Does The Age Of Your Roof Affect Insurance Rates?

Since your home is probably one of your biggest investments, it is crucial to protect it with the appropriate insurance coverage. However, you might not have considered the way that the age of a roof has an affect on insurance rates. Like other common factors such as your location, the age and state of your roof are common elements that are also considered when determining the cost of your insurance.

That’s why, in this blog post, we’ll go over the complex connection between the rates for homeowners insurance and the age of your roof. We’ll answer whether or not the age of your roof actually matters when it comes to insurance, and fill you in on all you need to know about the factors that play into insurance coverage so that you can better protect your home and investment. 

Are Insurance Rates Affected by the Age of Your Roof?

The overall age of your roof can impact your insurance rates. Insurance companies often will not cover roofs over 20 years old, and some don’t cover roofs older than 15 years. This is because it’s more likely to cost more to replace the roof the older it is, especially when its age makes it more likely to be damaged in storms.  

Even if an insurance company decides to cover a roof older than 20 years, it may do so at the price of a higher monthly premium. The insurance company may also only cover a small portion of repairs or replacements, and not the entire cost.  

Why Won’t Insurance Cover An Old Roof? 

Insurance companies may be hesitant or refuse to provide coverage for roofs over 15 or 20 years of age for several reasons, and here are some of the main ones:

Increased Risk of Damage: Older roofs are more likely to sustain damage from environmental factors such as wind, rain, hail, and snow. The materials can deteriorate over time, making them less effective at protecting a home from water damage or structural issues. This increased risk can lead to more frequent and expensive insurance claims.

Wear and Tear: As roofing materials age, they naturally wear down. This wear and tear can lead to leaks, missing shingles or tiles, and other issues that compromise the roof’s integrity and effectiveness. Insurers view this as a heightened risk, as it can lead to significant damage to the home, increasing the likelihood of a claim.

Obsolete Materials: Older roofs may have been constructed with materials that are now considered obsolete or less effective compared to modern materials. These materials may not meet current building codes or may require special treatment or repairs that are more costly or difficult to manage, making them less attractive to insurers.

Higher Replacement Costs: The cost to replace an older roof can be significant, particularly if the entire structure needs to be brought up to current building codes. Insurance companies may be reluctant to cover these costs without charging higher premiums or refusing coverage, as they anticipate the potential for an expensive claim.

Factors Considered by Insurance Companies

Insurance companies consider several factors when determining your insurance rate, such as the age and type of your roof, and your home’s location. Here’s what you should know about the factors compared along with your roof’s age and how it impacts your insurance:

• Age of the Roof: Insurance companies see roofs less than ten years old as relatively new. However, roofs older than 15 or 20 years may result in higher premiums or limited coverage.
• Roof Condition: Beyond age, the condition of your roof matters. Well-maintained older roofs may still qualify for decent insurance coverage.
• Building Codes and Regulations: Compliance with local building codes and regulations regarding roofing materials and installation practices can affect insurance rates. Homes meeting or exceeding these standards may be viewed more favorably by insurers.
• Roof Type: The type of roofing material impacts insurance rates. Homes with durable materials like metal or tile may qualify for lower premiums due to their resistance to damage from hazards such as wind or fire.

How Do Materials Impact Insurance Rates?

Understanding how roofing materials affect insurance rates can help homeowners make the right decisions about their coverage. As a homeowner, it is important that you understand how different materials can have an impact on insurance, so here’s a more detailed description:

1. Asphalt Shingles: Due to their low cost, long lifespan, and durability, this roofing material is widely used, and therefore covered. The average yearly premium for insurance is between $1,300 and $1,500.
2. Wood Shingles/Shakes: Because wood shingles and shakes are not fireproof, insurance companies may raise your premium, ranging from $1,400 to $1,600 annually.
3. Metal Roofs: Very strong and fireproof, which lowers insurance costs, making annual premiums normally between $1,200 and $1,400.
4. Concrete/Clay Tiles: Hardy and fireproof, concrete/clay tiles have the potential to fetch lower insurance prices, typically, between $1,200 and $1,500 per year.
5. Slate: Fireproof and low maintenance, though it can break more easily. Insurance premiums, which typically range from $1,100 to $1,500 annually, are nevertheless comparatively lower.

Maintaining Insurability

While you can’t turn back the clock on your roof’s age, there are steps you can take to tackle its impact on your insurance rates:

1. Regular Inspections:

Keeping your roof in good shape is the key to affordable insurance. Schedule inspections twice a year to catch any problems early. Look out for things like loose shingles or signs of water damage. This shows insurers you’re on top of things, which can help keep your rates low.

2. Clean Debris:

Keep debris from piling up on your roof, especially as it ages. Leaves and branches can trap water and cause damage. Regular cleanups prevent issues like mold and shingle decay. Keeping your roof clean tells insurers you’re proactive about maintenance, which can mean better rates.

3. Trim Branches:

Trim any trees hanging over your roof, especially as it gets older. During storms, branches can do severe damage. Keeping them trimmed back reduces the risk of damage and claims. Insurers like this proactive approach, which can help keep your rates down.

4. Check Flashing:

Keep an eye on the flashing around chimneys and vents. Over time, they can wear out and cause leaks. Regular checks and fixes keep your roof strong. Taking care of vulnerable spots tells insurers you’re serious about maintenance, which can help maintain reasonable rates.

Conclusion 

Now that you know how the age of your roof affects insurance rates, you’ll want to act to maintain the condition of your roof. To safeguard your investment, it’s essential to schedule regular roof inspections and address issues promptly. By staying proactive, you can improve the lifespan of your roof and minimize the likelihood of costly damage. 

At BRH Enterprises, we specialize in roofing services tailored to your needs. Our expert team is dedicated to helping homeowners maintain and protect their roofs, ensuring optimal performance and security. Trust BRH Enterprises to keep your home safe and secure while helping you lower the cost of your insurance rate. Contact us today at (920) 249-4228 to learn more.