Does Home Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?

If you’ve spotted a leak in your roof, you’re likely worried and wondering if your home insurance covers roof leaks. A leaking roof has many potential culprits, such as hail damage and fallen tree branches. Left unaddressed, leaks can lead to long-term problems like mold growth, structural damage, and ruined insulation.

The good news is your homeowners policy likely covers leaks if a covered peril causes the leak. Here’s how to know if your homeowners insurance policy will cover leaks.

When home insurance covers roof leaks

A standard home insurance policy covers roof leaks if a sudden, unexpected event causes the leak. You won’t receive coverage for regular wear and tear. To better understand when your homeowners insurance policy may cover leaks, here’s a look at some commonly covered scenarios.1 2

Does home insurance cover roof replacement?

Your homeowners insurance policy may cover a full roof replacement, but only if your policy covers the peril that caused the damage. In most cases, that’ll be because the incident that led to needing a full roof replacement is due to sudden accidental damage, fire, storm damage, or falling objects.

Many other covered perils can lead to a full roof replacement, but you’re less likely to encounter them, like vandalism or a volcanic explosion. When in doubt, call your insurance agent to see what your home insurance policy covers.

When home insurance doesn’t cover roof leaks

Unfortunately, many common scenarios can lead to roof damage and corresponding leaks that your homeowners insurance policy won’t cover. Damage caused by a lack of maintenance or long-term issues typically isn’t covered.3

• Wear and tear or aging: If your roof deteriorates due to age or lack of maintenance, your home insurance policy won’t cover repairs for leaks caused by gradual damage.

• Neglect and poor maintenance: You’ll need to keep your roof in tip-top shape if you want your home insurance policy to help you out with leak issues. Leaks that result from failing to properly maintain or repair your roof — such as ignoring missing shingles or cracks — won’t receive coverage, as most insurance policies require you to keep up with basic home maintenance needs.

• Leaks from pre-existing damage: If a leak results from damage already present before you purchased your insurance policy, you won’t get assistance with the repair costs.

• Construction or installation defects: A home insurance policy doesn’t cover roof leaks caused by improper construction or poor installation practices. The contractor’s warranty would need to address these issues.

• Earthquake damage: Most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover earthquake damage. If you own a home in an area prone to earthquakes, it’s a good idea to buy separate coverage to help with this natural disaster.

How to find a roof leak

If you have concerns about a potential roof leak, it’s best if you locate and repair it as soon as possible to avoid substantial damage. Here are some ways you can locate a leak in your home:

• Inspect the ceilings and attics. Check both your ceilings and attics for any water stains, mold, or discoloration. This is important to check for after heavy rain occurs. Look for moisture or dark streaks, which are common signs of a leak.

• Examine the roof from the outside. Look for damaged, missing, or curled shingles, as well as cracked flashing around vents and chimneys. These areas are common entry points for water.

• Use a hose test. If you suspect a leak but can’t find it, run a garden hose over the suspected areas while someone watches inside for dripping. This process will help you pinpoint the source of the water intrusion.

• Check the gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters or downspouts can cause water to back up and leak into the home. Clearing them regularly can prevent leaks.

Cost to repair a roof leak

If your homeowners insurance policy won’t cover roof repairs after a leak, you’ll have to pay for those repairs out of pocket. Homeowners may pay anywhere from $400 to $2,000 to repair a leak. It’s important to note that this is just an average. 

Where you live, the roof repair professional you hire, the size of your home, and your chosen roof materials can all affect how much you’ll spend to repair a roof leak.

Should you file a home insurance claim for a roof leak?

It only makes sense to file a home insurance claim for a roof leak if it occurred because of a covered peril, such as a falling object or storm damage. Even if your homeowners insurance policy will cover the damage, you also need to keep your out-of-pocket expenses in mind.

If the cost of the deductible is higher than the repair costs, you may want to hold off on filing a claim. Not only will you end up spending more now, you risk your home insurance premium rising.

If you decide to file a claim, follow these steps:

Ways to protect your home against roof leaks

Roof leaks can damage a lot more than just your roof. Leaks can lead to major damage throughout the home, so it’s a good idea to have a plan to help prevent leaks.

• Inspect and maintain your roof regularly. Set a reminder on your calendar to check your roof at least twice a year for damaged or missing shingles, cracks in flashing, and signs of wear. Regular maintenance helps you identify and fix small problems before they turn into major leaks.

• Clean gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep under your roof. Ensure they’re clear of debris to allow proper drainage and prevent water buildup.

• Trim overhanging trees. Tree limbs that hang over your roof can fall during storms, causing damage and leaks.

• Install roof ventilation. Proper roof ventilation helps regulate temperature and moisture levels, reducing the chance of leaks due to trapped condensation or ice dams.

• Check attic insulation. Ensure your attic has proper insulation to prevent ice dams and excessive heat, which can lead to roof leaks.

Home insurance and roof leaks FAQs