Why your insurer cares about the age of the roof
A roof at the end of its life lets water in more easily. For an insurer, that is a higher risk than a recent roof.
The application or renewal form often asks for the year of the last roofing work and the type of covering. The answer can affect the premium, the deductible or the scope of coverage offered. A new roof can improve your file, with no guarantee.
Normal wear and a claim
A home insurance policy generally covers sudden and accidental events. A policy is usually not meant to pay for replacing a roof that is simply worn out by time. Your insurer will confirm this.
Assume nothing. Read the section of your policy on water damage and on exclusions, then ask your insurer or your broker your questions.
Before the work
A call before the job avoids misunderstandings. Here is what to ask.
- Do you need to notify the insurer of the roof replacement?
- Does the choice of material change anything in the policy?
- Which documents will the insurer want once the work is done?
- Is the house covered normally during the job?
Also ask us for proof of up-to-date civil liability insurance, as you would any contractor, and keep a copy with the contract.
After the work
Tell your insurer the roof has been redone and give them the year of the work. An up-to-date file keeps you from being assessed on an old roof that no longer exists.
Keep these in one file:
- the contract and the final invoice
- the description of the materials installed
- the warranty certificates
- dated photos of the finished roof
These documents prove the age of the roof. They will help when you change insurers, make a claim or sell the property.
If your insurer asks you to redo the roof
An insurer sometimes asks for details on the condition of the roof, an inspection or work. Ask them in writing exactly what they require and by when.
Then ask us to examine the roof. Ask us whether a full replacement is justified or whether repairs are enough. Send our written opinion to the insurer.
Frequently asked questions
Will my insurance pay for a new roof when the old one is worn out?
In general, normal wear is not treated as a claim, and replacing a roof at the end of its life is seen as maintenance. Your policy and your insurer will give you the answer that applies to you.
Will my premium go down after a roof replacement?
A lower premium is possible after a roof replacement, but nothing guarantees it. Each insurer sets its own criteria. Tell them about the work and ask whether your file can be reassessed.
Can an insurer refuse to cover me because of an old roof?
An insurer can set conditions tied to the condition of the building. Those conditions vary from one company to another. If you receive such a request, have the options explained and compare with other insurers.