What an old roof means to the insurer
The roof keeps water out of the house. At the end of its life, it lets water through more easily, and the insurer sees a greater risk than with a recent roof.
The year of the work and the roofing can affect the premium, the deductible or the extent of coverage. Insurance belongs in your thinking about roof replacement cost. A replaced roof can help your file, but nothing guarantees it.
Four questions before the job
Call your insurer or broker before signing with a roofer.
- Do I need to report the roof replacement to you?
- Does the material I choose change my policy?
- What papers do you want once the roof is finished?
- Is my house still covered as usual during the work?
On the contractor's side, ask for current proof of their civil liability insurance. File the copy with the contract.
The roof is new: notify and file
Tell the insurer that the roof has been replaced, and in what year. Otherwise, your file might still describe the old roof.
Then gather in one place:
- the final invoice and the contract
- the list of materials installed
- the warranty certificates
- dated photos of the finished roof, requested from the roofer
This file establishes the roof's age. It can serve again if you change insurers, make a claim or sell the property.
Worn roof, damaged roof
In general, home insurance covers sudden and accidental events. In general too, it does not pay to replace a roof that the years have simply worn out.
Take neither of these principles for granted. Reread what your policy says about water damage and exclusions, then have your insurer or broker confirm your reading.
When the insurer writes first
An insurer may want details on the roof's condition, an inspection or work. Have them tell you in writing exactly what they expect, and by what date.
A roofer can then examine the roof and state whether repairs are enough or whether a roof replacement is justified. Send their written opinion to the insurer.
Frequently asked questions
My roof is at the end of its life: does insurance pay to replace it?
In general, normal wear is not seen as a loss, and replacing a roof at the end of its life is maintenance. The answer that applies to you is in your policy, and your insurer can confirm it.
Will I pay less for insurance with a new roof?
A new roof can help your file, with no guarantee. Criteria change from one insurer to another. Report the work and ask whether your file can be reassessed.
Can I be refused insurance because my roof is old?
An insurer can tie its coverage to conditions on the building's condition, and those conditions differ from one company to another. If this happens to you, ask what options are open to you, then compare with other insurers.