A leaking roof can cause water damage to ceilings, walls and contents, lead to mould, and in some cases affect the structure of your home. Whether you can claim on your house insurance usually depends on what caused the leak. This article explains when a roof leak may be covered, what is usually excluded, and how to make a claim.
Does Home Insurance Cover Roof Repairs?
Home insurance generally covers roof damage caused by an insured event (sometimes called an insured peril) listed in your policy. It does not usually cover a roof that has simply worn out. Common examples are set out below, but your own policy wording decides what is covered.
Storm Damage
If high winds, a falling tree or other severe weather damages your roof, the repairs may be covered under the storm section of your policy. Document the damage and notify your insurer promptly.
Fire Damage
Fire is a standard insured event on most home policies. Where it is covered, the cost of repairing the roof and other damage to your home may be included, subject to your policy terms and excess.
Vandalism
Damage caused deliberately by someone else may be covered under the malicious damage section of your policy, if your policy includes it.
Wear and Tear
Most home insurance policies do not cover repairs needed because of normal wear and tear or the age of the roof.
Lack of Maintenance
If your insurer concludes that the leak was caused by lack of maintenance, it may decline the claim. Keeping your roof in good repair and dealing with problems promptly helps avoid disputes about cover.
Why Roof Maintenance Matters
- Preventing water damage: a well-maintained roof keeps water out, which helps avoid costly repairs and damp or mould.
- Extending the life of your roof: regular checks can catch small problems before they become larger ones.
- Protecting your home’s value: a damaged or poorly maintained roof can affect how your home is valued.
- Avoiding claim disputes: insurers may decline claims where they find the damage was caused by lack of maintenance or neglect.
How to Make a Roof Damage Claim
Prevent Further Damage
If it is safe to do so, take reasonable steps to stop more water getting in, such as arranging a temporary covering over the damaged area. Do not go onto the roof yourself. Keep receipts for any emergency work, and do not carry out permanent repairs until your insurer has agreed the scope of the work.
Contact Your Insurer
Notify your insurer as soon as you can after the damage happens. Give them a factual account of what happened and what has been damaged.
Document the Damage
Take photographs and video of the roof damage and any water damage inside, and note the date and time the damage happened or was found. Keep any damaged materials as evidence where you can.
Consider a Loss Assessor
You can choose to appoint a loss assessor to act for you. A loss assessor represents you, the policyholder, and prepares and presents your claim. The loss adjuster who inspects the damage is appointed and paid by your insurer.
Get a Written Estimate
Get a written estimate from a reputable roofing contractor setting out the work needed and the cost. This helps support the amount you are claiming.
Complete the Claim
Send the required documents, including the contractor’s estimate and your photographs, to your insurer. Keep copies, follow up regularly, and respond to reasonable requests for further information or inspections.
How Does a Loss Assessor Help?
A loss assessor works on behalf of the policyholder throughout the claim. This can include:
- Policy review: checking your policy wording to establish what cover applies.
- Damage assessment: inspecting and recording the damage.
- Claim preparation: preparing and submitting a detailed claim with supporting evidence.
- Negotiation: dealing with the insurer and its loss adjuster on your behalf.
- If a claim is declined or disputed: helping you raise the matter with the insurer and, where appropriate, through its complaints process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you claim on house insurance for a leaking roof?
Often yes, if the leak was caused by an insured event such as a storm. A leak caused by wear and tear or lack of maintenance is usually not covered. Check your policy wording.
Do I need a loss assessor for a roof claim?
No, it is your choice. Some policyholders appoint one for larger or more complex claims.
How long does a roof claim take?
It depends on the size and complexity of the claim, whether cover is disputed, and how quickly information is provided. There is no fixed timeframe.
Will my premium increase if I claim?
It may. Insurers consider factors such as the size of the claim and your claims history.
Can I choose my own roofing contractor?
Many insurers allow this, but check with your insurer before work starts. It is sensible to get more than one quote and to use a contractor who is insured and reputable.
Talk to Insurance Claim Solutions
Trevor Kelly Insurance Claim Solutions Limited, trading as Insurance Claim Solutions, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland (Reg. No. C423441). Our loss assessors act for policyholders across the Republic of Ireland on property and business interruption claims. If you have a leaking roof or other property damage and would like to discuss your claim, call us on 01 870 9210. Your initial consultation is free.
This article is general information only and is not advice on your specific policy. Cover depends on your policy wording.