gaps in ventilation that allow your attic to breath.
Leak After Heavy Storm:
Roof leaks are an unmistakable indicator of damage and can create a breeding ground for mold. If you suspect a leak in your roof, be on the lookout for visible signs of water damage, such as damp spots on the ceiling or walls, musty odors, or discoloration. It’s important to note that a leak suggests a failure or damage to various protective systems in your roof, which could potentially be covered by your home insurance. Alternatively, if the installation was done poorly, leaks may provide an opportunity to address repairs more thoroughly and properly.
Ice Dams:
Ice dams are accumulations of snow and ice at the edge of your roof. As temperatures fluctuate, they melt and re-freeze in a cycle, slowly eroding the shingles. The damage can eventually lead to water infiltration if not addressed quickly enough.
Leak After Heavy Storm:
Roof leaks are an unmistakable indicator of damage and can create a breeding ground for mold. If you suspect a leak in your roof, be on the lookout for visible signs of water damage, such as damp spots on the ceiling or walls, musty odors, or discoloration. It’s important to note that a leak suggests a failure or damage to various protective systems in your roof, which could potentially be covered by your home insurance. Alternatively, if the installation was done poorly, leaks may provide an opportunity to address repairs more thoroughly and properly.
Granule Loss on Shingles:
Granules, small stone or ceramic pieces, are embedded in asphalt shingle surfaces to protect against the elements. If you notice a significant accumulation of these granules near your downspouts, it likely indicates wear and tear on your roof. When a shingle loses its granulation, it signifies that the shingle is no longer effective and needs replacement. This is often accompanied by broken or missing shingles, making it a sign to involve home insurance.
What’s Next? The Importance of Working With a Professional and not just your homeowners insurance.
If you suspect any type of roof damage, it is essential to have an experienced contractor assess the situation. A qualified professional can help you determine whether your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover the damage and guide you through the claims process. They can also provide valuable insight into proper installation and maintenance techniques to reduce future damage occurrences.
Further, a good contractor will provide an estimate of the cost to repair or replace the roof in comparison to how much coverage is provided by your insurance policy. This will help you determine whether it’s worth pursuing a claim and can potentially save you time and money. Keep in mind that although filing a claim may seem intimidating, understanding the signs of roof damage and working with a trusted partner can make all the difference.
Finally, it’s important to note that the roofing contractor you choose should have experience in working with insurance companies and be familiar with the process of filing a claim. Working with a professional who can ensure your rights are being respected will help you maximize your coverage and minimize any out-of-pocket expenses. Filing an insurance claim can be a tedious process, but with an experienced roofer on your side, you can rest assured that the job will be done right.
