Roof Insurance Explained: Leaks, Replacement & More

3 minutes can save you hundreds. Enter your postal code below and join thousands of Canadians saving on insurance.

Secure. No Spam. No Fees.

Why You Can Trust MyChoice

MyChoice serves as an independent intermediary between you, financial institutions and licensed professionals without any additional charge to our users. In the interest of transparency, we disclose that we partner with some of the providers we write about – we also list many financial services without any financial gain. MyChoice does not operate a financial institution or brokerage and to ensure accuracy, our content is reviewed by licensed professionals. Our unique position means that we hold no recurring stake in your policy, ensuring our mission to help Canadians make better financial decisions is free of bias or discrimination. 

Article Contents
Picture of By <span>Matthew Roberts</span>
By Matthew Roberts

Updated on October 31, 2024

Visit author page
Picture of By <span>Matthew Roberts</span>
By Matthew Roberts

Updated October 31, 2024

Visit author page

4 minute read

Article Contents

Home Insurance for Roof Leaks and Replacement at a Glance

  • With a few exceptions, you can get insurance coverage to repair or replace a leaking roof. Factors like your roof’s age and the cause of the leak can influence whether your claim is denied.
  • Regular inspection and repair is the best way to avoid leaks and damage to your roof.
  • It’s imperative to always document damage when filing a claim for a roof leak.

Keeping a roof over your head is necessary for comfortable living, so spotting a leak can feel like a nuisance. Thankfully, you can get coverage for roof leaks from your home insurance plan, but it isn’t as simple as signing a form. Learn what your home insurance covers and how it can help you manage or repair a leaky roof.

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?

Homeowner’s insurance does cover water damage from a leaking roof on an open peril basis. “Open peril” means you’ll receive financial compensation for damage covered from all sources except those excluded from your specific policy. 

Common perils that a home insurance policy doesn’t cover for a leaky roof include the following:

  • Mold
  • Normal wear over time
  • Ground movement caused by earthquakes
  • Government action
  • Pet damage
  • Pest infestations
  • Theft if the property is under construction
  • Vandalism if the property is vacant
  • Intentional loss or neglect
  • Foundation or pavement damage caused by ice or snow

Depending on the extent of the damage, various aspects of your insurance plan can cover replacements or repairs. For example, dwelling coverage can pay for structural damage, whereas personal property coverage can finance repairs to damaged belongings.

What Factors Affect Insurance Coverage for Roof Leaks?

Remember, home insurance can cover repairs and replacements for roof leaks, but only in most circumstances. These factors can influence whether you get full or partial coverage for your roof:

Age of roof

An older roof with regular wear and tear may no longer qualify for coverage. For instance, if you’re wondering, “Will insurance cover a 15-year-old roof?” the answer is typically yes. Now, the answer to “Will insurance cover a 20-year-old roof?” may be more ambiguous, as most insurance companies don’t cover roofs older than 20 years.

Policyholder’s maintenance

Regularly maintaining and repairing your roof can increase the likelihood of receiving full coverage, as it communicates to insurance companies that you are responsible for your property. Keeping maintenance records can also be helpful when making a claim.

Pre-existing conditions to your property

If you were aware of roof damage before purchasing a home insurance policy, non-disclosure could void coverage.

Cause of the leak

As mentioned, home insurance does not cover all perils. However, it typically covers damage from natural causes like hail, fire, or storms.

Roof type

What kind of roof you have can influence how much you get paid out. For example, flat roof home insurance may be more expensive because the risk is higher, whereas you can typically get full coverage for a cheaper asphalt roof.

What Affects Insurance Coverage for Roof Leaks?

Does Home Insurance Cover Roof Replacement?

The answer is yes, but before getting insurance to pay for your roof replacement, it’s essential to determine whether it’s worth making a claim. If the leak is sudden and accidental, you have a good chance of receiving compensation. Cover all your bases by reading through your home insurance policy. 

Remember that filing a claim can raise your insurance premiums even if the insurance company doesn’t pay you anything, so it’s vital to weigh your options. 

Here’s how to make a home insurance claim for roof replacement:

  1. Document the damage by taking clear photos and videos. Keep a detailed log, noting the dates of damage.
  2. Contact your insurance provider as soon as you notice the damage. Provide fundamental information about the incident and damage.
  3. Follow your insurer’s specific instructions for filing a claim, providing the appropriate documentation. 
  4. Schedule a home inspection with an insurance adjuster, who will examine and assess the damage.
  5. Obtain quotes from reputable roofing contractors. Occasionally, your insurance company may provide recommended contacts.

What Should I Do if My Claim for Roof Replacement Is Denied?

You can appeal your claim by requesting another on-site inspection and working with an insurance lawyer to help generate the appropriate reports.

The Costs of Roof Repair and Replacement

When deciding whether to make a claim or cover the replacement yourself, it’s important to know how much coverage you can receive and what your deductible is.

Asphalt roofs are the cheapest to replace, costing between $10,000 and $24,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home, whereas replacing a slate roof can cost up to $70,000. 

How to Inspect Your Roof for Damage

Because home insurance policies only cover some roof-related damage, inspecting and maintaining your roof thoroughly is essential. Here are some tips for inspecting your roof for damage:

If you notice water marks on your wall or ceiling, the source of the leak is likely nearby. If the roof leaks, determine the point of entry, which could be a missing or broken shingle. Of course, prioritize your safety when inspecting your roof. Wear the appropriate footwear and use a sturdy ladder.

Inspectors can guarantee thoroughness when inspecting your roof for leaks. They have specialized tools to notice things that may seem obscure and check hard-to-reach places like gutters and downspouts.

Use a garden hose to spray water onto the roof, checking for any visible leaks. Check to see if water pools in one area – this may indicate a blockage or damage.

Key Advice from MyChoice

  • Metal roofs are typically the cheapest to insure in Canada. They are sturdier and pose a lower risk compared to asphalt shingles. 
  • Maintaining your roof is the best way to avoid making a claim. Inspect your roof with every season change and remove debris like leaves and twigs. Keep your gutters clean and check for any loose shingles. Maintenance is imperative, especially if you live in a high-risk home.
  • It’s worth considering your warranty before making a claim. Your roof provider can provide coverage in case of a manufacturer defect, and some providers also have warranties for general damage.

Congratulations! You made it to the end!

Now, here is the easy part: complete your quote in under 2 minutes

Discover More About

Explore whether tenant insurance covers water damage in rental units. Learn what incidents qualify for coverage, and discover key exceptions.
Solar panels give homeowners a lot of benefits. However, there may be drawbacks. Read on to learn how it can affect your home insurance.
Before celebrating this major milestone, find out why it’s crucial to notify your insurance provider after paying off your mortgage.

Even More Ways To Save