This is one of the most common questions we hear from Pennsylvania homeowners after a storm. The short answer: it depends on what caused the damageand the specific terms of your policy. Here's the full breakdown.
The Most Important Thing Homeowners Miss
Even if your claim is approved, insurance companies often lowball the estimate. We review adjuster reports for free - and we have caught underestimated damage on over 80% of the claims we have reviewed.
What Pennsylvania Policies Typically Cover
Most Pennsylvania homeowners insurance policies cover replacement cost for roof damage caused by:
- Hailstorms - Pennsylvania is one of the top hail states in the Mid-Atlantic
- Wind damage - including hurricane and tornado remnants
- Falling trees and limbs
- Fire and lightning
- Vandalism and theft
What's Usually NOT Covered
Standard policies generally do NOT cover:
- Wear and tear - If your 25-year-old roof is simply aging out, that is maintenance, not an insurable event
- Neglect - Failure to maintain your roof can void coverage
- Flood damage - Separate flood insurance required
- Earthquake damage - Requires a separate rider in most cases
Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost
Replacement Cost (RCV) pays to rebuild your roof to current code standards, minus your deductible. This is what you want.
Actual Cash Value (ACV) pays current value (replacement cost minus depreciation). If your 15-year-old roof has depreciated 50%, you only get 50% of replacement cost minus deductible.
The Deductible Rule in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law requires insurers to offer a minimum $500 deductible for roof claims. Know your deductible before you file - it comes off the top of every claim.
How to File a Roof Claim in PA
- Call your insurance company - Report the damage as soon as possible
- Get a professional inspection- Before the adjuster comes, get your own roofer's assessment. We do free inspections and can meet the adjuster on-site.
- Document everything - Photos from multiple angles, weather records showing the storm date, and receipts for temporary repairs
- Review the estimate carefully - We review estimates for free and can show you what was overlooked
- Get the claim settled - If the estimate is too low, dispute it
Free Claim Review - No Obligation
If you have already received an insurance estimate, we will review it for free and tell you if we think you are being underpaid. No strings attached.
Call (717) 500-1434