Does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks from ice dams?
How an ice dam forms
Heat escaping from the living space warms the roof deck and melts snow on the upper roof. The meltwater runs down to the cold overhang, refreezes, and builds a ridge of ice along the eaves. More meltwater pools behind it and backs up under the shingles, where it drips through the decking into walls and ceilings. Shingles shed running water well, but they are not designed to hold back standing water.
How rare is it in Georgia?
Ice dams need several days of snow cover and freezing temperatures, so they are uncommon in metro Atlanta but do happen in the North Georgia mountains and after unusual cold spells. Many homes here have little or no ice barrier membrane at the eaves, which makes the occasional dam more likely to leak.
What a claim typically pays
- Interior repairs: drywall, insulation, paint, flooring and damaged contents.
- Reasonable emergency measures to prevent further damage, which some policies cover as reasonable repairs.
- Usually not: adding attic insulation, sealing air leaks, improving ventilation, or upgrading the eave underlayment.
What to do
Do not chip at the ice. Calcium chloride in a sock laid across the dam can melt a channel. Document the ice, the interior damage and the dates, then report the claim. When the roof is replaced, ask about adding ice barrier at the eaves. See interior water damage coverage and Robust Roofing's guide to ice dams in North Georgia.