A leaking roof is every homeowner’s nightmare—water stains on the ceiling, unexpected drips, and the fear of costly repairs. Before you panic, you’re probably wondering: Will my homeowners insurance cover this?
The answer? It depends.
Insurance is designed to cover sudden and accidental damage, not problems that develop over time. That means if a storm or an unexpected event caused your roof to start leaking, you’re in luck. If it’s an old roof that’s been wearing down for years, coverage is less likely. Insurance carriers are no substitute for proactive home maintenance!
Here’s what you need to know about when insurance will (and won’t) help, plus what to do if your claim is denied.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover a Roof Leak?
Most policies cover damage that happens suddenly—not issues that result from neglect or age. If your roof was in good shape before an incident, and something like a storm, falling tree, or heavy snow caused a leak, there’s a good chance your insurer will pay for repairs.
Common Covered Causes:
- High winds or hail
- Fallen tree limbs or debris
- Heavy snow or ice dams
- Fire or lightning strikes
- Sudden animal damage (like a raccoon tearing through shingles – BUT NOT bugs or rodents!!)
If the damage was unavoidable and unexpected, you’ll have a strong case. However, insurers will scrutinize whether your roof was properly maintained before the incident.
When Is a Roof Leak Not Covered?
Insurance companies aren’t in the business of paying for wear and tear. If your roof is simply old or has been neglected, you’re probably on your own for repairs. HOWEVER, having a really old roof does NOT exempt you from qualifying for wind or hail damage. An old roof smashed by a storm can still be covered due to an Act of God and may be susceptible to damages.
Common Reasons for Denial:
- Aging and natural wear (without storm damage)
- Poor maintenance (e.g., missing shingles that were never replaced)
- Pre-existing damage from an old storm
- Installation or manufacturer defects
For example, let’s say you’ve had loose or curling shingles for years. After a heavy rain, you notice a leak. Since the problem didn’t happen suddenly, your insurance provider may argue that it resulted from lack of upkeep.
However, if you have a 22 year old shingle which was old but otherwise maintained – if the system begins to shed shingles in high winds or is hammered with large hail – that can qualify as a suddenly occurring leak!
Will Insurance Cover Interior Water Damage?
Here’s a tricky part: Even if your roof itself isn’t covered, the damage inside your home might be.
For instance, if a windstorm causes your roof to leak, insurance may cover the resulting damage to ceilings, walls, or floors. But if the leak was caused by an aging roof that wasn’t repaired, your claim will likely be denied.
Every policy is different, so it’s worth reviewing the fine print.
How to Strengthen Your Roof Leak Claim
Insurance companies don’t hand out claim approvals easily. If you want to increase your chances of getting coverage, here’s what you can do:
1. Document Everything Immediately
- Take clear photos and videos of the damage.
- Write down the date and suspected cause.
- Take steps to prevent further damage, like placing buckets under leaks or covering exposed areas.
2. Get a Professional Roof Inspection
- A qualified roofer can assess whether the damage is storm-related.
- ACR provides inspections with reports that can help support your claim.
- The more proof you have, the harder it is for the insurer to deny coverage.
3. File Your Claim Quickly
- Most policies have strict deadlines for filing a claim after damage occurs.
- The longer you wait, the more likely the insurance company is to push back.
4. Don’t Accept a Denial Without a Second Opinion
- If your claim is denied, you have options.
- Request a reinspection and have your contractor present.
- Consider using the appraisal clause in your policy to dispute their assessment.
- If necessary, a public adjuster or state insurance complaint may help overturn a denial.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive & Protect Your Home
A leaking roof doesn’t automatically mean financial disaster—if you know how to handle the insurance process. Understanding your policy, keeping up with roof maintenance, and working with a knowledgeable contractor can help you get the coverage you deserve.
If you suspect a leak, don’t wait until it gets worse. Contact ACR for a free roof inspection and guidance on navigating the claims process. We’re here to help protect your home—and your wallet.