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Flat Roof Home Insurance

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Flat Roof Home Insurance

Why do I need specialist home insurance for a flat roof?

If you have a flat or low-pitch roof, your home will be more prone to leaks, water damage, and other weather-related problems. These issues can be costly to repair, so standard home insurance usually won’t cover them. Instead, you’ll need non-standard home insurance, which is designed to protect properties with higher or unusual risks.

What is considered a flat roof for insurance?

If your roof has a pitch of less than 10 degrees, it’s classed as a flat roof for insurance purposes. You’ll need to tell your insurer even if only part of your home, like an extension or outbuilding, has a flat roof. If you’re unsure about your roof’s pitch, check your building plans or ask a qualified roofer to confirm.

What does flat roof home insurance cover?

This type of insurance covers the same risks as standard home insurance, but it also protects against additional issues commonly faced by flat-roofed properties. Coverage varies by policy, but it typically includes:

Covered

  • Building insurance – Protection for the general structure of your home against damage from storms, floods, and accidents. This includes your roof.
  • Contents insurance – You can include cover for personal possessions inside the house. 
  • Water damage and leaks – When unexpected damage occurs from storms or heavy rains.
  • Theft or burglary – Flat roofs are notoriously easier to break into. This cover typically covers this added risk, with some limits.
  • Alternative accommodation – Some policies cover accommodation costs if your home becomes uninhabitable after being damaged by an insured event.

Not covered

  • Poor maintenance or installation, neglect or wear – Damage from slow leaks, cracks, and unattended water pooling may not be covered. Insurers often require regular maintenance reports. Failure to do so can lead to denied claims.
  • Pre-existing issues – You’ll only be covered for issues that arise after the start of the policy. Pre-existing leaks and structural damage will not be covered.
  • Age-related exclusions – If your roof is older than 15 or 20 years, your cover could be more limited.
  • Material-specific exclusions – Some policies may exclude certain materials that do not meet specific safety standards.
  • Uninsured perils– Some policies exclude risks like floods, earthquakes, landslides or government action. Carefully read through your policy for details. If you live in a flood-prone area, you may need additional coverage.
  • Some theft or vandalism – Claims can be denied if the flat roof provided easy access to burglars.

How much does flat roof home insurance cost?

Home insurance for a flat roof is typically more expensive than standard home insurance due to the increased risks. Premiums are based on a number of important factors.

Location

Crime rates, council tax costs, and weather patterns in your area can increase the risk profile of your property.

Claims history

If you have frequent or recent claims for roof repairs or damage, you’ll be considered a higher risk. Insurers charge more for this perceived risk.

Age of the roof

A newer, well-maintained roof is less likely to have leaks or be vulnerable to heavy weather conditions. If your roof is 15-20 years old, it’s a higher risk to insurers, so you’ll typically pay more for insurance.

Percentage of flat roof

Flat roofs carry a higher risk of leaks and damage. The higher the percentage of flat roof your home has, the more you’ll typically pay for insurance. Policies may differ on the exact percentages, so it’s important to shop around. Remember, a simple extension can also qualify as a flat roof structure. This will typically be included in the assessment.

Additional extras

There are many add-ons available for enhanced protection, but you’ll likely be charged more. For example, if you opt for additional subsidence cover or if you live in a flood risk area and want extra coverage, your premiums will be higher.

How can I get cheaper flat roof home insurance?

There are several things that could help to curb the costs of flat roof insurance.

Maintain your roof regularly

Install proper drainage

Use durable, certified materials

Upgrade your security systems

Limit unoccupied periods

Combine policies

Increase your excess amount

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Insurance for a flat roof FAQs

Is a flat roof covered by home insurance?

Yes. Flat roofs can be covered by home insurance, but your premiums will likely be higher. That’s because flat roofs are more at risk of leaks and damage. If more than 25-30% of your roof is flat, you could benefit from a specialised flat roof policy.

Why is a flat roof more expensive to insure?

Home insurance for a flat roof is more expensive than standard home insurance because flat roofs are more prone to water damage than pitched roofs. They require more frequent repairs and have shorter life spans. Additionally, it’s much easier for burglars to break into flat-roofed buildings. This typically also increases contents insurance premiums.

What percentage of my roof needs to be flat before I need specialist insurance?

Home insurance flat roof percentage requirements can vary between insurers. While the general range is between 25 and 30%, it’s always best to be clear with your insurer about any portion of a flat roof on your property. Your building plans can be a helpful guide, but if you’re unsure, get advice from an approved roof surveyor. 

Does home insurance cover flat roof leaks?

Yes, it can. However, it depends on the cause and the condition of the roof. If the leak was caused by a sudden insured event, you’ll likely be covered. If the leak was caused by negligence or lack of maintenance, it probably won’t be covered. If the flat roof was not declared when taking out the coverage, it’s unlikely you will be covered.

Can I get cover for a flat roof extension?

Yes. You can get home insurance for a flat roof extension. You must inform your insurer about your extension to ensure you’re covered. If the extension makes up a significant portion of the roof, you could need specialised flat roof insurance.

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*51% of consumers could save £241.88 on their Home Building & Contents Insurance. The saving was calculated by comparing the cheapest price found with the average of the next fourteen cheapest prices quoted by insurance providers on Seopa Ltd’s insurance comparison website. This is based on representative cost savings from June 2025. The savings you could achieve are dependent on your individual circumstances.