Have you ever stood on your porch after a storm and wondered, “Will my insurance pay to fix this roof?” That’s one of the most common questions we at Hoel Roofing get, and it’s also one of the trickiest to answer simply. That’s because whether your homeowners’ policy will cover roof damage depends on what caused the damage, how old your roof is, and the specific language in your policy.
At Hoel Roofing, we are not new to insurance claims. In fact, we’ve helped hundreds of customers with denied claims get a more favorable response. We have helped them prepare the necessary documentation to dispute the claim and assisted them in navigating the process.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the type of roof damage that is usually covered, the type of damage that’s typically not covered, and how insurance companies choose whether to pay for complete replacement or a depreciated value (RCV vs. ACV. We’ll also discuss key factors that affect how much you’ll be paid and A FAQ section.
By the end, you’ll understand how to interpret your policy, how to build a strong claim, and what pitfalls to avoid, whether or not you choose to work with Hoel Roofing to support your claim.
Covered damage usually stems from sudden, accidental perils that you didn’t expect. If the damage occurs during a storm or other event, rather than because your roof was already failing, insurance is often more likely to cover it.
Common examples include:
Insurance generally excludes damage caused by gradual events or poor maintenance. Some of those are:
So, the rule of thumb is: sudden = possibly covered; gradual/ongoing damage = likely excluded. Always document your maintenance (repairs, inspections) to show you haven’t been neglectful.
Several factors can influence how much your insurance company reimburses you after roof damage. Understanding them upfront helps you set realistic expectations and spot red flags in your claim.
Insurance companies often use depreciation to determine payouts. Typically roofs 10 years or older, may not qualify for full replacement value. Instead, insurers may reduce your payment based on how much of the roof’s lifespan has passed. For example, if your roof is halfway through its expected life, you might receive only half the replacement cost unless your policy includes replacement cost value (RCV) coverage.
Think of it like car insurance.
If you total a 10-year-old car, your insurance company doesn’t give you enough money to buy a brand-new one—they pay you what the car was worth before the accident, factoring in its age and wear.
Was your entire roof affected, or just a portion of it? Full roof replacements typically qualify for larger claims, but insurers sometimes approve only partial repairs if they believe the rest of the roof remains functional. However, if materials are discontinued or matching isn’t possible, a good roofer can help advocate for a full replacement.
Premium materials, such as architectural shingles, metal panels, or specialty tiles, cost more to replace than basic asphalt shingles. Insurance payouts reflect that difference, but only if your policy covers replacement at current market rates. It’s worth confirming whether your policy covers like-kind and quality materials.
Damage isn’t always limited to shingles. Underlayment, decking, flashing, gutters, or vents may also need repair. Some insurance policies automatically cover these structural components, while others exclude them or require additional documentation to approve them. A detailed inspection from your roofer ensures nothing is missed.
Every homeowner’s policy is different. Some exclude cosmetic damage, certain weather events, or specific types of roofs (such as wood shake or flat roofs). Reading the fine print, or having your contractor or insurance agent explain it, can prevent unpleasant surprises when your claim is processed.
The strength of your claim depends heavily on the evidence you provide. Clear, date-stamped photos, thorough inspection reports, and detailed contractor estimates all make a difference. Insurers rely on this documentation to verify both the cause and extent of damage.
Once repairs begin, your roofer may uncover hidden issues, like rotten decking or damaged ventilation, that weren’t visible during the initial inspection. These supplements can be added to your insurance claim for additional coverage, but they require prompt documentation and approval from your adjuster.
Does insurance cover roof replacement for older roofs?
Coverage depends on your policy type and the age of your roof.
For example, suppose a roof replacement costs $15,000. Due to age and wear, the insurer may calculate depreciation of $6,000, resulting in an ACV of $9,000. If your policy is RCV-type, you might get $9,000 first, then, after you repair and submit receipts, receive the $6,000 “recoverable depreciation,” minus your deductible.
How much will I pay out-of-pocket for a claim?
You’ll pay your deductible first (e.g. $1,000 or a percentage of home value). Then, insurers might deny or limit coverage for elements they consider outside the “roof” (such as decking, flashing, and gutters). For example, if roof damage is $15,000 and your deductible is $1,500, your insurer will pay $13,500 (if the damage is covered). If flashing or decking was excluded or considered preexisting, you might pay that portion entirely yourself.
Always review line items carefully; the cheapest payout might look good upfront, but can leave you with large bills later.
How long do I have to file a roof damage claim in Indiana?
Indiana law requires you to report roof damage promptly (usually within 20–90 days). If you wait too long, your claim may be denied. Under Indiana Code § 27-8-5-3, you must give written notice of claim within 20 days after the damage occurs or as soon as reasonably possible. Indiana also prohibits unfair claim practices under Ind. Code § 27-4-1-4.5, which forces insurers to respond reasonably promptly once proof of loss is submitted. If you file late without a reasonable excuse, insurers may deny or reduce your claim, so act quickly.
What evidence should I submit to support a claim?
Strong documentation helps your claim pass adjuster scrutiny and may increase your payout.
Will filing a claim affect my premiums or policy renewal?
Possibly. One moderate claim may not significantly impact rates, but multiple claims or large payouts can lead to increased premiums or risk of non-renewal. Consult your agent for policy-specific guidance.
What if my claim is denied?
You can:
As you’ve learned, it depends. If the damage is caused by a covered peril (for example, wind, hail, fire, falling tree), yes, it will be covered. However, if the damage is a result of normal wear and tear, poor maintenance, or gradual deterioration, then no, your insurance will not cover it.
Insurance covers perils named in your policy. Typical covered perils include hail, wind, lightning, fire, falling objects, and sometimes vandalism. Typical non-covered causes include aging shingle failure, missing granules due to normal weathering, rot from long-term leaks, insect damage, and neglectful maintenance.
If your roof was particularly damaged by a storm, check out our article on How to Dispute a Denied Storm-Damage Insurance Claim — A Step-by-Step Guide to know if your homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage or not.
Hoel Roofing offers free roof inspections and claim assistance to help you maximize your insurance coverage. We’ll document the damage, explain your options, and guide you through the claim process so you don’t leave money on the table.
Toyosi Ogunsola is the Content Manager at Hoel Roofing & Remodeling in Rushville, IN, where she oversees the creation of educational, trustworthy content about roofing, remodeling, and home improvement. With a master’s degree in Emerging Media Design and Development and a background spanning content strategy, UX research, and digital marketing, Toyosi combines data-driven insights with clear, engaging writing to help homeowners make informed decisions. Passionate about translating complex roofing topics into helpful resources, she works closely with Hoel’s team of roofing experts to ensure every piece of content is accurate, practical, and user-focused.
