Roof leaks are one of the most common issues homeowners face, but not all leaks are covered by insurance. Understanding the causes of roof leaks and what your homeowners' insurance policy may or may not cover can help you make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance. In this guide, we’ll explore common causes of roof leaks, what types of damage may be covered by insurance, and what general wear and tear is typically excluded from coverage.
Common Causes of Roof Leaks
A leaking roof can result from several different factors, ranging from storm damage to natural wear and tear. Below are some of the most common causes:
1. Hail Damage
Hailstorms are a frequent occurrence in Houston and Austin, especially during storm season. Even small hailstones can cause significant damage to a roof, leading to leaks over time. While large hail can create visible dents and cracks in shingles, smaller hail damage might not be immediately obvious but can still weaken your roofing system, allowing water to penetrate. Here is what hail storm damage can look like on roofs and why it's important to get your FREE Inspection after any hail:
2. Wind Damage
Strong winds from storms, hurricanes, or tornadoes can tear off shingles or lift them, creating an opening for water to seep in. Even if shingles aren’t completely removed, wind creased shingles—where wind bends the shingle, causing it to crack—can lead to leaks down the road. Here is what wind storm damage can look like on your roof and why it's critical to schedule your FREE Roof Inspection after a storm:
3. Falling Debris (Tree Limbs, Branches, or Other Objects)
During storms, tree limbs, branches, and other debris can fall onto your roof, puncturing shingles and underlayment. Over time, even minor damage can lead to leaks if left unaddressed.
4. Lightning Strikes & Fire Damage
Lightning strikes can cause immediate and severe roof damage, often resulting in fire or structural compromise. Fire damage, whether from lightning or another cause, can weaken roofing materials and create vulnerabilities where water can seep in.
5. Improper Installation or Poor Workmanship
If your roof wasn’t installed correctly, it might not be properly sealed against water intrusion. This includes issues such as poorly placed flashing, incorrect nail placement, or improper sealing around vents and chimneys.
6. Clogged Gutters
Gutters that aren’t properly maintained can cause water to pool on the roof instead of draining away, leading to moisture damage and leaks over time.
7. Worn or Cracked Flashing or Sealant
Flashing is the metal or sealant material used to direct water away from roof valleys, chimneys, vents, and skylights. Over time, flashing and sealant can crack or deteriorate, allowing water to seep into your home.
What Roof Leaks Are Typically Covered by Insurance?
While every homeowners’ insurance policy is different, most policies cover sudden and accidental damage caused by storms, falling objects, and other unpredictable events. Here’s a closer look at roof damage that is typically covered by insurance:
1. Hail Damage and Insurance Coverage
Hail damage is one of the most commonly covered roofing claims. However, hail damage is not always visible to the untrained eye. While large hailstones may leave noticeable dents or break shingles, smaller hail can create micro-fractures that weaken the roof’s structure over time. If left unaddressed, these tiny fractures can lead to leaks months or even years after the storm.
This is why it’s essential to have a professional roofing inspection after a hailstorm, even if your roof looks fine from the ground. Many insurance policies have time limits on filing claims, so identifying hail damage early is crucial.
2. Wind Damage and Insurance Coverage
Wind damage varies from completely missing shingles to subtle creasing that weakens the roof. Some common signs of wind damage include:
Torn-off or missing shingles
Creased shingles (which may not be visible without close inspection)
Lifted or curled shingles that no longer provide a watertight seal
Damaged flashing or soffits
Insurance typically covers roof damage from high winds as long as it is documented and reported in a timely manner. Similar to hail damage, even minor wind damage can compromise the integrity of your roof over time, leading to leaks if not addressed.
3. Damage from Falling Objects (Tree Limbs, Branches, or Other Debris)
If a tree limb or debris falls onto your roof and causes damage, your insurance will likely cover the cost of repairs. However, if the insurance company determines that the tree was dead or not properly maintained before the storm, they may deny the claim due to homeowner negligence.
4. Fire, Lightning Strikes, and Insurance Coverage
Fire damage, whether caused by lightning or other sources, is generally covered by homeowners’ insurance. Lightning strikes can cause direct impact damage, fires, or power surges that affect your home’s structure, including the roof.
5. Other Perils Typically Covered by Insurance
Depending on your policy, additional perils such as vandalism, unexpected roof collapse due to extreme weather, or damage from severe ice storms may be covered. It’s always best to review your policy to understand what specific damages are included.
How a Roof Insurance Claim Works in Texas
Filing an insurance claim for roof damage may seem overwhelming, but understanding the process can help make it easier. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:
1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
If you suspect your roof has been damaged, the first step is to get a professional inspection. Martin Roofing and Solar offers free inspections in Houston and Austin to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether a claim is necessary.
2. Schedule Your Insurance To Come Out
Once we confirm storm-related damage, you’ll need to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance company. Your insurer will ask for details about the damage and may request photos or documentation.
3. Insurance Adjuster Inspection
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect your roof. It’s crucial to have a roofing professional present during the inspection to ensure all damage is properly documented.
4. Claim Approval and Payout
If your claim is approved, your insurance company will provide a payout based on the cost of repairs or replacement. The payment and price is typically issued in two parts: an initial check for actual cash value (ACV) and a second payment after work is completed.
5. Roof Repairs or Replacement
Once your claim is processed, Martin Roofing and Solar will complete the necessary repairs or install a new roof using high-quality materials designed to withstand Texas weather based upon their scope of work.
Will Filing a Roof Insurance Claim Raise My Rates?
Many homeowners worry that filing a claim for roof damage will increase their insurance premiums. However, Texas law includes an Act of God Clause, which means insurance companies cannot raise your rates for damage caused by natural disasters, such as hailstorms, hurricanes, or tornadoes. Since hail and wind damage are classified as Acts of God, your rates will not increase simply for filing a claim related to storm damage.
However, your rates could increase if your area experiences widespread claims, as insurers adjust premiums based on regional risk factors. This is not specific to your claim or individual policy but rather a market-wide adjustment.
What Roof Leaks Are NOT Covered by Insurance?
(General Wear & Tear and Maintenance Issues)
While insurance covers sudden and accidental damage, it does not cover general wear and tear, neglect, or lack of maintenance. Here are some common roof issues that homeowners are responsible for:
1. Pipe Jack Covers and Cracked Flashing
Pipe jack covers, which seal around plumbing vents, can crack over time due to sun exposure and weather changes. Cracked or deteriorating flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents can also lead to leaks. Since these are maintenance-related issues, they are not covered by insurance.
2. Failing Sealant and Caulking
Sealant and caulking are used to keep water from seeping into small gaps around vents, flashing, and other roof penetrations. Over time, sealant can dry out and crack, leading to minor leaks. Homeowners are expected to keep up with this maintenance to prevent damage.
3. Roof Age and General Deterioration
Insurance companies will not cover a roof that has simply worn out due to age. If your roof is near the end of its lifespan (typically 20-30 years for asphalt shingles), you may be responsible for replacing it out of pocket.
4. Neglected Gutter Maintenance
Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on your roof and seep under the shingles, leading to leaks and rot. Since routine gutter cleaning is a homeowner’s responsibility, damage caused by neglect is not covered.
5. Poor Installation or Workmanship
If a previous contractor installed your roof incorrectly, insurance is unlikely to cover the cost of repairs. This is why it’s important to choose a reputable roofing company like Martin Roofing and Solar for installations and repairs.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Roof and Insurance Coverage
Roof leaks can be stressful, but understanding what your insurance covers can help you navigate the claims process. If your roof has been damaged by hail, wind, falling objects, or other sudden events, your insurance may help cover the cost of repairs. However, general wear and tear, lack of maintenance, and poor workmanship are typically not covered.
For homeowners in Houston and Austin, Martin Roofing and Solar offers professional roof inspections to identify storm damage and help you determine whether you have a valid insurance claim. Don’t wait until a minor leak turns into a major problem—contact us today for a free roof inspection!
Houston: 832-617-4037
Austin: 512-298-2944
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