Florida homeowners will often ask a direct question after heavy rain or wind: Does homeowner’s insurance cover roof leaks? Coverage often depends on the cause and policy language. Sudden, accidental damage from wind or hail is usually covered, while long-term wear, neglect, or defective installation is often excluded. Florida law also sets firm timelines and claim duties that can decide outcomes.
Kuhn Raslavich, P.A. legal professionals have decades of experience handling insurance disputes and first-party claims. We can help you read your declarations page, match damage to covered “perils,” and plan a clean claim file from day one. Our team is ready to help you evaluate your next step.
What Florida Policies Usually Cover
Wind-driven water entering through a storm-damaged roof is commonly treated as a covered peril, subject to your deductible and any endorsements. However, flood water from rising groundwater is different. Flooding is not part of a standard homeowners policy; you need separate coverage through a Flood Insurance Policy.
Replacement cost vs. actual cash value is also critical to your claim. Florida law requires insurers to issue at least the actual cash value first, then pay the remaining amounts as repairs proceed, subject to any deductible in your policy. A review with an experienced attorney will include policy forms, endorsements, hurricane or windstorm deductibles, and exclusions for wear and tear or repeated seepage.
Deadlines and Proof You Need Under Florida Law
Prompt notice is critical. Florida law bars late-reported property claims if the initial notice is not given within one year of the date of loss; supplemental claims must be reported within 18 months. Missing these windows can end a claim before the facts are heard.
Insurers also face timelines. Upon notice, the insurer must pay or deny, in whole or in part, a property claim within 60 days – unless factors beyond the insurer’s control prevent payment. An explanation in writing for the basis of the payment, denial, or partial denial of a claim is required.
Photos and videos of interior stains, damaged decking, torn shingles, and tarps help protect your claim. In addition, line-item estimates from licensed professionals will demonstrate the scope of work needed and cost estimates. Keeping an organized file will help your insurance claims lawyer press for timely claim payments that comply with Florida law.
Keep these items in one folder if possible:
- Dated photos/video before mitigation, during dry-out, and after temporary repairs.
- Your policy’s declarations page, endorsements, and deductible details.
- Invoices and contractor estimates.
The Source of the Water is Crucial
Insurers frequently distinguish sudden, accidental water entry from long-term seepage or maintenance issues. Again, flooding requires a separate policy – homeowners’ policies do not cover floods. Keeping that distinction in mind can help you avoid missteps that could damage your claim. An experienced insurance claim attorney will frame the claim around a covered peril and separate non-covered flood or wear-and-tear items to keep negotiations focused.
Contact a Homeowner’s Insurance Claim Attorney Immediately for Your Roof Leaks
Homeowners who want clear next steps turn to Kuhn Raslavich, P.A. for guidance on property claims grounded in Florida law. One of our seasoned insurance claims lawyers will work to gather evidence and build a compelling file that shows your claim is valid.
If you are concerned about homeowners insurance covering roof leaks, you should act quickly, preserve proof, and use Florida’s statutes to keep the claim on track. You should also obtain legal help as quickly as possible. The legal professionals at Kuhn Raslavich, P.A. are standing by to help with your claim and peace of mind. If you would like a free review of your claim, please get in touch by calling 877-352-7767 or using our online contact form.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ):
Does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks in Florida?
Coverage in Florida often depends on the cause of the leak. Sudden, accidental damage from wind or hail is usually covered, while long-term wear, neglect, or defective installation is often excluded.
What is the deadline for reporting a roof leak claim in Florida?
Florida law requires initial notice of a property claim within one year of the date of loss, and supplemental claims must be reported within 18 months.
Is flood damage from rising groundwater covered by a standard homeowners policy in Florida?
No, flood water from rising groundwater is not part of a standard homeowners policy. You need separate coverage through a Flood Insurance Policy for flood damage.