Does homeowners insurance cover storm damage to the roof, and what should the estimate include?
Short answer. Yes, storm damage to the roof from wind, hail, falling trees or ice is covered under the dwelling part of a homeowners policy, minus your deductible. How much you receive depends heavily on the estimate, so make sure it includes every component a proper replacement or repair needs, not just the shingles.
What a complete storm roof estimate includes
- Tear off of existing layers and disposal
- Underlayment, and ice and water barrier where code or the manufacturer requires it, such as valleys and around penetrations
- Drip edge at eaves and rakes
- Starter strip along eaves and rakes
- Shingles with a waste factor appropriate to the roof's cuts
- Hip and ridge cap
- Ventilation: ridge vent, box vents or turbines
- Pipe boots and other penetration flashings
- Step and counter flashing at walls and chimneys, and kickout flashing
- Decking replacement where boards are damaged or rotted, often as a per sheet allowance
- Steep and high roof charges when pitch or height requires extra safety and labor
- Permit where your city or county requires one
- Overhead and profit when a general contractor is reasonably needed. See overhead and profit.
How to check yours
Most insurers write estimates in Xactimate, so each item appears as a line with a quantity and price. Compare it to your roofer's scope and measurements. See Xactimate explained.
When items are missing
Send a supplement request with photos and measurements showing why each item is needed. Code required items are usually paid under ordinance or law coverage. See supplements.
What is not covered
Wear, rot from long term leaks, and upgrades you choose beyond like kind and quality.