When it comes to maintaining your home, few areas are as important as your roof. One often overlooked component is the roof decking, the layer of material that lies between the roof structure and the shingles. The decking plays a crucial role in supporting the roof and protecting the rest of the home from water damage and other structural issues. However, replacing roof decking can be expensive, and many homeowners are left wondering whether their insurance will cover the costs. The good news is that with the right approach, you can increase your chances of getting your insurance company to pay for roof decking replacement.
In this guide, we’ll explore strategies for getting your roof decking covered by insurance, explain what factors affect roof decking replacement cost, and provide actionable insights on navigating the insurance claims process.
What Is Roof Decking and Why Is It Important?
Before diving into how to get insurance to pay for roof decking, it’s essential to understand what roof decking is and why it matters.
The Function of Roof Decking
Roof decking (also called sheathing) is the structural layer between your roof’s framework and the outer roofing material, typically made of plywood or OSB (oriented strand board). It supports the weight of roofing materials like shingles and provides a base for water barriers and insulation. Without solid decking, your roof may sag, develop leaks, or even collapse under the weight of heavy weather conditions.
Does Insurance Cover Roof Decking?
Whether or not your insurance covers roof decking replacement depends on several factors, including the cause of the damage and the specifics of your homeowners insurance policy. In general, standard homeowners insurance policies cover roof damage caused by sudden and accidental events, such as:
- Severe weather (e.g., windstorms, hail, hurricanes)
- Fallen trees or debris
- Fire or lightning
However, damage caused by wear and tear, poor maintenance, or gradual deterioration is typically not covered.
Key Considerations:
- Covered Perils: If your roof decking is damaged due to a covered peril (e.g., a storm or fallen tree), there’s a higher likelihood that your insurance will pay for the decking.
- Roof Age: Some insurance companies have specific age limits on roof coverage. If your roof is too old, they may not cover decking repairs.
- Policy Exclusions: Always check your policy for exclusions. Some policies may not cover certain types of roofing materials or specific damage.
How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Decking
Getting insurance to cover the cost of replacing roof decking requires careful documentation and a proactive approach. Here are the steps to increase your chances of getting a payout.
1. Document the Damage
As soon as you notice any damage to your roof, it’s essential to document everything. Take clear photographs of the affected areas, including:
- Sagging or soft spots on the roof
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Water damage or leaks inside the house
- Signs of rot or mold on the decking
Detailed documentation will help when filing your insurance claim and will serve as evidence to support your case.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately
Don’t wait to contact your insurance company if you suspect damage to your roof decking. The longer you wait, the more likely the insurance company may argue that the damage was due to neglect or poor maintenance. When you file your claim, be sure to mention any specific perils (such as storms or falling debris) that may have caused the damage.
Be prepared to provide:
- Your policy number
- A detailed description of the damage
- Photos and videos of the damage
- Any receipts for temporary repairs (such as tarping the roof)
3. Schedule an Inspection with a Roofing Contractor
While waiting for the insurance adjuster, it’s a good idea to have a licensed roofing contractor inspect your roof and provide an estimate for the repairs, including roof decking replacement cost. This will give you a better idea of what the repairs will entail and how much they might cost.
A professional roofer can also provide insights into the condition of the roof decking, which is often not visible from the outside. If your roofing contractor finds hidden damage to the decking, you’ll need this information to present to your insurance company.
4. Meet with the Insurance Adjuster
The next step is to meet with your insurance claims adjuster. The adjuster will assess the damage and determine how much the insurance company will pay for the repairs. Make sure to:
- Be present during the inspection.
- Point out all areas of damage, including any hidden issues like soft spots or water damage that could indicate decking problems.
- Provide the adjuster with the roofing contractor’s estimate.
If the adjuster doesn’t acknowledge the need for decking replacement, don’t hesitate to push back and request further evaluation.
5. Understand Your Policy’s Fine Print
Many homeowners mistakenly believe their insurance covers all aspects of roof repairs. However, roof decking may not be covered if your policy includes exclusions for certain materials or age limits on roofs. Review your policy carefully to ensure you understand what is covered and what’s excluded.
You may also consider working with a public adjuster who can advocate on your behalf if you feel your claim is being unfairly denied or underpaid. Public adjusters are familiar with insurance policies and can help you negotiate a better settlement.
Public Adjuster Orlando FL can assist you in maximizing your insurance payout for roof decking and other roof-related claims.
Roof Decking Replacement Cost
The cost of replacing roof decking can vary based on several factors, including the size of your roof, the materials used, and the extent of the damage. On average, roof decking replacement can cost anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot. This means that for a typical roof, the cost can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on the size of the project.
Factors That Influence the Cost:
- Material Type: Plywood tends to be more expensive than OSB, but it’s also more durable.
- Extent of Damage: If only part of the decking needs replacing, the cost will be lower than a full replacement.
- Labor Costs: Roofing contractors charge based on the complexity of the project and local labor rates.
- Roof Size and Pitch: Larger or steeper roofs are more expensive to repair.
By understanding the roof decking replacement cost, you can better estimate how much your insurance will cover and what you might have to pay out of pocket.
Common Reasons Insurance Might Deny Roof Decking Claims
Even with proper documentation and following the correct steps, there are still reasons why your insurance company might deny your claim for roof decking. Understanding these reasons can help you avoid common pitfalls.
1. Pre-Existing Damage
If the insurance company determines that the roof decking damage existed before the covered peril (such as a storm), they may deny the claim. Regular roof inspections and maintenance can help prevent this issue.
2. Poor Maintenance
Insurance companies expect homeowners to maintain their roofs. If the damage is due to neglect, your claim might be denied. Be sure to keep records of any roof maintenance or inspections to show that you’ve properly cared for your roof.
3. Roof Age
Some insurance companies may refuse to cover roofs that are beyond a certain age, typically 15 to 20 years. If your roof is older than this, check your policy to see if roof repairs or replacement are covered.
Conclusion: Be Proactive to Get Roof Decking Covered by Insurance
Getting your roof decking covered by insurance isn’t always straightforward, but with the right approach, it’s possible to secure coverage for necessary repairs. The key is to document damage thoroughly, act quickly, and work closely with your insurance company and roofing contractor to make sure no detail is overlooked.
If you run into issues with your claim or need help negotiating a fair settlement, consider working with a public adjuster who can advocate on your behalf. For more information on managing roof-related claims, visit Roof Insurance Claims or find an Insurance Claims Adjuster Near Me.
By staying proactive and understanding your policy, you can protect your home and ensure your roof decking is properly repaired.