Will Insurance Cover a 25-Year-Old Roof?

Insurance Insights for Aging Roofs in Rockwall, TX

If your roof is 25 years old, you're probably wondering: "Can I still get insurance coverage?" Insurance for older roofs can be a bit tricky. At this age, roofs typically face stricter scrutiny from insurers, and coverage may be limited or even denied. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect when insuring a 25-year-old roof, including how depreciation, inspections, and roof maintenance affect coverage.

How Do Insurance Companies Assess Claims for Older Roofs?

What Type of Damage Do Insurers Cover for a 25-Year-Old Roof?

For a 25-year-old roof, insurers typically cover:

• Storm Damage: Damage from wind, hail, or fallen trees is usually covered.
• Fire Damage: If your roof is damaged in a fire, it will likely be covered.
• Falling Objects: Objects like tree branches that cause roof damage are usually covered.

However, damage caused by wear and tear or neglect will generally not be covered.

What Steps Should Homeowners Take to File a Claim?

Filing a claim for an older roof is similar to filing for a newer one, but there are a few extra steps to ensure success:

1. Inspect and Document the Damage: Take clear photos of the damage and keep detailed notes.
2. Contact a Trusted Roofing Professional: A roofer with experience in insurance claims can help assess the damage and create a report for the insurer.
3. File the Claim: Submit the necessary documentation, including photos and the roofer’s report.
4. Schedule an Adjuster’s Visit: The insurer will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage.

For more on how to handle roof insurance claims, check out How Does Homeowners Insurance Work for Roof Replacement?.

Is Roof Replacement Covered by Home Insurance?

Insurance will generally cover roof replacement if the damage is caused by a covered event, such as a storm or fire. However, a roof’s age plays a significant role. For older roofs like those that are 25 years old, insurers may offer a payout based on Actual Cash Value (ACV), which factors in depreciation, instead of Replacement Cost Value (RCV), which would cover the full cost of a new roof.

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

For insurance to cover roof replacement, these conditions must typically be met:

• Damage from Insured Events: The damage must be caused by an event covered by the policy (e.g., storm, fire).
• Roof is Well-Maintained: Insurers prefer roofs that have been regularly inspected and maintained.
• Policy Terms: Review your policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered, especially for roofs of a certain age.



To understand more about coverage conditions, visit Best Roofs for Insurance and Coverage Details.

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

The main difference between Replacement Cost Value (RCV) and Actual Cash Value (ACV) is depreciation:

• RCV pays for the full cost of replacing the roof with a new one.
• ACV deducts depreciation from the payout, which means you’ll receive less money for an older roof.

If you want the best coverage for roof replacement, RCV is the way to go. Learn more in Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value Explained.

How Do Deductibles Affect Roof Replacement Claims?

A deductible is the amount you’ll need to pay before your insurance kicks in. For older roofs, especially those over 20 years old, insurers may apply a higher deductible, which could significantly affect the payout for roof repairs or replacement. Always check your deductible terms before filing a claim.

For more info on how deductibles affect roof claims, check out When You Must Pay Your Deductible for Roof Coverage.

What to Expect During a Roof Inspection?

Roof inspections are crucial for older roofs. A roofing expert will:

• Assess the Roof’s Condition: Inspect shingles, flashing, and other elements for damage.
• Check for Leaks: Inspect both the exterior and interior for signs of water damage.
• Look for Structural Issues: Ensure the roof is structurally sound.

You may also want to schedule a free roof inspection to ensure your roof remains insurable.

Can Wind and Hail Damage Affect Insurance Coverage?

Wind and hail damage can be covered by insurance, even for older roofs. However, the extent of coverage can depend on the roof’s condition and age. Insurers may offer a reduced payout for roofs that are 25 years old, particularly if the damage is not caused by a covered peril like a storm.



For more on wind and hail damage, visit Does Insurance Cover Roof Replacement by Age?.

How Can Homeowners Prepare for Roof Insurance Claims?

To prepare for a successful roof insurance claim, homeowners should:

• Document Everything: Take photos of all damage immediately after a storm or other covered event.
• Work with a Professional Roofer: An experienced roofer can help assess damage and file the claim.
• Keep Maintenance Records: Keep a log of all roof inspections, repairs, and maintenance to show your insurer.

What Are the Lifespan Expectations for Different Roofing Materials?

The lifespan of your roof depends on the materials used:

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

At 25 years, an asphalt roof is nearing the end of its lifespan but may still be insurable with proper maintenance.



Conclusion

While insuring a 25-year-old roof can be more challenging, it’s not impossible. With regular inspections, prompt repairs, and detailed maintenance records, your roof may remain insurable. Contact Trake Roofing today for expert advice, inspections, and assistance with roof insurance claims.