Are Roof Repairs Covered By Homeowners Insurance?
Does Your Homeowner Insurance
Cover Roof Repairs?
Houston Roofing & Construction Will Help You Understand
Homeowners insurance isn’t just there for when something goes wrong – it’s also there to protect you against any potential damages that may happen in the future. But when it comes to residential roof repairs in The Woodlands, do you know what your insurance will and won’t cover?
Typically, coverage will depend on whether the damage is due to normal wear-and-tear or was caused by an event covered by the policy. Hail storms, windstorms, lightning strikes, trees falling on the roof, burglaries, and vandalism could all be covered. However, if the damage was due to normal wear and tear or lack of maintenance, it may not be covered.
It’s also important to consider your deductible when filing a claim for roof repairs. The deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if your deductible is $1,000 and the cost of the repairs is $5,000, you will pay the $1,000 and your insurance will cover the remaining $4,000.
It’s important to review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what your deductible is before filing a claim for roof repairs.
How Do Residential Roof Repairs Differ From Roof
Maintenance?
Maintenance is the regular upkeep that’s required to keep you safe, secure, and functional for years to come. This can include cleaning out debris from gutters, checking for loose shingles or tiles, inspecting flashing around pipes and gable vents, applying sealant around openings and edges, etc. Roof maintenance is a homeowner’s responsibility. It’s similar to making sure you get your oil changed on a regular schedule.
On the other hand, repairs are done when damage has been caused by an unexpected event, such as a storm or accidental impact. In this case, the damage requires immediate attention from a roofing professional. This could include replacing broken shingles, fixing loose shingles, repairing holes in the roof, replacing gutters and downspouts, etc.
How To Know If A Roof Repair Will Be Covered
By Homeowners Insurance
When it comes to assessing whether a roof repair will be covered by homeowners insurance, there are some factors you should consider. They include:
Type Of Damage
Generally, natural disasters such as storms or hurricanes are more likely to be covered than regular wear and tear caused by aging, poor installation, or neglected maintenance.
Age Of The Roof
Most insurers only cover roofs under 15 years old – meaning that older roofs may not be eligible for coverage. Therefore, understand what types of coverage you have before filing a claim.
Extent Of Damage
Insurers might cover minor repairs (which may be less than your deductible) but deny any claim if the damage is too extensive. In such cases, a roof replacement may be the better option, mainly if the damage affects more than 25-30 percent of the roof.
Pre-Existing Conditions
In some cases, pre-existing conditions (such as cracks in shingles) can prevent insurers from completely covering all costs associated with a residential roofing repair. Document the condition of your roof before filing a claim.
Professional Roofing Inspections Can Save The Day
An experienced residential roof repair company can provide an accurate assessment of the condition of your roof, help you determine if a claim is necessary, whether your roof is repairable or needs a replacement, and recommend the best long-term solution based on your needs.
You may save money by getting a roof inspection before filing a claim. If the inspector finds the damage is due to normal wear and tear, you’ll likely have to pay for the repair out of pocket. In addition, you may have filed an illegitimate claim.
A Trusted Roofing Contractor Can Handle Your
Insurance Claims
Professionals take the utmost care to ensure your roof is repaired to the highest standards. They are experienced in handling insurance claims and can help you get the most out of your coverage.
In 2019, lawmakers in Texas implemented a law to protect homeowners from falling victim to expensive scams. It became illegal for roofing companies to waive insurance deductibles or promise any form of a rebate on these costs—even if a storm caused damage to the roof.
To commit this type of fraud, creating separate invoices for the insurance provider and the homeowner is strictly prohibited-leading to legal punishments should anyone be caught complicit in this practice.
Make sure you trust your residential roof repair contractor in Montgomery County; find someone who can help you navigate the complexities of filing an insurance claim, and they shouldn’t ask you to pay more than your deductible.
Houston Roofing & Construction Offers Residential Roof
Repair Services In The Woodlands, TX
As a BBB A+ rated and GAF Master Elite-certified roofing company in The Woodlands, we are experienced in handling residential roof leak repairs and replacements. Our clients always get the most out of their insurance coverage, and we never suggest fraudulent practices.
Our RCAT-licensed project managers will help you get the most out of your coverage and handle any insurance disputes promptly. Contact Houston Roofing and Construction at (832) 237-3737 to schedule a free consultation and get your roof back in shape as soon as possible.