Spring Roof Inspection Alert

Spring is when insurers and home-maintenance guides tell homeowners to check roofs, gutters, and drainage before winter damage turns into interior leaks. (iii.org) (allstate.com) The Insurance Information Institute says water damage and freezing made up 22.6% of homeowners insurance losses in 2023, while wind and hail made up 42.5%. Property damage overall accounted for 97.3% of homeowners claims that year. (iii.org) Allstate’s January 2025 spring checklist tells homeowners to start with the roof, then clear gutters and downspouts and make sure water is directed away from the house. It also says to check the attic for leaks or moisture and have a professional inspect suspicious shingles. (allstate.com) The timing is practical: winter freeze-thaw cycles can crack gutters, loosen shingles, and clog drainage paths, and spring rain tests those weak spots first. The Insurance Information Institute says even a small roof leak can spread water damage, mold, and mildew into ceilings, walls, and contents. (allstate.com) (iii.org) Coverage can also hinge on what caused the damage. The Insurance Information Institute says homeowners policies typically cover roof damage from covered perils such as wind, hail, or falling trees, while an old or poorly maintained roof can affect how insurers assess risk and coverage. (iii.org) For older homes, roof age matters fast. The Insurance Information Institute says most insurers require an inspection when a roof is more than 20 years old, and some carriers may limit payouts to actual cash value instead of replacement cost. (iii.org) If damage is already visible, insurers tell homeowners to move quickly and document it. State Farm says to report roof claims as soon as possible, and Travelers says owners should take temporary steps such as tarping a damaged roof and saving repair receipts to prevent further loss. (statefarm.com) (travelers.com) State Farm also says homeowners should compare bids and choose an established, licensed or bonded roofer where required. Its roof-claims guide warns against accepting a bid that is substantially lower than competing estimates. (statefarm.com) The cheapest spring inspection is usually the one that finds a loose shingle, clogged downspout, or damp attic before the next hard rain does. Insurers’ advice is less about seasonal cleaning than about stopping a covered loss from turning into a larger uncovered dispute. (allstate.com) (travelers.com)