Homeowners often ask, “Will insurance cover roof damage?” The answer depends on several factors, including the cause of the damage, your policy details, and the age of your roof. Insurance providers assess roof claims carefully to determine whether the damage was sudden and accidental or due to wear and tear.
In places like Fort Lauderdale, where heavy rain, strong winds, and hurricanes are common, roof damage is a frequent concern. Knowing what your insurance covers—and what it doesn’t—can save you from unexpected expenses. Below, we’ll break down how insurance companies handle roof damage claims and what steps homeowners should take.
What Types of Roof Damage Does Insurance Cover?
1. Storm Damage (Wind, Hail, and Hurricanes)
Most home insurance policies cover storm-related roof damage caused by:
- High winds tearing off shingles or flashing
- Hail damage leaving dents or cracks in roofing materials
- Flying debris breaking tiles or puncturing flat roofs
In Fort Lauderdale, hurricane-related roof damage is also covered under most policies, but many homeowners have a separate hurricane deductible that applies before coverage kicks in.
2. Fire and Smoke Damage
If a fire damages your roof, your homeowners’ insurance should cover the repair or replacement costs. This includes damage from lightning strikes, which can cause fires or structural weakening.
3. Falling Trees or Branches
If a tree or heavy branch falls on your roof due to a storm, insurance usually covers removal of debris and roof repairs. However, if the tree was dead or improperly maintained, the claim may be denied.
4. Vandalism and Accidental Damage
If your roof is damaged due to vandalism or an accident, such as a contractor’s mistake during unrelated work, your insurance will typically pay for the necessary repairs.
For more details on what homeowners’ insurance covers, visit the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
What Roof Damage Isn’t Covered by Insurance?
1. Wear and Tear or Age-Related Damage
Insurance companies do not cover normal wear and tear or aging roofs that fail due to old materials. If your roof is near the end of its lifespan (15-20 years for asphalt shingles), your insurer may deny claims related to deterioration.
2. Poor Maintenance
If your roof has existing damage, leaks, or missing shingles that were not repaired in a timely manner, your insurer could reject your claim. Regular inspections and maintenance can prevent this issue.
3. Manufacturer Defects or Installation Issues
If your roof was poorly installed or has defective materials, insurance companies consider this a contractor or manufacturer issue, not an insurable event. In these cases, you’ll need to contact the roofing company or check the manufacturer’s warranty.
How to File a Roof Damage Insurance Claim
1. Inspect the Damage and Take Photos
After a storm or other event, conduct a thorough roof inspection. Look for:
- Missing, cracked, or lifted shingles
- Dents or holes from hail or debris
- Leaks or water stains inside your home
Take clear photos of all visible damage to support your insurance claim.
2. Contact a Professional Roofing Contractor
Before filing a claim, have a licensed roofing contractor inspect the damage and provide an estimate. At Bison Roofing and Solar, we offer expert roof inspections and detailed reports to help homeowners with insurance claims.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage. They will:
- Assign a claims adjuster to inspect the roof
- Determine if the claim is covered under your policy
- Provide an estimate of what will be paid out
4. Work with Your Adjuster
Be present when the insurance adjuster inspects your roof. Having your roofing contractor on-site can ensure all damage is documented properly.
5. Review the Settlement Offer
Once your insurance company processes the claim, review their settlement offer carefully. If the amount seems too low or doesn’t fully cover the damage, you can negotiate or request a second inspection.
How to Avoid Claim Denials
1. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
Many claims are denied because insurers determine the damage was preventable. Having your roof inspected once or twice a year can help catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.
2. Maintain Proper Roof Documentation
Keep records of:
- Previous roof repairs and inspections
- Photos of your roof before and after storms
- Any communication with contractors or insurance agents
This documentation can support your claim if the insurer questions whether the damage was sudden or pre-existing.
3. Choose a Durable Roofing Material
If you live in Fort Lauderdale, consider impact-resistant roofing materials like metal or high-wind-rated shingles. Some insurers even offer discounts for storm-resistant roofs, lowering your premiums.
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
If your roof damage claim is denied, you still have options:
- Request a second inspection with additional evidence.
- Hire a public adjuster to evaluate your claim independently.
- File an appeal if you believe the denial was unfair.
Working with a trusted roofing contractor can help you navigate the appeals process and ensure all necessary documentation is submitted.
Need Help with a Roof Damage Claim? Get a Free Quote Today!
Dealing with roof damage and insurance claims can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Bison Roofing and Solar, we offer professional roof inspections, insurance claim assistance, and high-quality repairs to keep your home protected.
If you suspect roof damage or need expert guidance, get a free quote now and let our team help you restore your roof with confidence!
