Does homeowner insurance cover leaky roof?

Answer 1

It just depends on why the roof is leaking. If the roof is leaking due to damage from a covered peril then it is covered. Home Insurance policies cover damage resulting from Sudden Accidental loss, typical perils are Fire, Wind, Hail falling objects etc.

If the roof is just old and has begun leaking then it is not covered. This would be considered a maintenance issue that the home owner is responsible for. Home Insurance policies do not provide funding for the homes normal and expected maintenance costs

All Homes occasionally need a new roof, usually about every 20 years just as your car might need new tires after twenty thousand miles. It's just maintenance.

AnswerYes... and No! Where water damage is concerned, there is not always a black and white answer.

The most commonly used homeowners policy form is called a Homeowners Form 2 (HO-2). The second most common form is the HO-1. Each of these policies has sections called "Conditions" and "Exclusions" that amend when/if a particular "peril" is covered.

The HO-3 policy form covers "sudden and accidental" water damage. A leaky roof that has suddenly started leaking as a result of a wind or hailstorm is almost certainly covered.

A preexisting leak that is the result of previous damage or worn out roofs are not covered.