Leaking Roof?

After a Long Winter, Wisconsin Homeowners May Find Roofs are Leaking Due to Ice Dams, Storms – Insurance Will Likely Cover It

MADISON, Wisconsin (February xx, 2015) – After dealing with rounds of snow, cold and melting this winter, homeowners may find themselves with leaky roofs this spring. Many homeowners are confused about whether insurance will cover the repair or replacement of their leaky and/or aging roof.

“Generally speaking, if ice dams, fallen trees or a winter storm damaged your roof causing it to leak, the damage and repairs to that portion of the roof should be covered by your homeowners insurance,” advised name, title, your agency or company. (Add a line to two about your company/agency.)

According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average home insurance claim for water damage and freezing (which ice dams can cause) is $3,098.

While damage from a storm is generally quite obvious, ice dams occur over time making damage more difficult to spot.

“If you notice staining on your ceilings or walls, or water coming through outlets or draining in the wrong places, contact your local independent insurance agent immediately. They will send someone to assess the damage and give you advice on your options,” noted Lastname.

While your homeowners insurance will cover damage to the affected part of the roof, it may not cover the full replacement of your roof.

In addition, insurance typically does not cover costs for routine roof maintenance or replacement due to age and most likely will not cover personal property inside the home that is damaged by leaking water.

However, it’s important to remember that all insurance companies cover the roof and exterior property damage differently. The easiest way to know what’s covered or what’s not, is to contact your professional, independent insurance provider.

“Coverage will often depend on the age of your roof, the area you live in, and many other factors, so it’s important to know the specifics of your policy,” noted Lastname.

For more information on insurance considerations when you travel, contact us. (You may want to add a phone number or email here.)

Your (company name) is a proud member of the Professional Insurance Agents of Wisconsin. For more information visit www.PIAW.org.