Can My Insurance Company Require Me to Replace My Roof?

Yes, an insurance company may require you to repair or replace your roof before it renews your homeowners insurance policy.

Insurance companies inspect roofs because an old, damaged, or poorly maintained roof presents a higher risk of leaks and future insurance claims. However, receiving a roof replacement notice does not always mean that your entire roof must automatically be replaced.

Why Would an Insurance Company Require a New Roof?

Your insurance company may be concerned about:

• The age of the roof

• Missing, cracked, lifted, or damaged shingles

• Active roof leaks

• Previous repairs or patches

• Moss, deterioration, or poor maintenance

• Damaged flashing or roof components

• The remaining life expectancy of the roof

The age and condition of a roof can affect whether an insurance company is willing to insure the property and how roof damage may be covered.

Can the Insurance Company Cancel My Policy?

There is an important difference between cancellation and nonrenewal.

Cancellation normally means that the company ends your policy before its expiration date. Nonrenewal means that the company decides not to continue the policy when the current term ends.

In Virginia, an insurance company generally has limited reasons for canceling an owner-occupied homeowners policy after its first 90 days. However, the company may decide not to renew the policy at the end of its term, provided it sends the required written notice explaining the reason.

What Should You Do After Receiving a Notice?

First, read the notice carefully. It should explain why the insurance company is requiring repairs or considering nonrenewal.

Next, contact the company or your insurance agent and ask:

• Which areas of the roof are causing concern?

• Is a repair acceptable, or is full replacement required?

• What documentation do they need?

• What is the deadline for completing the work?

• Will they accept a professional roof inspection?

Do not assume that you need a full roof replacement before getting more information.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

A professional roofing contractor can evaluate the roof and determine its actual condition.

The inspection may identify:

• Missing or damaged shingles

• Roof leaks

• Damaged flashing

• Problems around vents and pipe boots

• Areas that may be repaired

• Signs that the roof is near the end of its useful life

The contractor can also provide photos, an inspection report, and an estimate. You can send this documentation to your insurance company to show that the required repairs or replacement were completed.

What if the Roof Is Still in Good Condition?

If the inspection shows that the roof is still serviceable, ask your insurance company whether it will reconsider its decision after reviewing the inspection report.

You may also ask for a second inspection or request a written explanation of the specific condition that makes the roof unacceptable.

In Virginia, the insurer must provide a reason when it refuses, cancels, or does not renew homeowners coverage. Homeowners who believe a cancellation or nonrenewal was improper may contact the Virginia Bureau of Insurance for assistance.

Can You Change Insurance Companies?

Yes. You can contact other insurance companies and compare your options. However, another company may also inspect the roof or ask about its age and condition.

If your home has a mortgage, your lender will normally require you to maintain homeowners insurance. Losing your regular coverage could result in lender-placed insurance, which may provide more limited protection and can be more expensive.

Do Not Ignore the Notice

Ignoring the notice could leave your home without insurance coverage. Review the deadline, speak with your insurance company, and schedule a roof inspection as soon as possible.

Storm Shield Roofing provides professional roof inspections, roof repairs, and roof replacements in Richmond and surrounding areas. We can document the condition of your roof and help you understand the work it may need.

This article provides general information and does not replace advice from your insurance agent, insurance company, or legal professional.