Insurance Won’t Cover These Roof Issues—Are You at Risk?

Think Your Roof Is Covered? Think Again.

Most homeowners assume their roof is fully protected under their insurance policy. But did you know that many claims get denied—leaving homeowners stuck with expensive repairs? If you haven’t read the fine print, your insurance company could refuse to pay for your roof damage.

Before the next storm hits, make sure you’re not on the hook for these 5 common roof problems insurance won’t cover!

Wear and tear on a residential asphalt shingle roof.

1. Aging & Normal Wear and Tear

🏚 Your roof won’t last forever. If it’s reaching 15-20 years old, your insurance company may deny coverage entirely—even if you experience leaks or damage. Insurers expect homeowners to replace an old roof before it becomes a problem.

🔎 What to do: Check your policy! If your roof is over 15 years old, get an inspection to see if it qualifies for coverage before it’s too late.

Roofing nail gun on residential roof ridge.

2. Improper Installation or Poor Maintenance

🛑 Was your roof installed correctly? If there were shortcuts, mistakes, or cheap materials used, your insurance company might reject your claim. They expect you to hire licensed professionals and perform regular maintenance.

🔎 What to do: Have a professional inspect your roof before issues arise. Small problems today could cost you thousands later.

Loose residential asphalt shingle

3. Pre-Existing Damage or Neglect

⚠️ If your roof was already damaged before a storm, insurance won’t pay for it. They consider existing leaks, missing shingles, and weak spots as “neglect.”

💰 Translation? You’re stuck paying out-of-pocket.

🔎 What to do: Don’t wait for a disaster. Fix small issues now before they turn into expensive repairs that insurance won’t cover.

Hornet under asphalt roofing shingle.

4. Damage Caused by Animals or Pests

🐿️ Squirrels, raccoons, birds, and termites can wreak havoc on your roof—ripping up shingles, chewing through wood, and creating leaks. But here’s the bad news: insurance won’t cover animal damage because it’s considered a home maintenance issue.

🔎 What to do: If you suspect pests in your attic or roof, act fast! The longer you wait, the worse the damage (and the higher the bill).

Giant hale found on asphalt roof.

5. Certain Types of Storm Damage

⛈ Think all storm damage is covered? Think again. Some policies exclude hail, wind, or hurricanes, especially in high-risk states. If you live in an area prone to extreme weather, your roof might not be covered at all—unless you have a special rider on your policy.

🔎 What to do: Review your policy for exclusions, and get a professional roof inspection to document the condition of your roof before the next storm hits.

Man on ladder providing free roof inspection.

How to Protect Yourself (and Your Wallet!)

Insurance companies look for any excuse not to pay out. That’s why proactive homeowners get their roof inspected before problems arise.

Want to know if your roof is at risk? Get a free, no-obligation roof inspection and find out if you qualify for coverage before it’s too late!

🔎 Click below to get your free inspection today.

Frank Healy

Frank graduated from ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business. In addition to being a proud alum, Frank has also been named an ASU Sun Devil 100 award recipient four times in recent years.

Outside the office, Frank enjoys exploring new places — whether it’s backpacking challenging terrain or kicking back on a relaxing beach in Mexico.

Previous
Previous

The ‘Walk-In Shower Trend’ That’s Changing How Seniors Bathe

Next
Next

5 Best Hot Climate Roofing Materials