Wisconsin Homeowners Guide to Roof Insurance Coverage & Repairs
From heavy winter snowfall to summer storms, roof damage can happen all year round. We handle various types of roof damage here at L.H. Krueger and Son. With over 100 years of roofing experience, we’re well-versed in how insurance companies typically approach homeowner’s policies and roof repairs or replacements.
Here are answers to questions we frequently receive from homeowners wondering about roof coverages. Remember that your policy’s inclusions and requirements may vary, so always check with your provider.
Frequently Asked Questions on Roofs & Homeowners Insurance Policies
Q. Can my homeowners insurance policy be non-renewed due to the age of my roof?
A. Yes, homeowners insurance policies can be non-renewed if the roof is deemed too old. Insurance companies often assess the risk associated with insuring an older roof and may decide that the potential for damage is too high, leading to non-renewal of the policy.
Q. Will my homeowners insurance company cancel my existing policy because of my roof?
A. While it’s less common for an insurance company to cancel an existing policy due to the age of the roof, it can happen if the roof is in particularly poor condition. Most insurers will provide notice and an opportunity to address any issues before cancellation.
Q. What is an unacceptable age for a roof according to homeowners insurance companies?
A. The acceptable age for a roof varies by insurance company and the type of roofing material. Generally, roofs older than 15-20 years may be considered too old for full coverage or a new policy. For existing policies, the time limit on being grandfathered in with an older roof is often unclear and can vary between insurance providers. It’s important to check with your specific insurance company for their exact policy.
Q. Should I be concerned about the age of the roof and my ability to get homeowners insurance when I’m buying a home?
A. Yes, the age and condition of the roof are significant factors in obtaining homeowners insurance. If you’re buying a home with a roof that is older than 15 years, you will likely have difficulty finding an insurer willing to provide coverage. It’s a good idea to have the roof inspected before purchasing the home and consider the cost of potential repairs or replacement.
Q. I heard homeowners insurance companies are no longer covering roofs with 3-tab shingles. Is that correct?
A. This depends on the insurance company and their specific policies. Most insurers are moving away from covering 3-tab shingles due to their lower durability and higher susceptibility to damage. It’s important to check with your insurance provider about their specific coverage criteria.
Q. My neighborhood got hit by hail, and I’m worried about damage to my roof. Should I call my insurance company or a roofer?
A. You should call your insurance company first. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage to your roof. Insurance companies make their own assessments regarding hail damage and do not base their decisions on a contractor’s findings. Once the adjuster has completed their evaluation, they will inform you of the next steps, including whether any repairs are covered under your policy. If you feel a second opinion is necessary, you can then contact a professional roofer, but this should be done after the insurance company has made its initial assessment.
Q. My next-door neighbor has an approved claim for hail damage from their insurance company, but my insurance company said I don’t have any damage. How can that be?
A. There are several reasons why this might occur. Different insurance companies may have varying criteria for what constitutes “damage.” Additionally, the extent and location of the damage can vary significantly from one house to another, even in close proximity. It’s possible that your roof was not impacted as severely, or the damage didn’t meet your insurer’s threshold for coverage. If you disagree with the assessment, consider getting a second opinion from a professional roofer or requesting a re-inspection from your insurance company.
Residential Roof Maintenance & Repairs
Whether you’re looking for preventative maintenance or repairs after roof damage, work with a team of experts that prioritizes quality work. At L.H. Krueger, we’ll make sure your home is protected for years to come by inspecting your roof and recommending the right solution for you.
Having installed over 50,000 roofs in Southeastern Wisconsin, our certified roofing crews are a top choice for insurance companies and homeowners alike.
Contact us for your free roof inspection.
