Yes, you can file a claim, but whether it is approved depends entirely on what caused the leak. Homeowners insurance covers leaks caused by sudden, accidental damage (like a severe storm, hail, or a fallen tree). It does not cover leaks caused by wear and tear, age, or poor maintenance.
Steps to filling a roofing insurance claim
When speaking to a roof insurance adjuster, stick strictly to the facts and avoid offering guesses, apologies, or opinions about your roof's age or condition. Your words become part of the official record, and speculative or downplayed comments can be used by the insurance company to deny or lower your claim payout.
The "25% rule" is a building code and insurance guideline stating that if more than 25% of a roof's total surface area (or a single roof section) requires repair or replacement within a 12-month period, the entire roof must be torn off and upgraded to current building codes.
Homeowners insurance will pay for a leaky roof if the leak is sudden and caused by a covered peril (like a storm, hail, or a fallen tree). However, policies will not cover leaks caused by poor maintenance, general wear and tear, or an aging roof.
When talking to your home insurance company, stick strictly to the facts and avoid guessing. Speculating or making casual remarks can lead to claim denials or reduced payouts.
The cheapest time to get a new roof is during the late fall and winter months (November through February). Because demand drops significantly, contractors typically offer off-peak discounts or are much more willing to negotiate on labor to keep their crews working.
To tell if a roofer is lying, watch out for high-pressure sales, suspiciously low bids, and demands for large upfront cash payments. Honest roofers provide clear, detailed contracts and verifiable credentials. Always check their local license, avoid signing contingency agreements before fully committing, and get a second opinion.
GRACE ICE & WATER SHIELD® roofing membrane is used as an underlayment for sloped roofs to resist water penetration due to water back-up behind ice dams or wind-driven rain.
Roof insurance claims are usually denied because adjusters cite normal wear and tear, pre-existing damage, or inadequate maintenance rather than sudden storm damage. Insurers also frequently point to poor installation, specific policy exclusions, or procedural issues like missed filing deadlines and insufficient photographic documentation.
When speaking to an insurance claims adjuster, avoid admitting fault, speculating on unverified details, or giving a recorded statement without legal guidance. Never volunteer unnecessary personal or medical history, and always decline early, lowball settlement offers until the true extent of your damages is fully evaluated.
The insurance company that denies the most claims depends heavily on the type of insurance you are referring to:
In cases of severe damage where your home is at risk, contacting a roofer first may be the best course of action. The roofer can provide emergency services, such as covering holes to prevent further water damage, while you work on the insurance claim.
7 most common homeowners insurance claims
The "25% rule" in roofing is a building code regulation stating that if more than 25% of a roof's total surface area (or a specific "roof section") is repaired or replaced within a 12-month period, the entire roof must be torn off and upgraded to meet current building codes.
10-12 inches of fresh snow melts down to about 1 inch of water. Most roofs can support about 40-45 inches of fresh snow. Packed snow is much more dense than fresh snow or fluffy snow. Therefore, a roof can support about 20 inches of packed snow.
Fortunately, most reputable roofing contractors offer financing options that will suit your needs. Other options for paying for a new roof include a home equity loan, a home equity line of credit, a home improvement loan from your bank or if all else fails, a credit card to pay for the roof.
Never tell a contractor your exact budget, that you are "in no rush," or that you want to rely on a "handshake agreement". These phrases can result in inflated bids, indefinite project delays, and a lack of legal protection if issues arise.
A roof usually lasts between 20 and 30 years, depending heavily on the material, climate, and maintenance.
A 20-year-old roof is considered to be at or near the end of its typical lifespan, particularly for standard 3-tab asphalt shingles. While it may not be instantly failing, it is entering a high-risk zone for leaks, insurance issues, and needed replacement, making a professional inspection essential.
What damages the roof the most? Sun exposure, poor maintenance, and severe weather like hailstorms and strong winds do the most damage.
Roofing a 2,000-square-foot house typically takes 8 to 16 working hours (1 to 2 days) for a standard asphalt shingle replacement. However, exact times vary based on crew size, weather, roof complexity, and whether a tear-off of old shingles is required.