Does Home Warranty Cover Roof Repairs? What Most Homeowners Don’t Know

TLDR;

Yes, some home warranty plans cover roof repairs—but only for specific issues like leaks caused by normal wear and tear. However, coverage is often limited, may require an add-on, and rarely includes full roof replacements or damage from storms or poor maintenance.

What Is a Home Warranty and How Does It Work?

A home warranty is a service contract that covers repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances that fail due to normal wear and tear.

• Unlike homeowners insurance, which covers damage from fire, storms, or theft, a home warranty covers breakdowns in things like plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and sometimes the roof.
  
  
• Homeowners pay an annual premium and a service fee per claim.
  
  
• Most policies have coverage limits and exclusions, especially for components like the roof.
  
  
• The process involves submitting a service request, waiting for an assigned contractor, and paying the service call fee.
  
  

Understanding this framework is crucial before assuming roof coverage is automatically included in a standard plan.

Does a Home Warranty Cover Roof Repairs?

In most cases, home warranty providers do not include roof coverage in standard plans—but some offer it as an optional add-on.

• Coverage typically applies to roof leaks caused by wear and tear, not damage from storms, fallen trees, or improper installation.
  
  
• The coverage is generally limited to patching or sealing leaks.
  
  
• Full roof replacements or structural issues (like sagging or rotting) are not included.
  
  
• Some companies cap roof leak coverage at $500–$1,000 per claim.
  
  

This means that while some help is available, relying solely on your home warranty for major roofing issues may leave you exposed.

What Types of Roof Damage Are Typically Covered?

Roof coverage through a home warranty is narrow. Here’s what you might expect to be included:

• Leaks from normal wear and tear (e.g., aged shingles or flashing)
  
  
• Water penetration through the roof membrane
  
  
• Minor flashing or sealant failures
  
  

However, coverage may be restricted to the home’s main roof and not include:

• Patios, balconies, sheds, or detached garages
  
  
• Flat roofs or roofs with specialized materials (like metal or tile)
  
  

So while there may be partial coverage, it often doesn’t extend to all types of roofing systems or materials.

Common Exclusions in Roof Coverage

This is where most homeowners get caught off guard. Even if your policy mentions “roof coverage,” the exclusions matter.

Typical exclusions include:

• Pre-existing leaks or damage
  
  
• Damage due to poor installation or maintenance neglect
  
  
• Storm, hail, or wind damage (this falls under homeowners insurance)
  
  
• Cosmetic issues like staining or minor discoloration
  
  
• Structural damage beyond superficial leaks
  
  

Most importantly, even with an add-on, you’ll likely face a service fee, and coverage might be denied based on inspection findings.

Which Home Warranty Companies Cover Roof Repairs?

Some companies do offer roof coverage as an add-on or within higher-tier plans. Here are a few names that frequently show up:

• American Home Shield – Limited roof leak coverage available with upgrade
  
  
• Choice Home Warranty – Roof leak repair included in standard plan, with restrictions
  
  
• Select Home Warranty – Offers up to $400–$500 roof coverage with exclusions
  
  

Before purchasing, read the service agreement line by line. Pay attention to limits, exclusions, and what defines “normal wear.”

What to Do if Your Roof Repair Claim Is Denied

It’s frustrating, but it happens more often than not. Here's how to handle it:

• Review your policy carefully to identify why it was denied
  
  
• Request documentation from the warranty company outlining the decision
  
  
• Appeal the claim if you believe it was unjustly denied
  
  
• Hire an independent roofing contractor like Amish Roofer for a second opinion
  
  
• Document the issue thoroughly with photos and maintenance records
  
  

If your claim continues to be denied, you may need to explore small claims court or report the company to your state’s insurance commission.

Alternatives to Home Warranty Roof Coverage

If your roof isn’t covered—or your claim is denied—there are other options:

• Homeowners Insurance – May cover damage from storms, fire, or falling objects
  
  
• Out-of-pocket Repairs – For minor issues, paying a trusted local roofer like Amish Roofer might be more cost-effective
  
  
• Roof Maintenance Plans – Some contractors offer annual inspections and maintenance packages to catch problems early
  
  
• Roof Repair Financing – Many roofers offer financing options for bigger jobs
  
  

Ultimately, you need to weigh the cost of add-ons and service fees versus the likelihood of roof issues and your deductible.

How to Choose a Home Warranty That Covers Roof Repairs

Not all warranties are created equal. If roof coverage is a priority:

• Choose a plan that offers roof leak repair as part of the base or add-on
  
  
• Look for companies with positive customer reviews and high approval rates
  
  
• Verify coverage limits—some are capped as low as $400 per year
  
  
• Understand the exclusions – especially for flat roofs or improper maintenance
  
  
• Request a sample contract before purchasing and read it carefully
  
  

Ask pointed questions like: Does this include flashing? What about multi-layer roofs? Are flat roofs excluded?

At Amish Roofer, we often assist homeowners in navigating these contracts—and we always recommend comparing real costs before relying on a warranty alone.

What Homeowners Don’t Know About Roof Coverage

Many homeowners assume their roof is protected simply because they have a warranty. Here’s what they often overlook:

• Most home warranties do not include roof coverage by default
  
  
• When they do, it’s limited to leak repairs only, not replacements
  
  
• Storm damage is not covered by warranties—only homeowners insurance
  
  
• Filing a claim can be time-consuming, and many are denied for technical reasons
  
  
• Warranty companies may not use licensed roofers, which can lead to subpar repairs
  
  

That’s why it’s essential to maintain your roof regularly, watch for urgent roof repair signs, and work with a professional like Amish Roofer for inspections and repairs outside of warranty constraints.

Home Warranty Roof Coverage

While some home warranties do offer limited roof leak repair, they shouldn’t be your primary defense against roofing problems.

• Does home warranty cover roof repairs? Only for minor leaks due to wear and tear, and often only with an add-on.
  
  
• Are you covered for storms or full roof replacements? Absolutely not.
  
  
• Is it worth it? Sometimes—but only if you understand the fine print and the limitations.
  
  

For most homeowners, investing in regular roof maintenance and understanding your homeowners insurance coverage is a more reliable strategy.



If you're dealing with roof issues or need professional advice, contact Amish Roofer—we offer honest guidance, dependable service, and real protection beyond what warranties provide.