Will Insurance Cover a 20 Year Old Roof?
Homeowners often wonder, “Will insurance cover a 20 year old roof?” This is because coverage isn’t guaranteed to replace an aging roof. Our guide explores several factors affecting your roof’s insurance coverage, including your insurance policy, your roof’s condition, and your maintenance history.
Will Insurance Cover a 20 Year Old Roof?
Coverage for older roofs isn’t as clear-cut as it may seem. Policies vary between providers, and while some offer full protection for older roofs, others only cover a fraction of the replacement cost.
Factors That Affect Your 20 Year Old Roof’s Coverage
Your Insurance Policy: Full Replacement Cost vs Actual Cash-Value
Some policies offer full replacement cost coverage, reimbursing you for fixing or replacing your roof without factoring in depreciation. However, older roofs often result in lower payouts if covered under an actual cash-value policy.
Roof Age Limits
Certain roof insurance policies restrict coverage for roofs older than a specified age, such as 15 or 20 years. If your roof surpasses this threshold, you may need to seek additional coverage or pay for repairs or replacements out-of-pocket.
Will Insurance Cover a 20 Year Old Roof if It’s Well-Maintained?
Many policies require proof that the roof has been properly maintained. Neglected roofs may not qualify for coverage, regardless of age. To keep your roof in optimal condition, you can:
- Keep gutters free from debris so water can flow away from the roof.
- Trim overhanging or fallen branches that rub against shingles which can damage them during storms.
- Schedule inspections after major storms or annually to catch minor issues before they escalate.
- Repair damaged or missing shingles promptly to prevent leaks.
Unsure what your plan covers? Contact your insurance provider for clarification.
Will Insurance Cover a 20 Year Old Roof Due to Unforeseen Damage?
Most roof insurance companies will only cover damage caused by unforeseen or natural disasters such as hailstorms, strong winds, or falling branches. However, if damage results from neglect or normal wear and tear due to a roof’s age or poor maintenance, your insurance company may deny repair or replacement costs.
Steps to Take If Your Roof Is Damaged
If your roof is damaged, follow these steps to improve your chances of approval of your insurance claim:
- Document the Damage – Capture photos of any visible issues, such as missing shingles, leaks, or sagging areas.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection – Have an expert like SEI Roofing evaluate the damage and prepare a report.
- File a Claim with Your Insurance Provider – Submit all relevant documentation promptly, including photos and inspection reports.
Acting fast demonstrates your commitment to maintaining your property and can increase the likelihood of your claim being approved.
When Is It Time for a Roof Replacement?
If you start to notice these signs on your roof, it’s time to call a skilled roofing contractor for an assessment:
- Curling or Buckling Shingles – If your roof’s shingles don’t lie flat, your home is more vulnerable to the elements.
- Bald Spots on Shingles or Granules in Gutters – When shingles lose granules, they provide less UV protection and can lead to faster deterioration.
- Missing or Broken Shingles – High winds and storms can dislodge shingles, increasing the risk of leaks.
- Sagging Roofline – A visibly sagging roofline could signal structural issues like rotting beams or water damage.
You may also want to consider getting a roof replacement if you find yourself repeatedly patching leaks or replacing shingles or your energy bills are rising—this may mean your insulation or roofing system has failed.
Unfortunately, insurance companies won’t replace your roof just because it’s old. But a quality, functioning roof is essential to the safety and longevity of your home.
Get a Free Roof Inspection with SEI Roofing
Whether you need repairs, assistance with an insurance claim, or a full roof replacement, our team of roofing contractors is here to help. SEI Roofing offers free roof inspections to assess your roof’s current condition and recommend the best path forward.
Contact SEI Roofing today to schedule your inspection and protect your home for years to come.
