Considering all the storms and weather that we experience here in Sarasota, there is always a chance that even the highest quality roof may sustain damage.  And of course, an aging roof may also experience deterioration.

Given that a roof leak is something that cannot be ignored, many people wonder if the cost of fixing the leak is covered under their insurance policy.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow, however you may wish to speak with your insurance agent directly to understand the specific terms of your service.

Recap – Is Your Roof Leaking?

Before calling your insurance agent, let’s review how you can determine that your roof has a leak which will need to be repaired.

• Your Roof is Missing Shingles, or Shingles are Damaged -You may experience water intrusion if cracked or broken shingles are evident via a visual inspection. Be sure to always check your roof after a storm.
• Your Ceiling is Stained – If water has leaked through your roof, your ceiling or ceiling tiles are likely to have dark stains. The location of the stain may not be directly correlated to the location of the roof leak, as water often travels.
• Your Gutters are Full of Debris – When water cannot flow properly, it can pool up and find a way into your home. Moisture retention on your roof can also cause deterioration due to mold and mildew.

Is the Roof Leak Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

When it comes down to it, whether or not the leaks in your roof are covered depends on the cause of the leak – and if the homeowner was diligent in the care and maintenance of the roof.

If your roof was damaged due to wind from a storm, or if a tree fell on the roof and caused damage, the chances are excellent that your homeowner’s insurance will cover the repairs (or if necessary, roof replacement). However, if your roof is leaking because of age or normal wear and tear, it will most likely not be considered for coverage.

It is to be expected that a 30-year old roof may begin to leak. That is why diligence and maintenance are so important – because not only will the roof need replacing, but a significant roof leak may also cause damage to the rafters, framing, ceiling, or even interior of the home.

Staying abreast of your roof condition, especially if it is nearing the end of its life, is critical because in many cases, none of the damage from the leak will be covered.

Remember – every policy is different, so be sure to check with your insurance agent about the specifics of your coverage.

In summary, if your roof is leaking due to a catastrophic event, storm, or accident, most homeowner policies will pay for the repair or replacement. In all other cases, it is more likely that you will be responsible to pay for any damages – so it is best to be proactive.

In addition to checking your roof after a storm, schedule an annual roof inspection with a Sarasota roofing contractor like Avery Roof Services. It may save you a lot of headaches and money down the road.