The Cost of Common Home Repairs and What Insurance Typically Covers

Home repairs can be an inevitable part of maintaining a safe and functional living space. Whether it’s fixing a leaking roof, repairing plumbing, or dealing with electrical issues, the cost of home repairs can add up quickly. Fortunately, home insurance can help mitigate some of these costs, but understanding which repairs are covered and the associated costs is essential for homeowners to manage their expectations and finances.

This article will delve into the typical costs of common home repairs, discuss what home insurance usually covers, and outline how homeowners can navigate the claims process.

The Cost of Common Home Repairs

Home repairs vary widely in cost, depending on the type of issue, the materials used, and the region. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the average cost of home repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the issue.

Here’s a look at some common home repairs and their associated costs:

1. Roof Repair or Replacement

Average Cost: $300–$1,000 for repairs; $5,000–$10,000 for full replacement.
Details: Roof repairs can range from patching small leaks to replacing shingles or flashing. Roof replacements are significantly more expensive and are typically needed after years of wear and tear, storms, or other environmental damage.

2. Plumbing Repairs

Average Cost: $150–$1,000 for minor repairs; $1,000–$5,000 for pipe replacement.
Details: Plumbing issues can include clogged drains, leaky faucets, or damaged pipes. Major plumbing problems may require the replacement of sections of pipes, which can be costly.

3. Electrical Repairs

Average Cost: $150–$500 for minor repairs; $1,500–$3,000 for major rewiring.
Details: Electrical repairs are essential for maintaining a safe home. These repairs can range from fixing outlets and switches to rewiring an entire home.

4. HVAC System Repairs

Average Cost: $150–$500 for minor repairs; $3,000–$7,000 for full system replacement.
Details: HVAC systems are crucial for regulating temperature and air quality. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs, but if the system breaks down, repair costs can be substantial.

5. Foundation Repairs

Average Cost: $2,000–$7,000 for minor foundation repairs; $10,000+ for major issues.
Details: Foundation problems can be caused by shifting soil, water damage, or poor construction. Repairing foundation issues can be expensive but is vital to the overall safety and stability of the home.

6. Water Damage Repairs

Average Cost: $1,000–$10,000 depending on the extent of damage.
Details: Water damage can result from burst pipes, leaks, flooding, or storms. Depending on the cause and severity, it can involve drywall replacement, mold remediation, and floor repairs.

7. Pest Infestation Repairs

Average Cost: $200–$2,000 depending on the type of pest.
Details: Pests like termites or rodents can cause significant damage to a home. Repairing this damage may include replacing structural elements or dealing with pest control measures.

8. Window and Door Repairs

Average Cost: $200–$1,500 depending on the size and material of the window or door.
Details: Broken windows or doors can affect both the aesthetics and energy efficiency of a home. Replacement costs can vary based on the quality and type of materials used.

What Home Insurance Typically Covers

Home insurance policies vary, but there are certain repairs that are commonly covered. Understanding what is included in your policy can help you avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

1. Dwelling Coverage

What’s Covered: This coverage generally includes repairs to the structure of your home if it is damaged by a covered peril, such as fire, lightning, hail, vandalism, or theft.
Example: If a fire damages your kitchen or a tree falls on your roof during a storm, dwelling coverage would typically pay for the cost of repairs or replacement, minus your deductible.

2. Personal Property Coverage

What’s Covered: This portion of your policy covers the repair or replacement of personal belongings that are damaged, destroyed, or stolen due to covered events.
Example: If a storm causes a tree to fall through your roof and damage your furniture, personal property coverage would pay for the replacement or repair of the damaged items.

3. Liability Coverage

What’s Covered: Liability coverage helps protect you if someone is injured on your property, or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property.
Example: If a visitor slips on your icy sidewalk and sues you, liability coverage would help cover legal costs and medical expenses.

4. Additional Living Expenses (ALE)

What’s Covered: ALE pays for living expenses if you need to temporarily move out of your home while it’s being repaired due to a covered event.
Example: If a fire causes significant damage to your home and you need to stay in a hotel for several weeks, ALE coverage will help cover the cost of your temporary lodging.

5. Water Damage

What’s Covered: Most standard home insurance policies cover water damage caused by internal plumbing issues (e.g., burst pipes) but do not cover flooding from external sources (e.g., floods due to storms or rising water levels). For flood protection, homeowners need a separate flood insurance policy.
Example: If a pipe bursts in your kitchen, causing water damage to the walls and flooring, this would typically be covered by your home insurance.

6. Roof Damage

What’s Covered: Damage caused by certain perils such as storms or hail is generally covered by your policy. However, damage resulting from wear and tear, neglect, or lack of maintenance may not be covered.
Example: If a windstorm rips off shingles or causes your roof to leak, dwelling coverage would typically pay for repairs.

What Home Insurance Does Not Typically Cover

While home insurance provides valuable protection, there are several things it does not cover. Understanding these exclusions can help you better plan for potential out-of-pocket costs.

1. Flood Damage

What’s Not Covered: Floods are excluded from most home insurance policies, and homeowners need separate flood insurance for this type of damage.
Example: If a hurricane causes heavy rainfall, and the water rises and floods your basement, this damage would not be covered under your standard home insurance policy.

2. Earthquakes

What’s Not Covered: Earthquake damage is also excluded from most standard policies, though it can be added through a rider or separate earthquake policy.
Example: If an earthquake causes cracks in your foundation or damages your roof, you would need additional coverage for this type of loss.

3. Routine Maintenance or Wear and Tear

What’s Not Covered: Home insurance typically does not cover the cost of repairs due to normal wear and tear or neglect.
Example: If your plumbing system fails because it’s old or has not been properly maintained, home insurance is unlikely to cover the cost of repairs.

4. Pest Damage

What’s Not Covered: Most home insurance policies do not cover damage caused by pests such as termites, rodents, or bedbugs.
Example: If termites cause significant structural damage to your home, you would likely have to pay for the repairs out of pocket.

How to Save on Home Repair Costs

While insurance can cover many repair costs, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce the likelihood of needing costly repairs in the first place. Regular maintenance and preventive measures can go a long way in protecting your home.

1. Regular Maintenance

Tip: Inspect your home regularly for signs of damage. Check your roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC units to ensure they’re functioning properly.

2. Increase Your Deductible

Tip: If you have a good understanding of your home’s risks and can afford higher out-of-pocket expenses, raising your deductible can lower your premium. However, be sure you’re comfortable with the cost of repairs if an incident occurs.

3. Preventative Measures for Water Damage

Tip: Install sump pumps, clean gutters regularly, and check for leaks in your plumbing to prevent water damage. Adding waterproofing to your basement may also help reduce the risk of water-related damage.

4. Invest in Home Warranties

Tip: Home warranties are separate from home insurance and can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing major appliances and systems such as plumbing, electrical, or HVAC units.

5. Document Your Home’s Condition

Tip: Keep an updated inventory of your home’s condition and belongings. This documentation can help speed up the claims process in the event of a disaster.

Conclusion

Home repairs are an inevitable part of maintaining a safe and functional living space, but understanding the costs and what insurance covers can help you navigate the process with confidence. Home insurance can provide valuable protection against a wide range of potential damages, but homeowners should be aware of exclusions and take preventive steps to minimize the need for expensive repairs. By maintaining your home and understanding your insurance policy, you can ensure that you’re well-prepared for whatever comes your way.

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Grigor Yovov
Co-Founder and Senior Insurance Consultant

Grigor Yovov is the co-founder of Trendix Insurance and a senior consultant with over 17 years of experience in the insurance and finance sectors. Specializing in car, home, life, and health insurance, he brings a strategic approach to insurance solutions for individuals and businesses. Grigor is dedicated to providing accurate, insightful information that helps users make well-informed decisions about their insurance needs. His deep knowledge of industry regulations and commitment to transparency ensure that Trendix Insurance readers get reliable, up-to-date content.

Vili Yovova
Insurance Specialist and Consumer Advisor

Vili Yovova is an insurance specialist at Trendix Insurance with extensive expertise in personal and family insurance planning. She focuses on helping users understand complex insurance topics and find the right coverage options for their unique needs. With a strong emphasis on transparency and user education, Vili provides detailed comparisons, guides, and insights into the latest insurance trends. Her user-focused content empowers readers to make informed insurance choices confidently.

Michael Johnson
Research Analyst and Content Writer

Michael Johnson is a research analyst and content writer with a background in financial services and a passion for clear, reliable information. At Trendix Insurance, Michael focuses on analyzing insurance products, policy benefits, and market trends to help users stay informed and make educated decisions. His commitment to accuracy and detail ensures that every article meets Google’s E-A-T standards, supporting readers with trustworthy and expert-backed content.