Is Roof Replacement Covered by Insurance in Edmonton?

Damage to the roof of a building is distressing, particularly if it happens following a period of heavy hail, strong wind or a sudden leakage. If you’re a homeowner in Edmonton, you probably have this question, too: Is Roof Replacement Covered by Insurance in Edmonton?

The answer is: sometimes. Roof damage from a sudden event that is covered under your home insurance policy may be eligible for repair or replacement. It normally will not pay for the replacement of an old roof, however, when that roof has reached the end of its useful life. 

When Insurance May Cover Roof Replacement

If the damage occurs due to a sudden and unexpected listed event in your policy, replacement may be covered in Edmonton. Financial Consumer Agency of Canada mentions home insurance could help compensate for events like fire, weather, due to winds, ice and hail.

Common reasons for covered causes include: 

• Hail damage
• Windstorm damage
• Fire damage
• Falling tree or branch damage
• Sudden storm-related roof openings
• Water entering because wind or hail damaged the roof first

The Insurance Bureau of Canada further reports that typical home and business policies usually cover damage caused by hail and wind. 

When Roof Replacement Is Usually Not Covered

Insurance is not meant for scheduled maintenance work. Your insurance won’t cover the claim if your roof is already old and falling apart or poorly maintained.

In general, roof replacements will not be covered if caused by one of the following: 

• Normal aging
• Wear and tear
• Poor maintenance
• Pre-existing damage
• Gradual leaks
• Improper installation
• Cosmetic damage only
• Damage from excluded events in your policy

For instance, if the arc of shingles had been present for several years and water was slowly leaking into the attic, the insurance company might categorize it as a maintenance problem when, in reality, it is an insured loss. Generally, Canadian insurance information categorizes between sudden storm damage and damage caused by long term deterioration. 

Find the best Edmonton roofing contractors here!

Why Edmonton Roof Claims Can Be Complicated

Besides the typical roof weathering conditions, Edmonton roofs are under very harsh circumstances such as wind, hail, snow, ice and freeze and thaw. It can be challenging to gauge the extent of fresh storm damage and differentiate it from roof wear.

It’s here when documentation is important. If you can see damage from a storm, make photos as soon as it is safe to do so. Document lost shingles, dents, broken vents, broken flashing, gutter granules, stains inside, or debris around the house. 

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

A crucial aspect is the valuation of the roof in your policy. Some policies may include replacement cost, while others may be in terms of actual cash value, particularly on older roofs.

Replacement cost may be closer to what it would cost to replace the roof, dependent on your deductible and insurance coverage limits. Depreciation may be subtracted from the actual cash value for an older and/or deteriorated roof. This will mean that despite a claim being accepted, the settlement payout may be lower for an older roof.

What to Do Before Filing a Roof Insurance Claim

Always read your policy and understand the deductible before filing a claim. However, the repair may only cover a small portion of the deductible amount, and claims may not always be cost-effective. 

A practical process is:

• Inspect the damage safely from the ground
• Take clear photos and videos
• Prevent further damage where possible
• Contact your insurer promptly
• Ask what documents they require
• Get a professional roof inspection
• Keep receipts for emergency repairs

Final Thoughts

So, is roof replacement covered by insurance in Edmonton? Yes, it can be if the damage is caused by a sudden covered event, like wind, fire, hail, or storm impact. However, an insurance company will typically not provide a payout if a roof is simply old, neglected, or worn out.

Roof maintenance, roof record, quick response after storms and a knowledge of your policy before damage occurs are the best options. A well-documented claim makes you more powerful and less likely to be confused when it is most important. Read more: What ceiling height is luxury?