Can I get homeowners insurance with a 17 year old roof in Florida?
Asked by: Werner Feil | Last update: January 15, 2026Score: 4.4/5 (65 votes)
For roofs 15 years or older, insurance companies must allow homeowners to obtain an inspection by an authorized inspector before mandating a roof replacement for policy issuance or renewal. Always consult your insurance provider for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their policies on roof age.
What is the new law in Florida about roofs?
Getting full roof replacements covered by insurance is more difficult. In May 2022, Florida's 25% Roof Replacement Rule was eliminated and replaced with Senate Bill 4-D. The law originally stated that if more than 25% of the roof was damaged, the entire roof would need to be replaced to meet code requirements.
How old can a roof be with citizens insurance in Florida?
Citizens Property operates differently: Citizens Property considers a standard or architectural shingle roof old if it has been in place for 25 years or longer. The insurer considers slate, tile, clay, metal, or concrete roofs old if they have been in place for 50 years or longer.
Does the age of the roof affect homeowners insurance?
Generally, the newer the roof, the better your home insurance rate. An older roof can have unforeseen issues such as water damage that can cause deterioration and increase the need for replacement. If your roof is 20 years old or more, some insurance companies will require an inspection before offering coverage.
What makes a home uninsurable in Florida?
Living in a high-risk location, having hazardous home features, home maintenance issues, your home's history of insurance claims, and more can be reasons an insurance company may determine a house to be uninsurable.
Homeowner's Insurance Crisis in Florida. New limits on roof age can leave you with big problems.
Will insurance cover a 17 year old roof in Florida?
For roofs 15 years or older, insurance companies must allow homeowners to obtain an inspection by an authorized inspector before mandating a roof replacement for policy issuance or renewal. Always consult your insurance provider for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their policies on roof age.
Can an insurance company force you to replace your roof?
While an insurance company cannot force you to repair or replace your roof, they can significantly influence your decision through policy terms, safety concerns, and lender requirements. Understanding your insurance policy, the claims process, and your rights as a homeowner is essential in navigating these situations.
Can an insurance company drop you for having an old roof?
The short answer is yes, it can happen. Insurance companies have the right to non-renew or drop your coverage if they believe your roof poses too high of a risk. An insurer can also choose to include a roof exclusion in your policy. We're ready to help you.
Will homeowners insurance pay for a new roof?
Key Takeaways
Most homeowners insurance policies cover roof replacement if the damage is the result of an act of nature or sudden accidental event. Most homeowners insurance policies won't pay to replace or repair a roof that's gradually deteriorating due to wear and tear or neglect.
At what age is a roof considered old?
The age of your roof is one of the most critical facts to uncover. Most roofing experts suggest that roofs will last between 25-30 years. This is a significant investment, so you should find out the exact date when your current roof was installed before you purchase your home.
What is the 15 year roof rule in Florida?
(c) For a roof that is at least 15 years old, an insurer must allow a homeowner to have a roof inspection performed by an authorized inspector at the homeowner's expense before requiring the replacement of the roof of a residential structure as a condition of issuing or renewing a homeowner's insurance policy.
How to get a free roof through insurance?
- Read Your Policy. Before placing a claim, be sure that you have coverage for roofing damage. ...
- Prove Your Roof Is Damaged. ...
- Get a Roof Inspection. ...
- Hire a Respected and Affordable Local Roofing Contractor. ...
- Avoid the Scammers. ...
- Stay in Contact With Your Insurance Agent.
How old does a roof have to be to pass an inspection in Florida?
Florida Insurance Regulations
Currently, insurance companies are required to inspect your home and roof before denying coverage, no matter how old your roof is. Your roof must also show that it has at least five more years of good use left in it, if it is older than 15 years.
What is the 25 rule for roofs in Florida?
Florida Building Code 25% Reroofing Rule
Not more than 25 percent of the total roof area or roof section of any existing building or structure shall be repaired, replaced or recovered in any 12-month period unless the entire roofing system or roof section conforms to requirements of this code.
What are the roofing laws in Florida in 2024?
One of the notable updates in the 2024 Florida roofing laws is the modification of nail penetration requirements. The minimum nail penetration depth has been changed from 3/16 inches to 1/8 inches.
How much does it cost to replace a roof in Florida?
The average roof replacement cost in Florida is between $11,000 and $30,000; most homeowners pay approximately $15,000 to replace existing roofing with a new 2,000 sq. ft. Stone-covered metal roof. The low cost of this project is $9,000 per 2,000 sq.
Can I get homeowners insurance with an old roof?
The health of your roof in particular is a big determining factor as to whether a company will decide to insure you or not. However, even with a bad roof, you can still receive homeowners insurance, it just might come at a higher price.
Why do insurance companies deny roof claims?
Age of roof: If your roof is past its expected lifespan, your insurance company may deny your claim. Most roofs last between 15 and 25 years, depending on the material. Pre-existing damage: If your insurance company determines that the damage to your roof existed before the storm, they may deny your claim.
How to get a new roof without paying deductible?
No matter what a roofer tells you you must pay your deductible. There is no way around it and insurance will consider it insurance fraud if they do. Many homeowners try to find a way around this but there is no way around it. You can also verify this directly with your insurance provider or an attorney.
What makes a roof uninsurable?
Signs of wear and tear, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, sagging, or rot, can make a roof uninsurable. Leaks and Water Damage: A roof that frequently leaks or allows water penetration is highly undesirable to insurance companies.
Why won't insurance cover a 20 year old roof?
The Role of Roof's Age in Insurance Coverage
Roof age significantly impacts insurance coverage. Most insurance companies won't cover roofs older than 20 years. Additionally, if a roof is over 20 years old, insurance may only cover the original cost and not the current replacement cost.
How to negotiate roof replacement with insurance?
- Understand Your Policy. Before negotiating, thoroughly review your insurance policy to understand what's covered and the limits of your coverage. ...
- Document Everything. ...
- Get Multiple Quotes. ...
- Be Persistent but Polite. ...
- Hire a Public Adjuster. ...
- Appeal If Necessary.
How to get a free roof from insurance?
- Photo document noticeable roof damage from the ground. ...
- Review your policy. ...
- Start the claim process with your insurance company. ...
- Get a storm damage inspection from a reputable roofing contractor and adjuster. ...
- Supplement anything missing from the insurance estimate.
How hard is it to get homeowners insurance after being dropped?
It's a daunting task to find new coverage, especially with California fire insurance rates on the rise. Many insurance companies are becoming more selective in the areas they choose to insure, and some are even pulling out of the market altogether.
What is considered an old roof?
For example, an architectural asphalt shingle roof has a manufacturer-stated lifespan of 30 years. Once your roof's age reaches around 80-85% of its maximum lifespan, you'll know it's time to start budgeting for a roof replacement.