Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?

A leaky roof is one of the most common perils covered by a home insurance policy's dwelling coverage. Insurance often covers the cost of roof repairs and replacements if a storm, severe snowfall or lightning strike damages the roof and causes water leaks.

Dwelling coverage is part of your home insurance policy that covers your home structure and any outbuildings, such as a garage or other structure, as long as they are attached to your home. This type of coverage can help repair or rebuild the physical structure of your home if a covered peril damages it.

As a part of the physical structure, the roof is covered under dwelling coverage. So, homeowners insurance covers roof leaks if the damage is sudden and a covered peril causes it. If you need to file a homeowners insurance claim for roof damage, here are some instances where your policy covers roof leaks.

Homeowners insurance dwelling coverage pays for roof leaks because of certain causes of the damage. For instance, home insurance covers rainwater damage if it suddenly causes a roof leak. Additionally, you may also get personal property coverage for roof leaks if it damages your other personal property, such as your furniture.

An ice dam that forms on your roof during a cold winter can cause water to drip down the ceiling of your house and onto the carpet. Your personal property coverage pays to fix or replace any damaged carpet, but your dwelling coverage would cover the cost of repairing the roof.

Homeowners insurance doesn't cover roof leaks if a non-covered peril causes the damage. For example, homeowners insurance will not provide coverage if the leak was caused by faulty construction or neglect. For insurance companies to approve your claim, you have to prove that a covered peril caused the roof leaks.

Scenarios where homeowners insurance doesn't cover roof leaks include:

• Roof leaks caused by a lack of maintenance, pests or mold are generally not covered.
• Roof leaks are common with age due to general wear and tear; this type of damage is not covered.

When it comes to protecting your home, homeowners insurance provides financial compensation in the case of a covered peril. However, you must maintain your roof to avoid leaks since general wear and tear is not covered by insurance. Repairing a leaking roof as soon as possible can help minimize damage and help avoid getting your home insurance canceled.

Most major insurers, including State Farm, Progressive, GEICO and Farmers, provide homeowners insurance. Regional insurance companies like Lemonade and Hippo also offer homeowners insurance. You can shop around for home insurance and compare rates from several companies to find the best provider for your needs.

Homeowners insurance costs an average of $175 per month. However, your rate may vary based on the company and the value of your home and personal belongings. To estimate how much you may pay for homeowners insurance, use MoneyGeek's personal property calculator.