Is Insurance Covering Your Roof Repair? What Illinois Homeowners Must Know in 2025

Key Takeaways:

1. Your homeowner's insurance policy usually pays for storm damage, hail damage, and wind damage, but not wear and tear or lack of maintenance.
2. Actual cash value pays less for older roofs, while replacement cost covers full repairs (minus deductible). Check your policy to see what you have.
3. Document damage, report it fast, and wait for the insurance adjuster before making repairs. Skipping steps could mean a denied claim.
4. If your insurance company says no, ask why. A roofing contractor or public adjuster can help appeal.
5. Stricter building codes, higher deductibles for storm damage, and rising roofing materials costs mean you should review your insurance coverage now.

Let’s be real—nobody wants to deal with a damaged roof. But when storm damage, hail damage, or wind damage hits, you need to know if your homeowner's insurance policy has your back. The tricky part? Not all insurance policies are the same, and what’s covered in 2025 might surprise you.

If you’re in Illinois and wondering whether your insurance provider will pay for roof repair or even a full roof replacement, this guide breaks it all down in simple terms. We’ll cover what kind of roof damage is usually covered, how the insurance process works, and what you can do to make sure your claim gets approved.

What Kind of Roof Damage Does Insurance Cover?

Most homeowners' insurance policies cover damage caused by unexpected events like storms, hail, or falling trees. But here’s the catch—insurance coverage depends on why your roof got damaged.

For example, if a nasty storm tears off shingles, your insurance company will likely cover the repair costs. The same goes for hail damage—those little ice balls can wreck your roof, and insurance usually steps in. But if the damage happened because of lack of maintenance, like old, worn-out shingles giving up, don’t expect your insurance provider to pay up.

Pro tip: Regular inspections and regular maintenance can save you from claim denials. Insurance loves a well-kept roof!

Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost: What’s the Difference?

This is where things get a little confusing. When you file a roof insurance claim, your insurance adjuster will decide how much to pay based on two things:

• Actual Cash Value (ACV): This is what your roof is worth after depreciation. If your roof is 10 years old, you’ll get way less than what a new one costs.
• Replacement Cost: This covers the full cost of repairs or a new roof, minus your deductible.

Most homeowner's policies start with ACV, but some let you upgrade to replacement cost coverage. If you’re not sure what your policy includes, ask your insurance agent.

How to File a Roof Insurance Claim (The Right Way)

Filing a claim isn’t as simple as calling your homeowner's insurance company and saying, “Hey, my roof’s messed up.” There’s a process, and missing a step could mean a denied claim. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Check for Damage First – After a storm, look for missing shingles, leaks, or dents. If you’re not comfortable climbing up there, a roofing contractor can do an inspection.
2. Document Everything – Take pictures and videos of the damage. The more proof you have, the better.
3. Call Your Insurance Provider – Report the damage ASAP. They’ll send an insurance adjuster to check it out.
4. Get a Professional Inspection – Sometimes, adjusters miss things. A roofing company like ours can give you a second opinion.
5. Review the Offer – If the insurance company lowballs you, you can negotiate or even hire a public adjuster to fight for a fair payout.

Remember: Don’t start repairs before the adjuster sees the damage. Otherwise, your claim could be denied.

Common Reasons Insurance Denies Roof Claims

Even if you do everything right, your insurance claims might still get rejected. Here’s why:

• Old Roof – If your roof is near the end of its lifespan, insurance might say it’s just wear and tear.
• Poor Maintenance – Missing shingles from neglect? That’s on you, not the insurance provider.
• Wrong Policy – Some homeowner's policies don’t cover certain types of roof damage, like flood damage (that’s a separate policy).
• Late Reporting – Waiting too long to file can make insurers suspicious.

If your claim gets denied, don’t panic. Ask for a detailed explanation and see if a roofing contractor can help you appeal.

What Illinois Homeowners Should Watch for in 2025

Insurance rules change, and 2025 is no exception. Here’s what might affect your roof coverage:

• Stricter Building Codes – If your roof doesn’t meet new building codes, insurance might require upgrades before covering repairs.
• More Storm Claims – With extreme weather on the rise, some insurance companies are raising deductibles for storm damage.
• Higher Material Costs – Roofing materials aren’t getting cheaper, so make sure your replacement cost coverage is up to date.

When Should You Call a Roofing Pro?

If you’re dealing with roof leaks, missing shingles, or any other damage, don’t wait. The longer you ignore it, the worse (and more expensive) it gets. A good roofing company can help you:

• Assess the damage
• Work with your insurance adjuster.
• Get repairs done right.

At Advanced Roofing Inc., we’ve helped countless Illinois homeowners navigate roof insurance claims. Whether it’s hail damage, wind damage, or just time for a roof replacement, we’ll make sure you get the best outcome with your insurance coverage.

Need Help With Your Roof? We've Got You Covered!

Dealing with roof damage and insurance claims can be stressful, but knowing how the system works makes a huge difference. Check your homeowner's insurance policy, keep up with regular maintenance, and don’t hesitate to call a roofing contractor if something seems off.

And hey, if you’re in Illinois and need help with a roof repair or roof replacement, we’ve got your back. Give us a shout, and we’ll make sure your roof—and your insurance claim—are handled the right way.

Ready to see if your insurance company will cover your roof repairs? Contact Advanced Roofing Inc today for a free inspection!