If you’re like most Florida homeowners, you probably think about your roof insurance every time there’s a severe storm. After all, a new roof can be one of the most expensive home repairs. But what do you do if your roof is old and needs to be replaced? Is it still worth it to get insurance? Can you even find a company that will cover an old roof? Let’s take a closer look at this dilemma and see what options are available to you.
Can you insure a 15 year old roof in Florida?
The short answer is yes, but it may not be worth it. Home insurance policies typically have a provision that states the insured property must be “of like kind and quality” as the original property. This means that if your home is insured for $200,000, but your roof is only worth $50,000, the insurance company will only pay out $50,000 if your roof is damaged or destroyed. So if you have an old roof that needs to be replaced, you may not want to waste your money on insurance coverage that won’t give you full value for your claim.
What are your other options?
If you’re shopping for home insurance, it’s important to be aware of the laws governing roof coverage. In most cases, insurers are not allowed to automatically deny coverage solely based on the age of a roof, as long as it’s less than 15 years old. Likewise, if the roof has at least five years of life remaining, insurers can’t refuse to issue a policy. However, if your roof is 15 years or older, homeowners with roofs that are 15 years or older must be allowed to have an inspection before requiring a replacement as a condition of writing or renewing the policy. Moreover, the law authorizes property insurers to limit certain roof claim payments under certain circumstances. So if you’re considering home insurance, be sure to ask about the company’s policy on roofs before you commit.
Home insurance companies are hesitant to insure homes with old roofs in Florida.
So if you’re thinking about buying a new policy, or renewing an existing one, it’s important to disclose the age of your roof. The insurance company will likely raise your rates, or even refuse to insure you, if they feel that your old roof is a liability.
If you have an old roof and you can’t find insurance coverage, your best option may be to save up for a new roof. In the meantime, you can take some steps to protect your home from severe weather, such as installing hurricane shutters or trimming trees that could fall on your house. If your home is damaged by a hurricane or other natural
A new roof is important to protect your home from damage.
If you have an old roof, it’s important to think about whether or not insurance is worth the cost. In many cases, it may be better to save up for a new roof than to pay for insurance that won’t give you full value for your claim. Keep in mind that you can take steps to protect your home from severe weather, even if you don’t have insurance.
Getting a deal on a new roof
There are some ways to reduce the cost of a new roof, including negotiating with contractors and getting multiple quotes. You may also be eligible for discounts if you install impact-resistant roofing or certain types of roofing materials.
If you’re thinking about replacing your old roof, it’s important to get multiple quotes and compare prices before you make a decision.
Remember, even if you have an old roof, you can still take steps to protect your home from severe weather.
When that doesn’t work…
If you’re unable to afford a new roof, there are other steps you can take to improve your home’s safety and value. One option is to install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant glass. This can help protect your home from severe weather and may even lower your insurance rates. Another option is to trim trees that could fall on your house during a storm.
While insurance companies are hesitant to insure homes with old roofs, there are some things you can do to make your home safer and more valuable. Installing hurricane shutters or impact-resistant glass can help protect your home from severe weather, and trimming trees that could fall on your house during a storm can also improve your home’s safety. Even if you can’t afford a new roof right away, taking these steps can help you get the coverage you need.
Your Insurance Agent Can Help
Contact your local home insurance company for more information on getting insured with an old roof. You may also want to ask about discounts for impact-resistant roofing or certain types of roofing materials.
If you’re not sure whether or not to insure your old roof, contact us for advice. You may also want to ask about discounts for impact-resistant roofing or certain types of roofing materials. Your agent can help you understand your options and make the best decision for your situation.