Will Insurance Cover My Roof’s Storm Damage?

A strong storm can leave more than puddles in your yard—it can cause major roof damage that threatens your home’s safety and value. When shingles are missing, flashing is bent, or water seeps inside, many homeowners turn to their insurance provider for answers. But roof insurance coverage isn’t always straightforward.

Understanding when storm damage is covered, what factors insurers consider, and how to file a claim can help you navigate the process quickly and with less stress. This guide explains what homeowners need to know about roof repair, storm damage, and insurance coverage.

What Type of Roof Storm Damage Is Covered by Insurance?

Most standard homeowners' insurance policies cover roof damage caused by sudden, accidental events, not gradual wear or lack of maintenance. Covered storm-related causes typically include:

• Wind Damage: Shingles torn off or lifted by high winds
• Hail Damage: Bruised, cracked, or dented roofing materials
• Falling Debris: Tree limbs or other debris puncturing the roof
• Ice or Snow Collapse: Heavy snow loads or structural failure
• Lightning Strikes: Resulting in fire or structural damage

Insurance may cover roof repair or replacement if damage can be traced back to a single event, like a thunderstorm, windstorm, or snowstorm. It's a good idea to keep track of the date and time the storm occurred to add to your insurance claim report. Your provider will likely look up weather reports to confirm, so having those dates in mind can only help your report.

What Won’t Insurance Cover?

While storm damage is often covered, policies usually exclude damage from age, neglect, or improper installation. Common exclusions include:

• Old Roof Materials: Coverage may be denied if the roof is beyond its expected lifespan
• Pre-Existing Issues: Damage that existed before the storm or wasn’t reported in time
• Improper Maintenance: Clogged gutters, worn sealants, or flashing issues left unaddressed
• Manufacturer Defects: Issues related to product failure, not weather conditions

Coverage may be reduced or denied if the insurer believes the roof was already compromised before the storm.

Signs of Storm Damage Worth Reporting

Not all storm damage is visible from the ground. Even if there’s no active leak, your roof may still be affected. After any severe weather event, look for these signs:

• Missing Shingles: Obvious gaps or shingles found in your yard
• Bruised or Dented Shingles: Especially from hail impact
• Water Stains: New discoloration on ceilings or attic insulation
• Debris on the Roof: Branches or objects that may have caused damage
• Granule Loss: Large amounts of shingle granules in gutters or downspouts

Even minor damage can turn into larger problems over time. A professional inspection can confirm the extent and cause.

How Roof Age Impacts Insurance Claims

The age of your roof plays a major role in what insurance will pay. If your roof is relatively new, under 10 to 15 years, it’s more likely to be fully covered under replacement cost value (RCV). This means your insurer pays to replace the roof with materials of a similar kind and quality.

Older roofs may only be covered under actual cash value (ACV), which subtracts depreciation based on age and condition. In some cases, insurers may exclude older roofs from coverage entirely or require a higher deductible.

Review the terms or speak with your agent if you’re unsure how your policy treats roof age.

Steps to Take After Storm Damage Occurs

Taking the right steps quickly after storm damage can protect your claim and reduce out-of-pocket costs. Here’s what to do:

• Document the Damage: Take clear photos of visible damage on the roof, inside the attic, and in living spaces
• Prevent Further Issues: Place tarps or buckets under leaks, and avoid walking on the roof
• Schedule a Roof Inspection: A roofing professional can provide an expert assessment
• Contact Your Insurance Provider: File a claim as soon as possible and keep a record of all communications
• Submit Supporting Documentation: Include repair estimates, inspection reports, and photos

Working with an experienced roofing company can help you navigate what insurers require and ensure accurate documentation.

The Role of Roofing Professionals in the Claims Process

Roofing companies that regularly handle storm damage are often familiar with insurance claims and can support homeowners through every step. Their involvement may include:

• Providing inspection reports to validate the source of damage
• Recommending repair versus replacement based on policy coverage
• Coordinating with adjusters during on-site evaluations
• Offering detailed estimates that align with insurance guidelines

In many cases, involving a roofing professional early can help prevent denied claims and ensure the roof is restored correctly.

When a Roof Repair Becomes a Roof Replacement

Minor storm damage may only require roof repair, such as replacing a few shingles or resealing flashing. But in more severe cases, especially with widespread shingle loss or structural damage, a full roof replacement may be necessary.

Insurance adjusters will consider:

• The percentage of the roof affected
• The cost of repair versus full replacement
• Compliance with current building codes

The insurer may approve a full roof replacement if repairs won’t bring the roof up to current standards or restore long-term integrity.

Avoid Claim Delays With a Trusted Roofing Team

One of the most common reasons for claim delays is a lack of documentation or unclear inspection results. Working with a roofing company that knows what insurance providers require helps streamline the process and reduce errors.

Make sure the team you choose:

• Has experience with storm damage claims
• Offers thorough written assessments
• Can meet with the adjuster during inspections
• Understands state-specific building codes and regulations

A trusted partner ensures both the roof and the paperwork are handled correctly.

Need Help With Roof Storm Damage? 

Storms don’t wait, and neither should your response. If high winds, hail, or heavy rain have left your roof damaged, our team can help. Sherriff Goslin Roofing provides professional roof repair backed by decades of experience working with insurance companies.

We inspect, document, and recommend the best course of action—repair or replacement—based on the damage and your policy. With services available throughout Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, or Florida, we’re ready to act fast and restore your roof the right way.

Schedule a Free Roof Inspection Today

Don’t guess what insurance may or may not cover—know for sure. 

Contact Sherriff Goslin to get an inspection, request a quote, and take the first step toward restoring your roof after storm damage.