Should you file an insurance claim for roof damage? Yes, it’s often worth it. Most homeowners save money when they claim roof damage because insurance pays for repairs.
Your insurance policy covers storm damage, wind, and hail. You only pay your deductible. The rest is covered.
But there are things to know first. Some claims raise your rates. Some damage may not be covered.
How Much Does Roof Damage Cost to Fix?
According to HomeAdvisor, the average roof repair costs between $300 and $1,000. Major roof damage can cost $5,000 or more.
If your damage costs more than your deductible, a claim makes sense. Most deductibles are $500 to $1,000.
For example, if damage costs $4,000 and your deductible is $1,000, you pay $1,000 and insurance pays $3,000. That saves you a lot.
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What Damage Does Insurance Cover?
Insurance covers storm damage. This includes hail, wind, and falling trees.
Insurance does not cover wear and tear. It does not cover old roofs. It does not cover bad maintenance.
- Covered: Storm damage, hail damage, wind damage, fallen trees
- Not covered: Age damage, missing shingles from neglect, poor maintenance
- Maybe covered: Water leaks, ice dams (depends on your policy)
Will a Roof Claim Raise Your Insurance Rates?
The National Roofing Contractors Association reports that one claim typically raises rates by 5% to 10%. This is for one year or longer.
However, rates depend on your insurance company. Some companies raise rates more than others. Storm claims are sometimes better than accident claims.
Ask your agent before you claim. They can tell you how much your rates will go up.
How to Know If a Claim Is Worth It
Compare the repair cost to the rate increase. Do the math first.
| Repair Cost | Your Deductible | Insurance Pays | Claim Worth It? |
|---|---|---|---|
| $800 | $1,000 | $0 | No |
| $2,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 | Maybe |
| $5,000 | $1,000 | $4,000 | Yes |
| $10,000 | $1,000 | $9,000 | Yes |
If damage costs less than your deductible, don’t claim. You’ll pay for it anyway.
If damage costs $2,000 to $3,000, call your agent. They help you decide.
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What About Multiple Claims?
Recent studies show that two or more claims in three years can hurt you badly. Your rates go up a lot. Some companies cancel your policy.
Think hard before claiming the second time. Small claims may not be worth it.
One big storm damage claim is usually fine. Multiple small claims are risky.
When You Should Always File a Claim
File a claim if damage is $5,000 or more. The savings are too big to skip.
File if the damage came from a covered event. A tree fell on your roof during a storm. Wind tore off shingles. Hail dented the roof.
Do not file if you caused the damage yourself. Do not file if the damage is from poor maintenance.
- Always file: Major storm damage over $5,000
- Usually file: Damage between $2,000 and $5,000
- Don’t file: Damage under your deductible or from neglect
Steps to Take Before Filing
Get pictures of the damage. Take photos from the ground and from the roof if safe.
Get a roof inspection. A professional can write a report. Insurance likes this.
According to insurance industry data, about 60% of roof damage claims get approved. Having photos and a professional report helps.
Call your agent and describe the damage. Ask if they think you should claim. Let them help you decide.
Connect with an experienced roofing services to discuss your roofing needs and schedule an inspection.