Home Insurance and Roof Replacement
Your guide to roof replacement and home insurance
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Freelance writer
Is roof replacement covered under home insurance?
Yes and no. Roof replacement can be covered by your home insurance if it was damaged due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. However, if at the end of a normal roof lifespan, wear and tear has forced you to replace a new roof, you will not have coverage for that, as it is considered normal maintenance of the home, which is the responsibility of the homeowner.
How does roof replacement insurance coverage work?
One of the first steps for most insurance coverage, roofs included, is to contact your insurance representative and familiarize yourself with your policy in Canada.
Some policies only cover roof damage up to a certain age. Roofs that are 10 years old or newer can receive full coverage. If it’s older than that, your provider may only cover the depreciated value of the roof depending on the assessment of an expert.
Most coverage in Canada will cover roof damages that may be caused by unpreventable reasons such as fire, storms or vandalism.
How to maintain a great roof and prevent damage
Because your roof plays such an important role in the life of your home, proper maintenance and repair is a must for homeowners who want to retain value and reduce or eliminate any damage to their home.
The type of roof materials you use will also help mitigate risks to your home.
Slate and tile are fairly fire-resistant and provide good insulation. There is little maintenance required with slate and tile roofs, and they are also resistant to rotting and insects. Asphalt shingles, which are a very common material, are affordable and have a fairly long life span (15 to 20 years).
Other factors to consider:
- Trim trees so they don’t rub against or damage roofs
- Clean out gutters regularly
- Leave roof vents open to allow for ventilation
Joel Kranc, Freelance writer
Joel Kranc is a freelance writer and content provider who has worked with RATESDOTCA since 2019. He holds an MA in political science from the University of Toronto and a film certificate from New York University.
He has been published in and worked for such companies as CNN, Rogers Media, Institutional Investor Magazine, The Globe and Mail, Infrastructure Investor, BenefitsPRO Magazine, Global Finance Magazine, With Intelligence, the CPP Investment Board, Hospitals of Ontario Pension Plan, and many more financial services and industry publications.
He is the author of "Retirement Planning in 8 Easy Steps," which, when released in 2015, was No. 11 on the Publisher's Weekly US Bestseller List for Business and Finance, beating out Mark Cuban's "How to Win at the Sport of Business."
Frequently asked questions about roof replacement
How much of the roof replacement cost will my home insurance cover?
This depends on your policy specifications, the age of the roof and the extent of the damage. Make sure to talk to your insurance provider for details.
How do I start a claim?
Start the claim process as soon as you are aware of damages. If possible, document the condition and talk to your insurance provider. Also, make temporary repairs if needed.
Does home insurance cover general wear and tear of my roof?
No. As roofs age they will require regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. But this is considered general maintenance and would not be part of home insurance coverage.
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