Insurers evaluate the age of the roof, its condition and the type of material used when determining eligibility for full roof coverage or the amount they will pay in case of roof damage. Some materials are more likely to cause minor problems, such as a lack of roof tiles, while others are better able to withstand strong winds, hail damage, and extreme weather events that often affect the Atlanta area. Does the age of your roof affect insurance rates? Of course, and the impact can be significant for your wallet. Insurance companies consider older roofs to be riskier assets and often increase premiums by 5 to 15% once the roof turns 15 and, potentially, by 25 to 50% to 20 years old.
Many insurance providers even refuse full coverage for roofs older than 25 years, regardless of their apparent status. This is because aged roofs are more susceptible to weather damage, leaks and structural failures, leading to costly claims. The age, material and shape of your home's roof can have a significant impact on your home insurance rate. If your roof is new and made of durable materials, such as metal or slate, your homeowners policy may cost less than if you have an older roof, which may be more susceptible to damage and pose a risk to homeowners insurance companies. In some cases, the insurer may inspect the roof before issuing a policy.
Atlanta's location, in what some forecasters call Dixie Alley, means that homes are at greater risk of tornadoes and severe windstorms, making the condition of the roof even more critical for insurers. Many insurance companies recommend or even require that roofs be inspected regularly, especially if the roof approaches age 15 in Atlanta's difficult climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and occasional winter storms. New View Roofing is a veteran-owned Dallas roofing company that covers all of North Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. If you're wondering if your policy will cover the bill for repairing or replacing a 20-year-old roof, you're in the right place.
Before filing a claim, it is recommended that homeowners take photographs of any damage, provide a record of all maintenance and repairs, and be prepared to provide a detailed history of the roof's age, original materials and any updates that have been made. Some policies cover the cost of replacing the roof and cover the cost of a full replacement, while others only provide the actual cash value, which subtracts the depreciation based on the age of the roof. What begins as a simple decision to delay the replacement of a new roof quickly becomes a complex financial burden affecting multiple aspects of owning a housing. If your roofing materials are of higher quality and are more likely to last 30 years, you'll have an even better case and deserve a full replacement.
The ACV represents the value of the roof at the time of damage, taking into account the depreciation, which often doesn't cover the full cost of a new roof. Insurance inspectors approach the roof with a critical eye trained to detect problems that may not be visible from the entrance of the house. Schedule a free roof inspection today and take proactive steps to protect your Atlanta home and your coverage. Insurance companies usually consider the type of roof, the degree of damage, the age of the roof, previous maintenance, and whether the damage falls within the covered hazards.
If you have leaks, missing roof tiles, or roof materials are aging, understanding how to repair an asphalt roof can save time and money. Routine roof maintenance is one of the best things an Atlanta homeowner can do to preserve the condition of the roof and maintain insurance coverage. Slate, tile, concrete, tile or metal roofs offer better protection against weather hazards than roofs made of wood.
