Will Home Insurance Cover a 15-Year-Old Roof? A Complete Roof Insurance Guide

If your roof is 15 years old, you may be asking yourself, "Will my homeowners insurance still cover my roof replacement or repairs?" It’s a common question for homeowners, especially when the roof begins to show signs of wear. The good news is that insurance often still covers roofs this old, but there are key factors that influence whether your claim will be approved and how much coverage you’ll get. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to ensure your 15-year-old roof remains insurable and how to file a successful claim.

What Happens When You File an Insurance Claim for an Old Roof?

How Do Insurance Companies Assess Claims for Older Roofs?

Insurance companies take several factors into account when assessing claims for older roofs:

• Roof Condition: If your roof is well-maintained, you’re more likely to get full coverage.
  
• Age of the Roof: Older roofs may face higher deductibles or reduced coverage, especially if they’re near the end of their lifespan.
  
• Damage Type: Insurers typically cover damage caused by sudden events like storms, but not from neglect or wear and tear.
  

Want to know how insurers assess older roofs? Explore this guide.

What Type of Damage Do Insurers Cover for a 15-Year-Old Roof?

Insurance will usually cover the following types of damage for a 15-year-old roof:

• Storm Damage: Wind, hail, and fallen trees can cause significant damage.
  
• Fire Damage: If your roof is damaged in a fire, it’s typically covered.
  
• Falling Objects: Damage from fallen debris is usually covered.
  
  

However, insurance doesn’t cover damage from normal wear and tear or neglect, such as aging shingles or rotting wood.

For more about roof damage coverage, check out Does Insurance Cover Roof Replacement by Age?.

What Steps Should Homeowners Take to File a Claim?

Filing a roof insurance claim requires careful preparation. Here’s what you should do:

1. Inspect and Document the Damage: It's crucial to inspect and document the damage after a hurricane to ensure your insurance may cover the repairs.: Take high-quality photos of the damage from multiple angles.
   
2. Contact a Trusted Roofing Professional: A reliable roofer can help assess the damage and provide a detailed report for your claim.
   
3. File the Claim with Your Insurer: When filing a claim, ensure you provide evidence of any wind damage or hail damage to expedite the process.: Submit your documentation, roofer’s report, and any relevant details about recent hailstorms to strengthen your claim.
   
4. Schedule an Adjuster’s Visit: Your insurer may send an adjuster to evaluate the damage in person. Be sure your roofer is present to support your claim.
   
   

For more tips on filing a roof insurance claim, refer to this article.

Is Roof Replacement Covered by Home Insurance?

Home insurance typically covers roof replacement if the damage is due to an insured event like a storm. However, general wear and tear or neglect won’t be covered. The insurer may also factor in the age of the roof when determining the replacement cost.

For additional insights on roof replacement and how to handle insurance claims, see How Does Homeowners Insurance Work for Roof Replacement?.

What Conditions Must Be Met for Insurance to Cover Roof Replacement?

• For insurance to cover roof replacement, these conditions must generally be met:
• The Damage is Insured: Only damage from insured events like storms or fire is covered.
  
• Roof is Well-Maintained: Proper maintenance and repairs will increase the likelihood of approval.
  
• Policy Terms: Understanding your policy terms is essential, especially regarding coverage for wind damage and hailstorms.: Some policies may limit coverage for older roofs, so always check your policy details.
  

What is the Difference Between Replacement Cost and Actual Cash Value?

Replacement Cost (RCV) covers the full cost of replacing your roof with a new one, while Actual Cash Value (ACV) deducts for depreciation. If you want full coverage for roof replacement, it's essential to have RCV coverage.

For further details, check out Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value Explained.

How Do Deductibles Affect Roof Replacement Claims?

Your deductible is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket before your insurer covers the rest. For roof claims, especially on older roofs, you may face a higher deductible. Always review your deductible and policy terms before filing a claim.

What to Expect During a Roof Inspection?

A roofing expert will look for:

• Structural Issues: Any damage to the roof’s foundation or support may impact your insurance claim if your roof is over 20 years old.
  
• Shingle Condition: Missing or damaged shingles can indicate significant issues.
  
• Water Damage: Signs of leaks, especially in the attic or walls.
  
  

You may also ask your roofer for a premium assessment of your roof's condition and potential repairs. free roof inspection.

Can Wind and Hail Damage Affect Insurance Coverage?

Yes, wind and hail are often covered by home insurance policies, especially if they cause significant damage. The age of the roof can impact the extent of the coverage, as older roofs may be more susceptible to damage.

To learn more, check out our guide on how to get a free roof inspection from a qualified contractor. coverage guide.

How Can Homeowners Prepare for Roof Insurance Claims?

Here’s how to be ready for your roof insurance claim:

• Document Everything: Take photos of any damage immediately after a storm.
  
• Work with a Roofer: A qualified roofer can help assess damage and file a claim.
  
• Keep Maintenance Records: Prove that your roof has been well-maintained.

What Are the Lifespan Expectations for Different Roofing Materials?

Roof lifespan varies depending on the material used:

• Asphalt Shingles: 20-25 years
  
• Metal Roofs: 40-70 years
  
• Tile Roofs: 50+ years
  
  

A 15-year-old asphalt shingle roof is nearing the end of its lifespan but can still be insurable with proper maintenance.

Conclusion

A 15-year-old roof is often insurable, provided it’s well-maintained and the damage is caused by a covered event. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can keep your roof covered under your insurance policy, especially if it's likely to cover damages from hailstorms. If you need help with an inspection or filing a claim, don’t hesitate to contact Trake Roofing for expert advice and assistance.