What Is Covered by Insurance After Roof Damage?

Roof damage can happen suddenly after a storm, hail, or high winds, leaving homeowners worried about repair costs. One of the first questions many Pennsylvania homeowners ask is, “Will my insurance cover this?” The answer depends on the type of damage, the age of your roof, and your specific policy. Understanding what is covered by insurance after roof damage can help you act quickly and avoid costly mistakes.

Storm and Wind Damage

Most homeowner insurance policies cover storm-related damage, including high winds, fallen tree branches, and flying debris. If shingles are blown off during a storm or your roof is punctured by a falling limb, your insurance will often pay for roof repair or roof replacement.

It is important to document the damage as soon as possible. Taking photos and scheduling a professional roof inspection helps build a stronger insurance claim.

Hail Damage

In Pennsylvania, hailstorms can cause significant roof damage, especially to asphalt shingles. Hail damage roof claims are one of the most common types of insurance filings. Insurance usually covers dents, cracks, or granule loss caused by hail, since these issues reduce the lifespan of shingles and may lead to leaks.

If your home has premium roofing products such as Atlas Shingles, which are designed to withstand hail better than standard shingles, you may face less damage and fewer claims over the years.

Water Damage from Leaks

If your roof is damaged by a storm and water leaks into your home, the resulting interior damage is often covered by insurance. This can include damaged ceilings, walls, insulation, and even flooring. However, insurance typically does not cover leaks caused by a lack of maintenance or normal wear and tear.

For example, if a roof leak is the result of neglected gutter maintenance or shingles that have aged beyond their lifespan, insurance companies may deny the claim.

Fire and Vandalism

Roof damage caused by fire, vandalism, or other unexpected events is generally covered by homeowner insurance policies. These types of damage are considered sudden and accidental, which means they fall under standard coverage.

What Insurance Does Not Cover

While insurance can be a big help, there are several situations where roof damage may not be covered:

• Normal wear and tear – Old roofs that have simply reached the end of their lifespan are not covered.

• Neglected maintenance – Ignoring small repairs or failing to schedule regular inspections can void coverage.

• Cosmetic damage – In some cases, minor cosmetic damage from hail may not qualify for coverage if the roof is still functional.

  
  

This is why regular roof inspections are so important. Catching problems early and keeping your roof in good condition can make the difference when filing a claim.

How to File a Roof Damage Insurance Claim

If you suspect roof damage after a storm, follow these steps:

1. Inspect safely – Do not climb on the roof yourself. Instead, look for visible signs like missing shingles or fallen branches from the ground.

2. Document everything – Take clear photos and notes about the damage.

3. Contact your insurance company – Report the damage as soon as possible.

4. Schedule a professional roof inspection – Roofing contractors can provide detailed reports that strengthen your claim.

5. Get repair or replacement estimates – This helps ensure your insurance payout is fair and covers the work needed.

   
   

Working with a trusted roofing contractor can make the claims process smoother and help ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

Final Thoughts

So, what is covered by insurance after roof damage? Most policies cover storm, wind, hail, fire, and vandalism damage, but they do not cover normal wear and tear or neglect. Acting quickly, documenting the damage, and working with professional roofing contractors are the best ways to ensure your claim is successful.

If your home in Westmoreland City, Greensburg, or Irwin has roof damage, call 724-515-5551 today or fill out the online form to schedule a professional roof inspection with Gerken Roofing. Our experienced team will assess the damage, provide detailed documentation, and guide you through the insurance process so you can restore your roof with confidence.