Broken roof tiles are usually covered by building insurance in Australia when the damage is caused by an insured event such as storms, hail, falling trees or accidental impact. Most insurers do not cover broken tiles caused by age, wear, lack of maintenance, or gradual deterioration. Understanding what is and is not covered can save homeowners significant stress and help them take the right steps when tile damage occurs.
Roof tiles play a major role in protecting your home from rain and weather exposure. When a tile cracks or breaks, even a small gap can allow water to track into roof cavities, insulation, and ceilings. This is why it is important to act promptly and check whether your building insurance will assist with repairs or replacements.
What Insurance Usually Covers
Australian home insurance policies generally include cover for sudden and unexpected damage. Storms are one of the main causes of broken roof tiles, especially during severe wind or hail events. If tiles are damaged due to wild weather, most insurers classify this as insurable damage. Claims may also be accepted when tiles are broken by falling branches, accidental impact or emergency repair works needed to stop a leak.
Fire damage is also included in most policies. If tiles crack or collapse due to heat or structural stress during a fire, the insurer will typically cover replacement and related repair works.
Another covered situation is emergency roof repairs ordered by the insurer to prevent further damage. If a contractor temporarily replaces or secures tiles to stop water from entering, these emergency works are commonly reimbursed.
What Insurance Usually Does Not Cover
Although many tile-related problems are covered, insurers exclude damage that results from long-term neglect. If a roof has not been maintained, cleaned or inspected for many years, the insurer may decide the broken tiles were caused by deterioration rather than a sudden incident.
Damage from mould, algae, general wear or poor installation is almost always excluded. Similarly, if the roof is past its expected service life, insurers may decline the claim on the basis that the tile failure was expected.
Minor cracks that have been left unrepaired for a long period and have allowed water ingress may also be assessed as maintenance-related, rather than caused by a single event.
How to Make a Strong Insurance Claim
The first step is to document the damage. Take clear photos of the broken tiles, any fallen debris, the surrounding roof area and any internal water marks or ceiling damage. This helps your insurer understand the timing and cause of the problem.
Next, contact your insurer as soon as possible. Most policies require timely reporting. Delays can weaken a claim, particularly if extra damage occurs after the initial incident.
It is also wise to obtain a professional roof inspection. A licensed roofing company such as TomKat Roofing can assess the condition of your tiles, identify the source of the damage and provide a detailed report. Many insurers find these reports helpful when they review the claim.
Avoid carrying out major repairs before receiving approval from the insurer unless it is an emergency. However, temporary measures to prevent additional damage are usually encouraged.
If your claim is approved, the insurer will generally send either a preferred contractor or allow you to use your chosen roofing specialist. Make sure all repair work is completed by qualified roofers to maintain warranty and structural standards.
For reliable assessments and roof reports, TomKat Roofing is always ready to assist with professional guidance.
Preventing Broken Roof Tiles
While some damage cannot be avoided, regular upkeep greatly reduces the risk of tile failure. A roof inspection every one to two years is a practical way to detect cracked or loose tiles early. Cleaning gutters, trimming overhanging branches and removing heavy debris after storms helps protect the roof structure.
Homeowners should also avoid walking on roof tiles unnecessarily. Foot traffic is one of the most common causes of accidental breakage.
If you suspect tile movement, rattling or hear water dripping during rain, it may be a sign that a tile has cracked. Addressing issues early stops them from becoming major repairs.
TomKat Roofing provides maintenance support to help homeowners feel confident about their roof’s condition year-round.
Should You Repair or Replace the Affected Tiles?
In most cases, only the damaged tiles need to be replaced. However, if the surrounding area shows weakness or multiple tiles have been cracked for some time, a larger section may require attention. Terracotta and concrete tiles have different lifespans, and matching older tiles can occasionally be challenging.
A roofing professional will help determine whether a simple replacement is enough or whether a more thorough repair is needed to maintain long-term protection.
The Way Forward
Need help with an insurance claim or urgent tile repairs? Contact TomKat Roofing today for fast, expert support from Sydney’s trusted roofing specialists.
FAQs
Does building insurance cover broken roof tiles from hail?
Yes, hail damage is usually covered as long as the event was sudden and caused the breakage directly.
Are cracked tiles from old age covered?
No. Age-related wear, deterioration, and lack of maintenance are typically excluded.
Can I claim internal water damage if the roof tiles broke in a storm?
Yes, if the storm caused the breakage and water entered as a result, both internal and external damage may be covered.
Do insurers cover temporary emergency repairs?
Most insurers cover emergency works that prevent further damage, such as temporary tile replacement or tarping.
Should I repair tiles before making a claim?
Only emergency repairs should be completed first. Full repair work should wait until the insurer approves the claim.
