Will My Insurance Cover a Full Roof Replacement or Just Repairs?

If a storm damaged your roof, one of the first questions you might have is: Will my insurance cover a full roof replacement or just repairs? After all, insurance policies can be challenging to comprehend.

Let’s answer your question. This article clarifies how insurance companies make decisions, how homeowners like yourself can advocate for fair roof coverage, and how a reputable roofing contractor like Storm Guard can help.

How Insurance Companies Decide

Generally, insurers consider these factors to determine the type of coverage to authorize:

• Extent of the Damage: Insurers typically only authorize repairs for minor, localized problems and reserve replacements for more extensive damage.
• Age of Your Roof: You’ll only get a payout amounting to your roof’s actual cash value when it was damaged, not its cost when it was still new.
• Type of Damage: More often than not, homeowner’s insurance covers damage from events like storms and hail, excluding damage from poor maintenance and general wear.

Your insurance adjuster will use this information to determine whether to authorize storm damage roof repairs or replacements. So, keep these key factors in mind to stay aware of your roof insurance coverage limits and avoid any surprises down the road.

When Insurance May Cover a Full Roof Replacement

Roof replacement costs can be high—that’s why insurers tend to be highly selective when authorizing funds for a replacement after a storm. Generally, roof replacement insurance covers replacement projects only in these circumstances:

• There is severe, irreparable storm damage across a large area of your roof
• Your roof sustained hail or wind damage that compromises its structural integrity and puts everyone indoors at risk
• Repairs don’t meet the standards of local building codes, which require full replacements for the given damage

Evaluate your circumstances for any of these points. If you identify one, the odds are your insurance company will likely authorize a replacement.

When Insurance Typically Covers Only Repairs

Not all damage requires a replacement. In a standard homeowner’s insurance policy, most roofing problems are manageable with repairs, including:

• Minor or localized damage, such as a few cracks or missing shingles
• Wear-and-tear and maintenance-related issues that did not stem from hail, rain, or wind

Most of these issues can easily be addressed with a quick fix, which is considerably cheaper than full roof replacements. As such, insurers will likely approve your repairs if the circumstances fall under this coverage.

The Importance of a Professional Roof Inspection

Before you think, “Will my insurance cover a full roof replacement or just repairs?” You should first think about hiring a professional inspector to assess the damage—a critical step in the claims process.

A professional roof inspector will document the full extent of the damage, including hidden problems that you and your insurance adjuster might miss. In effect, you get a more accurate assessment, giving you a better chance of getting approval.

A certified inspector will also tell you whether your roof needs repairs or replacement so that you can plan ahead. That’s why it’s crucial to have a trusted contractor like Storm Guard by your side throughout the process.

How Storm Guard Helps with the Insurance Claims Process

Storm Guard has assisted countless homeowners through their roof insurance claims.

Our free, no-obligation roof inspections help them understand the extent of the storm’s damage to their roofs and the types of claims they can file. We also provide detailed photos and damage reports to support and strengthen your claims.

Do you need an advocate? We’re ready to meet with your insurance adjuster during their damage assessment to ensure nothing gets overlooked. In turn, you’re more likely to get the maximum amount you’re entitled to.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

Avoiding these mistakes drastically increases your chances of getting a much-needed approval, so keep these points in mind:

• Filing Claims Without Inspection: Most insurers require you to submit a comprehensive damage assessment report from a professional inspector.
• Delaying Too Long: Insurance policies state deadlines for filing claims, after which you become ineligible. So, start the claims process as soon as possible.
• Accepting Initial Low Repair Coverage: Get a second opinion from a contractor if you believe you need extensive repairs but only got approved for a minor fix.

Why Work with a Local Contractor

While you could hire a roofing contractor from anywhere, nothing beats getting help from a local business like Storm Guard.

Our deep familiarity with Madison’s weather means we can spot roofing issues and provide fixes specifically chosen for the local climate. We’ll also be able to respond to your needs faster, making your entire experience, from inspections to repairs or replacements, stress-free.

Safeguard Your Property and Finances

Will insurance cover a full roof replacement or just repairs? The answer depends on the extent of the damage, the roof’s age, and the documentation provided. Thankfully, with the right support, you can maximize your coverage and obtain much-needed help.

We’ve got you covered. Storm Guard Roofing of Madison provides expert inspections, claims support, and roof repairs or replacements, so rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.

Contact us today for a free inspection and expert guidance through your insurance claims!