The expected lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is between 15 to 30 years. Roofs can become damaged as time goes by, and when this happens, it can affect insurance rates.
If you need to make a claim on your roof or if you're starting a new homeowners insurance policy, you may need to make a roof inspection. A roof inspection can affect the insurance premiums that you have, so you need to know what to expect.
Below we'll tell you why roof inspection for insurance is necessary.
What Is a Roof Inspection?
During a roof inspection, an inspector will take a close look at your roof and assess its condition.
They'll do this by examining various factors and will analyze the roof's structural integrity and performance. They'll check your roof thoroughly to discover signs of damage and decay and will determine its overall condition.
There are many different things that a roof inspector may pay attention to during their assessment. This includes roofing materials, decking, flashing, ventilation, caulking, gutters, chimneys, skylights, and seams.
Checking all of these different elements of your roof can allow an inspector to get a good idea of its condition as well as its market value.
With this information, an insurance company will have a much better impression of your roof's condition. They can use the information to determine premiums and decide whether to accept a claim.
Why Do You Need a Roofing Inspection?
Insurance companies may request a roofing inspection if you're renewing a policy or getting a new one. Home insurance companies often require an annual roof inspection to maintain a policy. You may also need to get your roof inspected if you're filing an insurance claim on your roof.
An insurance company will use an inspection to verify that your roof is in good condition and determine the premiums you'll pay for your roof insurance policy. If your roof is in poor condition, made of low-quality materials, or in need of a replacement, your insurance premium is likely to go up drastically.
Getting a roof inspection when requested can help you demonstrate that your roof is in good condition. It can help ensure that your monthly insurance premiums will stay as low as possible.
Benefits of Roof Inspections
In addition to verifying the condition of your roof, there are other benefits to getting a roof inspection as well.
A roof inspection will help you catch minor roof problems that can turn into larger structural issues later on. This can help you take better care of your roof, follow roof maintenance tips, and increase your roof's lifespan while keeping it more energy efficient.
Because a roof inspection will be cheaper than a roof repair, it can save you a lot of money as well. This is because you'll be able to catch problems and fix them in a timely manner before they become more costly to fix.
Roof Factors That Affect Insurance
There are many different factors that can affect your home insurance premiums. Here are some of the main things that can affect home insurance.
Current Condition
The condition of your roof can make a big impact on your premium. If you want to have a low premium, you need to be sure that your roof is in good condition and has reliable performance.
If your roof is worn and is cracking, then it may lead to a higher home insurance premium.
Roof Age
The age of your roof also plays a part in your home insurance premium as well.
If your roof has gotten on in years, then it can be more risky than a brand-new roof. This can cause your insurance premiums to go up.
Region
Keep in mind that you'll likely need to pay a higher insurance premium if you live in a place that often experiences harsh weather conditions.
Harsh weather can cause a lot of damage to a roof and can increase wear and tear. This increased risk could lead to a higher cost of homeowners insurance as well.
What to Do About Denied Claims
If you filed an insurance claim, it could get denied if your roof fails inspection. If you have neglected to take care of your roof properly or if there was pre-existing damage then the insurance company may not accept your claim.
In many cases, there's nothing you can do about this. If your claim isn't accepted, however, there are some things that you can do to have a chance at reversing the decision.
If you gather documentation that you have been maintaining the roof properly, then you may be able to reverse the decision. Alternatively, you may be able to get an inspection from a second inspector. Hiring roof inspection services may allow you to get the claim reopened and reverse the denial.
Finally, you may be able to get legal help with the claim. An attorney can help you communicate with your insurance company more effectively and may help get the claim accepted.
Can You Get Insurance for Old Roofs?
Although replacing your roof can be expensive, doing so can lead to lower home insurance rates. A new roof will be more likely to protect your home from the elements and will be less risky, so it'll be more attractive to insurance companies.
You can get homeowners insurance with an older roof, but the process will be more difficult. You'll also likely end up paying a higher premium. Some insurance companies will refuse to cover a roof that's 20 years old or more.
No matter how old your roof is, it's possible to get insurance for it. However, you'll need to compare your options and find out what's available for your particular situation.
Getting a Roof Inspection for Insurance
If you need to get a roof inspection for insurance, you should understand the benefits that it has. By getting a roof inspection, you'll be able to prove to your insurance company that your roof is in good shape. You'll also be able to increase the lifespan of your roof and can catch problems before they become more serious.
Looking for a roofing company in Sacramento? Contact Garner Roofing today to learn more about what we can do for you.