How roofing affects home insurance

By Great Roofing and Restoration.

Learn why some insurance companies might drop homeowners because of the condition of their roof.

If you have gotten a phone call or letter from your insurance company stating that your roof might cause them to drop your coverage, you’re not alone. While this is a stressful situation, it is also a fairly common one. At the heart of most of these situations is an aging or damaged roof. But you are not powerless when it comes to this type of situation. Things like maintenance, repairs and a trusted roofer can help you manage these types of insurance concerns. Keep reading to get advice from the team at Great Roofing and Restoration on protecting yourself, your home and your insurance.

Why would an insurance company drop you because of your roof?

1 - Older roofs are more likely to fail

As roofs age, they naturally begin to wear down. Cracked or missing shingles become more common, increasing the risk of leaks that can lead to structural damage if not addressed. You may hear the term “granule loss” — this refers to shingles slowly deteriorating over time due to exposure to the elements. Insurance companies pay attention to your roof’s age and condition because if it fails, they could be responsible for costly repairs or damage. If your roof is very old or in poor shape, they might consider it too high of a risk and could even choose to drop your coverage or require replacement before continuing coverage.

2 - Damaged roof increases risk for both you and your insurer

Even if your roof isn’t very old, visible damage like missing shingles, leaks or holes can put your home at risk for water intrusion, mold and even structural issues. These kinds of problems often lead to insurance claims, which makes insurance companies nervous. If they see signs that your roof is deteriorating, they may predict that a claim is likely and decide not to renew your policy to avoid the financial risk or require replacement before continuing coverage.

3 - Some roof materials are seen as riskier

Some roofing materials, like older wood shakes or certain types of shingles, are seen as higher risk by insurance companies. These materials also may not perform as well in bad weather, which can increase the chances of damage. If your roof is made from natural materials, it might be harder to keep your coverage, especially if your home is in an area prone to storms or hail. The good news is there are options to keep the natural look, without the headaches involved. The Great Roofing and Restorations team has been upgrading wood shake roofs in Muirfield Village in Dublin, Ohio to composite roofing options for this exact reason.

4 - Roof inspections can help you stay ahead of insurance issues

Insurance companies often request roof inspections — especially for older homes — to assess potential risk. If the inspection reveals issues like significant wear or damage, it could impact your coverage. That is why it’s so important to stay ahead on roof maintenance and repairs. A timely inspection gives you the opportunity to make updates before problems arise and ensures you’re in a stronger position when it’s time for policy renewal. We recommend seasonal inspections especially for older homes.

How a trusted roofing partner can help you keep your coverage

Dealing with insurance issues related to your roof can be overwhelming, but a trusted roofing partner can make a big difference. A trusted, accredited roofing company, like Great Roofing and Restoration, can help you understand your roof’s condition, navigate and advocate for your home during the insurance claim process and ensure that your roof stays in top shape.

Here’s how contractors can help:

• Inspection and assessment: Our team provides our homeowners with a detailed inspection to identify any issues with your roof before the insurance company does. If there are problems, we offer solutions and help them plan the best course of action.
• Working with insurance: Because our team understands the ins and outs of working with insurance companies, we help our clients navigate the claim process, ensuring they're getting the compensation they deserve for any repairs or replacement and they are informed to be able to advocate for your home.
• Roof repairs and replacements: If the roof is showing signs of wear or needs replacement, our team can handle the job quickly and efficiently, giving our clients peace of mind and preventing future claims.

Watch out for contractors who might take advantage of the situation

Unfortunately, not all roofing companies have your best interests at heart. If you’re dealing with insurance claims or roof repairs, it’s important to choose a contractor you can trust.  

Here are some warning signs to watch out for:

• They push for unnecessary repairs: Be wary of contractors who suggest repairs or replacements that aren’t necessary. A reputable roofer will only recommend the services that are actually needed to keep your roof in good shape.
• They ask for large upfront payments: Be cautious of companies that ask for large payments upfront. A trustworthy contractor will offer reasonable payment plans and won’t demand the full amount before starting the work.
• They don’t have good reviews or references: Always check online reviews or ask for references before hiring a contractor. If the company has a history of poor service, questionable business practices or is unable or unhappy to provide references, it’s best to look elsewhere.
• They offer too-good-to-be-true deals: If a contractor is offering significantly lower prices than everyone else, it’s usually a sign they’re cutting corners. If a contractor is offering to waive your deductible, that is illegal. Be cautious of these tactics, they often come with poor-quality work.

What you can do to protect yourself

To protect yourself from roof-related insurance issues, here are a few things you can do:

• Stay on top of roof maintenance: Regular roof inspections and prompt repairs can help you avoid damage that could lead to an insurance claim.
• Consider a roof replacement: If your roof is getting old or showing signs of major wear, replacing it before an insurance renewal can help you avoid cancellation and keep your home covered.
• Find a trustworthy roofing contractor: Choose a reputable, experienced contractor who can guide you through the process and help ensure your roof stays in good condition.

Original article source: Great Roofing and Restoration