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Will homeowners insurance pay for this repair?
What a standard policy usually covers, what it doesn't, and how to file a claim that holds up.
Homeowners insurance is built for sudden, accidental damage, not for things that wear out. Knowing the difference saves you from paying a deductible for nothing, or from missing a claim you could have made.
Usually covered (check your policy)
- Wind and hail damage to the roof and siding
- Water damage from a sudden burst pipe
- Fire and smoke damage
- A tree falling on the house
Usually not covered
- Wear and tear, rot, and old roofs or appliances that simply fail
- Slow leaks that went on for weeks
- Flooding from outside (this needs a separate flood policy)
- Earthquakes, in most standard policies
- Sewer backup, unless you added that coverage
Filing a claim
- Stop further damage if it's safe (shut off water, tarp a roof) and keep receipts.
- Photograph and video everything before cleanup.
- Call your insurer and get a claim number; write down every call.
- Get your own contractor quote to compare with the adjuster's estimate.
- Don't sign over your insurance payment to a contractor (an "assignment of benefits") without understanding it.
General information, not legal, financial or construction advice. Prices and rules vary by state and city. Affordable Home Assistance doesn't take referral fees or payments from any contractor, lender or brand.