What should you do about a leaking roof and an insurance claim?
Short answer. Contain the water and get the leak covered first, then have a roofer find the cause before you call the insurer. If a storm, falling limb or other sudden event caused it, file a claim promptly; if it is an aging pipe boot or worn flashing, a repair paid out of pocket is usually the better move.
Step 1: Protect the house
Buckets, towels, move valuables, and a tarp on the roof if water is coming in steadily. Photograph everything before cleanup. See emergency tarping.
Step 2: Find the cause
Most leaks fall into one of two groups:
- Storm or sudden damage: shingles torn off or creased by wind, hail fractures, a limb puncture, ice forcing water in. Usually covered.
- Maintenance: cracked rubber pipe boots, rusted or loose flashing, failed caulk, nail pops, clogged valleys, an old roof that is simply worn out. Usually not covered, though sudden interior damage may be.
A roofer can usually tell which within one visit, with photos.
Step 3: Decide whether to file
- If the cause is a storm and the damage is well above your deductible, file now. Delays can turn a covered sudden loss into an excluded long term leak.
- If the cause is maintenance, a claim is likely to be denied, and some insurers record the report anyway. Fix it and keep the receipt.
- If you are unsure, get the inspection first. See call the insurer or a roofer first?
Step 4: File and follow through
Give the date, the cause and photos. Be home for the adjuster. Keep a log of calls and every receipt for emergency work. If you are worried about the effect on your premium, read whether a roof claim raises premiums in Georgia.