Your roof is a critical shield for your home, especially with Canada’s diverse and often harsh weather. Knowing what your home insurance covers when it comes to roof damage can save you from unexpected and significant repair costs. Let’s break down common roof insurance claims in Canada and what’s typically included in your coverage.
Common Roof Insurance Claims in Canada
Here’s a quick overview of the five most frequent roof insurance claims we see in Canada:
- Storm Damage: This often includes damage from high winds, hail storms (common across the prairies and parts of Ontario), and falling trees – but generally excludes damage resulting from neglect or roofs simply reaching the end of their lifespan.
- Fallen Debris: If a sudden impact from debris (like a tree branch in an ice storm or wind storm) damages your roof, repairs and debris removal are usually covered.
- Fire Damage: Coverage typically extends to fire damage, smoke damage, and water damage caused by firefighting efforts. This is crucial in areas prone to wildfires or even house fires started by electrical issues.
- Leaks from Insured Events: Leaks that result from a covered event, like a storm, are generally included. However, slow leaks due to wear and tear are usually not covered. This is especially relevant in regions with freeze-thaw cycles that can weaken roofing materials over time.
- Ice, Snow, or Sleet Damage: Sudden structural damage from heavy snow loads or ice buildup is often covered. However, insurance usually won’t cover damage from gradual snow accumulation or ice damming if it’s considered a maintenance issue. This is particularly important in provinces with heavy snowfall like Quebec, Newfoundland, and parts of British Columbia.