Can I get a new roof through insurance?
Short answer. Yes, if a covered event such as hail or wind damaged your roof during your policy period and the damage is widespread enough that repair is not reasonable. You cannot get a new roof through insurance simply because the roof is old or leaking from wear.
Signs you may qualify
- A hailstorm hit your area recently and neighbors are getting roofs replaced
- Gutters, downspouts, the mailbox, or air conditioner fins show fresh dents
- Piles of granules at downspout outlets after a storm
- Missing, creased, or lifted shingles after high winds
- New ceiling stains after a storm, on a roof that was not leaking before
Signs you probably will not
- The roof is simply old, with curling, cracking, or bald spots
- Leaks around a pipe boot or chimney that developed slowly
- No identifiable storm since the last time the roof looked fine
- The storm was longer ago than your policy's reporting window
Things that shrink what insurance pays
- Your deductible, especially a percentage wind and hail deductible
- Actual cash value roof terms or a payment schedule on an older roof; see roof age and insurance
- Cosmetic damage exclusions, mostly on metal roofs
How to find out
Look up hail history for your area on North Georgia Hail Map, then get a professional inspection with photos of each slope. Hail size gives a rough idea of what to expect; see hail size and roof damage. If damage is confirmed, follow the after a hail storm checklist and file promptly. If it is not, the honest answer is a retail replacement when the time comes.