Roofing is one of the more difficult repairs to do for your home, and that doesn't just cover the materials, either. The truth is that it's a tedious job, which is why the cost of repairs is so high. Sadly, roofing isn't immortal and that means that you will eventually run into problems once in a while. When this happens, it could be due to wear and tear. It also could be a result of a sudden accident---like a tree branch falling on your home. Regardless of the cause of the roofing problem, it's often a sign that you need to call your insurer. But does homeowners insurance cover roof replacement all the time, or is it just for major storms? As it turns out, roof replacement isn't that clean-cut, and you might need to know a little more before you pick up the phone for a claim...
Will Homeowners Insurance Cover a Roof Replacement?
Honestly, this tends to hinge on two major factors: the cause of the damage and the age of the roof. If your roof is damaged as a result of wear and tear, they will not cover the damage. The same can be said about roofing that's damaged as a result of foolish behavior or actual intentional harm. Moreover, many companies will not cover roof damage on roofing that is over 15 to 20 years of age. Unless you can get a professional inspection that certifies that your roof is in good condition, getting coverage won't happen. As long as your roof was in good condition and was damaged by means outside of your control, you have a shot at getting coverage. To max your chances out, make sure to get a plan that covers wind, hail, and ice, too!
How To Get Insurance To Pay for Roof Replacement
If you have a problem that requires a full roof replacement, then you are going to have to file a claim with your insurance company. Most insurers will only work with issues that involve serious damage, at least when it comes to full replacements. If you want to file a claim, it's best to do so as soon as you notice the damage. (For example, if your roof got serious damage as a result of a hurricane, you should call as soon as it is safe to do so.) Then, you will have to take photos and send them to your agent. Your agent may also ask questions about the roof, or even ask to see the roof in person. Most of the time, following their instructions will help you get the payout that you need.
Do You Need To Update Your Roof?
It's important to remember that your home insurance company is not going to bankroll a roof replacement required as a result of wear and tear. Replacing an old roof is just plain maintenance. This is considered to be a basic part of homeownership, and that means you are going to be required to foot the bill. How hard they will press you to update your roof depends on the company's stance on old roofs. Some home insurance companies won't even bother with a policy for a home with a roof over 20 years of age. Most, though, will allow you to get coverage as long as your old roof has been certified as being in good shape. If you cannot afford a new roof for your home, then you might find yourself in a Catch-22. Don't worry, though. There are ways to finance a roof, thereby giving yourself a shot at the coverage you truly need.