It starts with a subtle dripping sound in the attic or, worse, the terrifying groan of timber under too much weight. For homeowners in Orillia, Muskoka, and the surrounding snowbelt regions, the accumulation of snow and ice on the roof is not just a chore to manage—it is a genuine threat to your property’s structure.
When you look up at those heavy drifts hanging over your eaves, a pressing question likely crosses your mind: If my roof gives way or starts to leak, will my insurance cover it?
At McLean & Dickey, we know that winter in our community is beautiful but unforgiving. As your local independent broker, we want to help you understand the nuances of your policy before the snow piles up. Here is a deep dive into what is typically covered when it comes to winter roof damage, and where you might be exposed.
The Golden Rule: Sudden and Accidental vs. Maintenance
To understand your coverage, you first need to understand how insurance companies view damage. Generally, home insurance is designed to cover sudden and accidental events. It is not a warranty against wear and tear.
If a healthy tree snaps under the weight of an ice storm and crashes through your roof, that is sudden. However, if your roof is 25 years old, curling at the edges, and leaks after a light snowfall because the shingles were already failing, that is considered a maintenance issue.
1. Ice Dams: The Silent Leak
Ice dams are a common headache in Ontario. They form when heat from your attic escapes, melting the snow on your roof. This water runs down to the colder eaves and refreezes, creating a ridge of ice that blocks proper drainage. As water backs up behind this dam, it can seep under shingles and into your walls and ceilings.
Is it covered?
Usually, yes, but with caveats.
- Interior Damage: Most comprehensive policies will cover the water damage caused to the interior of your home (wet drywall, ruined insulation, stained ceilings).
- The Roof Itself: The cost to remove the ice dam or repair the specific exterior shingles might not be covered if the insurer determines the dam formed due to long-term lack of insulation or maintenance.
The Statistic:
Roof leaks are a major winter driver for claims. Data from BCAA indicates that 56% of roof leak claims occur in just a three-month period — November to January. This highlights why preventative maintenance in the fall is critical.
2. Roof Collapse from Snow Load
In heavy snow zones like Muskoka, the sheer weight of accumulated snow can threaten the structural integrity of your home or cottage.
Is it covered?
Typically, yes.
Standard policies usually include coverage for damage caused by the weight of ice, snow, or sleet. If your roof collapses suddenly under an extreme snow load, your policy should cover the structural repairs and the damage to the contents inside.
Important Note: If the collapse happens to a structure that was already rotting or visibly sagging before the snow fell, an adjuster might argue that the loss was due to negligence rather than the storm.
3. Wind Damage
Winter storms often bring fierce winds that can rip shingles right off the roof deck.
Is it covered?
Yes. Wind is a standard peril in almost all home insurance policies. If a windstorm tears off shingles, the replacement of those shingles is covered. However, be mindful of your deductible. If the cost to replace a few shingles is $800 and your deductible is $1,000, you will be paying out of pocket.
The "Maintenance" Gap
This is where many homeowners face disappointment. Insurance requires you to take “reasonable care” of your property. If a claim is denied, it is often because the damage was deemed preventable.
- Old Roofs: If your roof is nearing the end of its life (typically 15-20 years for asphalt shingles), insurers may view a leak as inevitable wear and tear rather than an insurable event.
- Neglect: Failing to clean gutters or ignoring missing flashing can act as grounds for denial if those issues contributed to the damage.
Winter Proofing Your Roof
You can’t stop the snow from falling, but you can stop it from getting inside. Here is how to protect your home and your insurance standing:
- Keep it Clear: Use a telescopic roof rake to gently remove snow from the edges of your roof after heavy snowfalls. This relieves weight and reduces the source water for ice dams.
- Insulate Your Attic: Proper insulation and ventilation keep the roof surface cold, which prevents the melt-freeze cycle that creates ice dams.
- Check Your Gutters: Ensure they are clean and securely attached so meltwater can flow freely away from your foundation.
Why Work with McLean & Dickey?
When you are dealing with a hole in your roof in the middle of February, you don’t want to navigate a call centre. You want a neighbour.
As an independent broker, we work for you, not the insurance company. We can review your policy to ensure you have “All Perils” or comprehensive coverage that protects against these specific winter threats. If you do have a claim, we advocate for you to ensure a fair settlement, helping you distinguish between storm damage and wear and tear.
Winter is already here. Let us review your coverage. Contact Us.