Does Insurance Cover Wind Damage to Roof?

Homeowners insurance protects your property from unexpected events. Among common concerns for property owners is wind damage, especially to the roof. This guide clarifies how homeowners insurance addresses wind damage to roofs, from policy specifics to the claims process.

Understanding Your Homeowners Policy for Wind Damage

Most standard homeowners insurance policies, such as the HO-3 (Special Form) and HO-5 (Comprehensive Form), include coverage for wind damage as a covered peril. An HO-3 policy, the most common, provides broad coverage for the dwelling against all perils except those specifically excluded. An HO-5 policy offers comprehensive protection, covering both the dwelling and personal property on an “open perils” basis, meaning it covers all direct causes of loss unless explicitly excluded.

Specific exclusions and limitations exist within policies. Damage from neglect, pre-existing conditions, or lack of maintenance is typically not covered. Policies may also exclude cosmetic damage if it affects only the appearance and not the functionality of the roof.

Coverage includes a deductible, the amount paid out-of-pocket before insurance begins. For roof claims, particularly those involving wind or hail, many policies include a separate wind/hail deductible. This deductible is often a percentage of the home’s insured value, commonly ranging from 1% to 5%, rather than a fixed dollar amount.

The payout for roof damage depends on whether the policy uses Actual Cash Value (ACV) or Replacement Cost Value (RCV). ACV coverage provides the depreciated value of the roof at the time of damage, factoring in its age and condition. RCV coverage pays the full cost to repair or replace the roof with new materials of comparable quality, without deducting for depreciation. With RCV, the deductible is typically the only out-of-pocket expense for covered damage. Some policies may pay an initial ACV amount and then the remaining depreciation once repairs are completed.

Preparing to File a Wind Damage Claim

Before filing a wind damage claim, prioritize safety. Stay clear of damaged areas and make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering compromised sections with tarps. However, extensive permanent repairs should typically be avoided until an insurance adjuster has assessed the damage.

Documenting the damage is key. Take clear, high-resolution photos and videos from multiple angles, capturing wide shots of the entire roof and close-ups of specific damage like missing shingles, cracks, or dents. Documenting any interior damage, such as water stains or leaks, also shows the storm’s impact. Collect evidence of the wind event itself, such as severe weather reports or the date and time the damage occurred, to support the claim.

Seek an assessment from a reputable local roofing contractor to understand the damage extent and cause. This opinion can aid discussions with the insurer. Having your policy number and the insurer’s contact information readily available streamlines the claims process.

Filing and Managing Your Wind Damage Claim

Once documentation is prepared, initiate the claim with your insurer. This can be done by calling the claims line, utilizing an online portal, or contacting an insurance agent. Provide all gathered evidence, including photos, videos, and the date of loss, at this stage.

After the claim is filed, the insurer will usually dispatch an insurance adjuster to inspect the damaged roof. Be present during the inspection to point out damaged areas and answer questions. The adjuster’s role is to assess the damage, determine its cause, and estimate the cost of repairs or replacement.

Following the adjuster’s visit, obtain detailed repair estimates from qualified roofing contractors. These estimates should then be submitted to the insurer for review. Maintain clear, documented communication with the insurer, keeping a log of calls and confirming conversations in writing.

The insurance company will then issue a decision regarding the claim, which could be an approval, partial approval, or denial. If approved, the policyholder will receive payment according to the policy’s terms, typically after the deductible has been satisfied. Understand the rationale behind any decision, especially a denial or underpayment, and seek clarification or appeal decisions if necessary.