Your roof is part of your home, which means it’s covered by homeowners insurance, right? Unfortunately, the real answer isn’t so straightforward.
Not all roof issues are supported by insurance companies. Though the details vary between unique policies, most homeowners insurance options share a few core traits. Namely, sudden environmental damages are covered, but problems prompted by poor upkeep are not.
Consequently, regular roof inspections can save both your house and bank account. Connect with Mammoth to keep your premiums low with a variety of maintenance services.
Before scheduling an appointment, you can also learn more about when and why to contact an insurance provider:
What is Covered by Homeowners Insurance
As previously mentioned, insurance companies typically cover only sudden damages. These include roof injuries from natural occurrences or environmental threats like:
- Extreme precipitation (including heavy rain, snow or hail)
- Fire or smoke
- High winds
- Hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning storms
- Power surges
It should be noted, however, that providers will only address notable exterior scarring. That is, one or two missing shingles or a small crack are merely cosmetic issues, which aren’t covered.
Following intense weather, it’s best to schedule a storm assessment. Throughout this process, a hiring professional will analyze your home for problems like missing shingles, foreign debris or denting from hail.
The expert conducting the storm assessment often has enough insurance knowledge to help you determine when to file a claim. Any uninsured issues can be addressed in follow-up service appointments.
What is NOT Covered by Homeowners Insurance
Unfortunately, there are far more problems that aren’t supported by insurance companies. Any damage remotely related to poor maintenance likely won’t be covered, including:
- Pest damage (from squirrels, cockroaches or rats)
- Regular wear-and-tear (from typical weather conditions or high winds)
- Small cosmetic issues (like a missing or cracked shingle)
- Most roof replacements
Those who own a home that’s over 15 years old are especially affected by the lack of coverage. Insurers will often demand a home inspection, and when your aging roof inevitably needs replacing, you may receive limited funds.
However, there are a few steps you can follow to improve your chances of earning coverage for repairs and roof replacements.
Earning Coverage for Repairs and Replacements
Above all, insurers want proof that you’ve put effort into protecting your home.
If you experience minor damages, schedule a repair appointment with a nearby roofing company. Keep evidence of these services (as well as regular inspections), as they prove you’ve taken care of small issues independently.
If more extensive problems do appear, take before and after photos when possible. This can also serve as evidence when you file a claim, improving your chances of reimbursement.
Schedule a San Antonio Roof Inspection
Homeowners’ insurance can be complicated. However, keeping up with repairs and maintenance is an easy way to maximize your roof’s coverage.
Contact Mammoth to get started with a San Antonio roof inspection. Our team will identify and resolve issues early on, reducing the risk of costly, uninsured damages.
