How to Claim Insurance for Roof Damage — A Homeowner's Guide

Storm damage, fallen trees, and other sudden events can cause significant damage to your roof. Knowing how to navigate the insurance claims process can save you thousands of pounds and considerable stress. This guide walks you through claiming insurance for roof damage in the UK.

What Roof Damage Is Covered by Insurance?

Typically covered (sudden, unexpected events):

• Storm damage (high winds, heavy rain, hail)
• Damage from falling trees or branches
• Fire damage
• Vandalism or theft
• Impact damage (e.g., debris from a neighbours property)

Typically NOT covered:

• Wear and tear or gradual deterioration
• Damage from lack of maintenance
• Age-related deterioration (roof over 20 years = common argument)
• Damage from DIY gone wrong
• Flooding (unless specific flood coverage added)

Step-by-Step Claims Process

Step 1: Document Everything Immediately

As soon as it's safe, photograph and video all damage. Include wide shots showing the full extent and close-ups of specific problem areas. Date stamps on photos are helpful. If possible, photograph damage inside your property (ceiling stains, water ingress) as well.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurer and Log the Claim

Call your insurance company's claims line as soon as possible. You'll need:

• Your policy number
• Date and cause of damage
• Description of damage
• Photos/videos you've taken
• Contact details for any contractors who've seen the damage

Step 3: Make Temporary Repairs Only

You have a duty to prevent further damage. Emergency temporary repairs like covering with tarpaulin are usually covered. However:

• DO: Cover with tarpaulin, board up broken windows, collect water in buckets
• DON'T: Commit to permanent repairs, replace tiles, or start structural work
• Keep all receipts for temporary materials — these are claimable

Step 4: Get Your Own Quote

While the insurer will arrange their own survey, always get an independent quote from a reputable roofer. This gives you:

• A realistic understanding of repair costs
• Evidence to challenge low offers
• A fallback if you disagree with the insurer's assessment

Step 5: Challenge If the Offer Seems Low

Insurers often initial offer low to see if you'll accept. You have the right to:

• Request a re-survey with a different loss adjuster
• Provide your own quotes as evidence
• Appeal the decision through the insurer's complaints process
• Escalate to the Financial Ombudsman if unresolved

Common Reasons Claims Are Refused

Understanding these helps you avoid common pitfalls:

• Old roof: Roofs over 20 years old often face "wear and tear" arguments
• Lack of maintenance: No records of regular roof inspections or repairs
• Pre-existing damage: Damage that existed before the insured event
• Delays in reporting: Failing to report damage promptly can invalidate claims
• Unapproved repairs: Permanent repairs done before insurer inspection

Emergency Make-Safe vs Full Repair

Understanding the difference is crucial:

Emergency make-safe: The insurer pays for temporary measures to prevent further damage — tarpaulin, boarding, emergency scaffolding. This is almost always covered.

Full repair/replacement: Once the insurer inspects, they'll determine whether to repair, replace, or offer a cash settlement. This is where disputes commonly arise.

Using Your Own Roofer vs Insurer's Contractor

You have legal rights:

• You CAN choose your own contractor
• The insurer should pay the equivalent cost they'd pay their approved contractor
• Get written confirmation of what's covered before proceeding
• Keep copies of all correspondence

If there's a significant difference between quotes, discuss this with your insurer. They may increase their offer rather than lose control of the claim.