Does home insurance cover roof leaks?
Most homeowners assume roof damage is always covered by insurance. It's not. Whether your home insurance covers roof leaks depends on the cause, your roof type, and your policy terms.
Roof cover isn't sold separately. It sits within buildings insurance, which protects the structure against sudden, unforeseen events like storm damage, fire, or falling trees. The key test: was the damage sudden and accidental, or the result of general wear?
rivr's high-value home insurance includes all-risks buildings cover as standard. Roof damage caused by insured events is covered unless specifically excluded.
This guide explains what's covered, what's not, and how to make a successful claim.
What does roof insurance cover?
Roof insurance isn't a standalone policy. Cover for roof damage sits within your buildings insurance.
Most home insurance policies cover roof repairs if damage results from a covered event:
Storms and high winds: Severe weather conditions can dislodge tiles, damage flashing, or cause structural damage. Storm damage is one of the most common reasons for a successful claim.
Heavy rain or hail: Sudden downpours that cause immediate damage are covered. Persistent wet weather that reveals existing defects is not.
Falling trees and branches: Trees, large branches, or falling debris from nearby trees can hit your roof and cause immediate damage.
Fire or lightning strikes: These can destroy roof timbers and tiles, leading to a roof leak.
Vandalism or attempted theft: Criminal damage is covered if you report it to the police.
Your insurance company will cover roof leaks when the cause is sudden and accidental. The claim can include roof repairs and internal water damage, subject to your excess and rebuild limit.
What's not covered
Leaks caused by wear and tear, ageing materials, poor maintenance, poor workmanship, or existing faults are excluded. If your roof starts leaking because an issue has been building for months, most insurers won't class it as an insured event.
Specialist roofs may need tailored cover or stricter maintenance requirements.
Does the type of roof affect my home insurance claim?
Yes. Your roof type affects your insurance coverage, premiums, and claim outcomes. It also affects what your insurance provider asks for during the claims process.
Flat roof
A flat roof carries higher leak risk. Some insurers impose restrictions or higher excesses for properties where flat roofs cover a significant percentage of the structure. You must maintain your roof in good condition. Failure to do so may result in claim rejection.
Thatched roof
Thatched roofs need specialist insurance due to fire risk and maintenance demands. Standard policies often exclude them. Premiums are higher, reflecting increased repair costs and specialist materials.
Standard and non-standard roofs
Standard roof tiles and slates are usually covered. Unusual materials may require specialist underwriting.
Many policies limit cover for flat, thatched, or unusual roofs. Check your policy documents before you buy.
Will home insurance cover damage to contents as well as the repair of the roof?
Sometimes. If a leaking roof causes damage to your belongings, contents insurance may cover repair or replacement costs.
Coverage depends on whether the leak resulted from an insured event. If storm damage causes a roof leak, contents insurance can cover water damage to your possessions, and buildings insurance covers the roof repairs. If the insurer determines the cause was wear and tear or an existing defect, they may decline both claims.
If your roof starts leaking, act quickly to prevent further damage. Place buckets to collect dripping water, move valuables away from the affected area, and use tarps only if safe. If in doubt, seek professional help.
Will home insurance cover a leaking roof if I live in a flat?
Coverage depends on whether you own or rent, and who maintains the property.
If you're renting
It's the landlord's responsibility to maintain the roof structure and arrange buildings insurance. Your landlord's cover won't protect your belongings. If a leaky roof damages your possessions, you may claim on your own contents insurance, provided the cause is covered.
If you own the flat
You (or your freeholder) arrange buildings insurance, which includes roof cover. In some cases, the freeholder arranges a combined policy for the whole building. Check what your home insurance policy covers to confirm who claims and what's included.
Types of roof repairs
Damage from sudden, unexpected events is typically covered by home insurance. Common repairs include:
- Replacing missing or broken roof tiles or slates
- Fixing leaks and sealing gaps (resealing flashing or replacing damaged sections)
- Repairing or replacing roof timbers after structural damage
- Addressing underlying structural damage (reinforcing the structure in severe cases)
- Treating or preventing mould and damp after water ingress
How much does roof insurance cost?
Roof insurance is included in your buildings insurance cost. Price depends on rebuild cost, location, property age, and roof type. Specialist roofs like flat roofs or thatched roofs often cost more to insure.
How to find a roof leak
Spotting a leak early limits further damage and simplifies the claims process. Look for:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Dripping water inside the house
- Mould or damp patches
- Missing or broken tiles
- Sagging roof timbers
If you notice these signs, your roof may be leaking even if you can't see the entry point. Act quickly and seek professional assistance if unsure.
How do I prevent leaks?
Prevention is always better than cure. Consistent checks and quick action are the homeowner's responsibility.
Regular maintenance and inspections: Check your roof at least once a year and after severe weather. This prevents costly repairs.
Clear gutters and check for missing tiles: Blocked gutters cause water to back up under roof coverings.
Fix minor repairs promptly: Small issues become expensive problems if ignored.
Keep maintenance records: Documentation supports a future home insurance claim.
Trim nearby trees where safe: This reduces the risk of falling trees, branches, and falling debris causing damage.
How to make a roof damage claim
Thorough documentation improves your chances. Your insurance company expects clear evidence. A complete claim package helps avoid delays and disputes.
1. Contact your insurer promptly
Report damage as soon as you notice it. Some policies set time limits. Prompt reporting is always safest. Have your policy number ready. Describe what happened in detail to your insurance provider.
2. Document the damage
Provide high-resolution photos and videos showing the damage and surrounding context. Include close-ups of tiles, flashing, and any internal water damage.
3. Gather supporting evidence
Collect weather reports or news coverage confirming storm conditions at the time. If witnesses saw the damage occur, ask for brief statements. This helps if the cause is disputed during the insurance claim process.
4. Get a professional inspection report
Arrange for a professional roofer or surveyor to inspect the damage and provide a written report with recommended repairs and estimated cost. Choose contractors registered with recognized trade bodies like the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC). This provides professional assistance and strengthens your claim.
5. Prepare for assessment
Your insurer may send a loss adjuster to inspect the damage and verify your claim. You can also appoint a loss assessor if you want independent support presenting your case. Unlike a loss adjuster (who works for the insurer), a loss assessor works for you.
6. Record emergency repairs
If you do emergency work to prevent further damage, keep receipts and take before-and-after photos. Inform your insurance company first where possible. Avoid major repairs until they've confirmed next steps in the claims process.
7. Submit a complete claim package
Send photos, videos, weather evidence, inspection reports, receipts, and maintenance history. Completeness improves your chance of a successful claim.
UK climate and seasonal risks
The UK's weather conditions are unpredictable. Frequent storms, heavy rain, and high winds increase roof leak risk throughout the year.
Common storm types and flood risk
- Storm damage: The UK experiences regular named storms, especially in autumn and winter. Recent examples include Storm Eunice (2022), Éowyn (early 2025), Darragh (late 2024). These cause missing tiles, structural damage, and leaks.
- Wind and rain: Many roofs handle typical conditions, but older roofs or those with existing weaknesses fail during prolonged exposure to high winds. Strong gusts lift tiles, loosen flashing, and allow water ingress, especially when heavy rain follows.
- Flood risk: Flood cover is often included in UK home insurance, but higher-risk areas may face higher premiums, excesses, or restrictions. Fhelps many homes access affordable flood insurance, though not every property qualifies. For example, homes built after 1 January 2009 are excluded.
Read our article on whether home insurance covers storm damage.
Seasonal risks to roofs
- Autumn: Heavy rainfall and strong winds make autumn peak season for storm-related roof damage. Leaves and debris clog gutters, increasing leak risk.
- Winter: Snow and ice cause damage. Ice dams block drainage and force water under coverings. Freeze-thaw cycles worsen cracks and existing weaknesses.
- Spring: Lingering storms expose vulnerabilities. Spring is the best time for repairs after winter damage.
- Summer: Prolonged heat degrades materials, making them vulnerable when autumn storms arrive.
Staying aware of these risks and maintaining your roof year-round helps prevent leaks and reduce insurance claims.
Case study: Rejected claim due to conflicting reports
This example reflects real UK claim outcomes and shows why expert reports matter.
In May 2021, Mr P noticed damage to his flat roof and arranged repairs. In September 2021, further leaks appeared. He contacted a roofing contractor again.
In October 2021, Mr P submitted an insurance claim, attributing the damage to a September storm.
The roofing contractor provided a letter stating the damage resulted from inadequate insulation, not storm damage. The insurer requested a surveyor's report, which suggested possible external damage from a storm.
A third report confirmed the original assessment: the damage was not storm-related but resulted from wear and tear, defective materials, or poor workmanship. All were policy exclusions.
The insurer rejected the claim. The Financial Ombudsman upheld this decision.
Checklist: Roof maintenance and claim preparation
This checklist is for general guidance only. We recommend consulting a professional roofer or surveyor for specific advice on your property.
Policy comparison: What do different insurers cover?
A combined policy can offer comprehensive protection for both your home and its contents, ensuring all key points are covered.
In summary
Most home insurance policies cover roof leaks when the cause is sudden and unexpected. They don't typically cover damage from general wear, wear and tear, or neglect. Maintaining your roof in good condition is the homeowner's responsibility.
Check exclusions carefully, especially for flat or thatched roofs. If you need to claim, clear documentation and understanding the claims process make all the difference.
Protect your roof with rivr
We offer high-value home insurance with flexible coverage. Select the level of protection that suits your needs.
Our all-risks buildings insurance covers your home's full structure, including the roof. rivr can provide cover for homes with flat, thatched, or other non-standard roof types. Speak to our team for details.
You benefit from a UK-based specialist claims team, transparent policy terms, and support when you need it.
Speak to our team for specialist cover that reflects the true value and character of your home.
Read more
Frequently asked questions
Sometimes. If snow or ice causes sudden, identifiable damage (for example, tiles dislodged or a structural failure) and your policy covers that peril, it may be covered. But gradual deterioration and maintenance issues are commonly excluded; check your policy wording.
Your landlord is responsible for the building, including the roof. Their insurance won’t cover your belongings, that’s what your contents insurance is for. If a leak damages your possessions, you can claim under your own policy.
Photos of the damaged roof and surrounding areas, Proof of regular maintenance, Inspection reports from a professional roofer, Details about the incident (e.g. date, weather conditions). Our team supports you through the claims process, helping you submit the right evidence and avoid unnecessary delays.
Contact your insurer immediately and provide as much detail as possible about the leak and its cause. Take photos, gather any relevant weather reports, and keep records of previous maintenance. If your flat roof is covered by your policy, your insurer will guide you through the next steps. Specialist insurance may be required for flat roofs.
Yes, if storm damage causes the leak, rivr's buildings insurance covers the roof repair and resulting internal damage.
Storm and severe weather cover is included as standard, as long as the damage is sudden and the roof's been properly maintained. Leaks from wear and tear, ageing materials, or poor maintenance aren't covered.
Check your policy wording and take photos of the damage before you claim.
