Will Insurance Cover A 20 Year-Old Roof? (2025)

Homeownership comes with plenty of unforeseen challenges, and one of the most significant is maintaining your roof. Over time, wear and tear are inevitable, and the question on many homeowners’ minds is, “Will insurance cover a 20-year-old roof?” This blog will answer that question and guide you through everything you need to know about how insurance works for older roofs, including:

• How insurance companies assess roof coverage
• Steps to file a roof insurance claim successfully
• The benefits of a professional roofing contractor, like Greentek Roofing, to handle repairs or replacement

🤔 Understanding Insurance Coverage for a 20-Year-Old Roof

When evaluating roof insurance claims, insurers typically focus on three key factors: the roof’s age, its current condition, and the cause of damage. Older roofs, like those around 20 years old, may have limited coverage or exclusions due to wear and tear. Insurers will assess how well the roof has been maintained and whether the damage is from a covered event, such as a storm, or simply due to aging and neglect.

The Roof’s Age: Most insurance companies have a benchmark—roofs younger than 15 to 20 years are more likely to qualify for full coverage, including replacement costs. For older roofs, insurers tend to pay out based on actual cash value (ACV), which accounts for depreciation.

Maintenance History: Your insurance provider may request evidence of regular roof maintenance and inspections. A well-maintained older roof stands a better chance of being covered than one that has been neglected.

Type of Damage: Policies typically cover sudden and accidental damage, such as storm or hail damage. Regular wear and tear, on the other hand, is not covered.

Why Age Matters

A 20-year-old roof is often nearing (or past) the end of its lifespan, especially if it’s made of asphalt shingles. Insurance companies consider older roofs a higher liability, meaning:

• Coverage for full replacements may be denied outright.
• Higher deductibles could apply.
• Some insurers may even cancel or refuse to renew your policy if a roof inspection reveals significant deterioration.

Regular maintenance and documentation can increase the likelihood of successful claims, even for aging roofs.

🛠️ 6 Steps to File a Roof Insurance Claim

When disaster strikes, knowing how to file an insurance claim properly can save you time, stress, and money. A well-executed claim ensures you get the coverage you need to repair or replace your roof without unnecessary delays. Follow these six detailed steps for a smoother, more effective process:

1. Assess the Damage

The first step is to safely evaluate the extent of the damage to your roof. Use binoculars or inspect from the ground to look for missing shingles, dents, holes, leaks, or fallen debris. Check the surrounding area for signs of damage, like broken gutters or pieces of shingles on the ground. Avoid climbing onto your roof, as it may not be stable after the damage. If the roof is severely compromised, wait for a professional to conduct a safe inspection. Taking this step early helps you understand the scope of the damage and ensures you avoid further risks.

2. Review Your Insurance Policy

Before moving forward, take the time to review your homeowner’s insurance policy. Look for details about what kinds of roof damage are covered, including information about exclusions. For instance, some policies may not cover damage caused by wear and tear, improper maintenance, or an aging roof. Pay attention to your deductible, as this is the amount you’ll need to cover out of pocket. Knowing what is and isn’t covered will give you a better idea of what to expect and help you avoid surprises during the claims process.

3. Document the Damage

Thorough documentation is key to filing a successful claim. Take clear, high-quality photos and videos of all visible damage, including missing shingles, dents, leaks, water stains, broken gutters, or any structural issues caused by fallen branches or debris. Capture multiple angles and close-ups for a comprehensive record. Don’t forget to document the interior of your home if there’s water damage or leaks affecting the ceiling or walls. This evidence strengthens your claim and ensures the insurance company has all the information needed to assess the situation.

4. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Once you’ve assessed and documented the damage, reach out to your insurance company immediately. Many policies require you to notify them within a specific time frame, so don’t delay. When contacting your provider, be prepared to explain what caused the damage (e.g., a storm, hail, or fallen tree), when it occurred, and the extent of the damage. Provide them with all relevant details, and let them know you’ve documented the situation with photos and videos. Your insurer will guide you through the next steps, including scheduling an adjuster’s inspection.

5. Schedule a Roofing Inspection

Hire a professional roofing contractor to perform a thorough inspection of your roof. A trained contractor, like Greentek Roofing, can identify additional issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye. They’ll provide a detailed written report and an estimate for repairs or replacement. Having this information is invaluable, as it gives you a second opinion and ensures you’re fully aware of the damage. Some contractors may even assist with communicating directly with your insurer to streamline the claims process.

6. Submit Your Claim and Follow Up

With all the necessary documentation in hand, submit your claim to your insurance company. Include your photos, videos, the roofing contractor’s report, and any other required paperwork. Ensure your claim is as detailed as possible to avoid delays. After submitting, follow up regularly to check on the progress. Stay proactive and responsive to any additional requests from your insurer. Prompt communication can help speed up the approval process and get your repairs started sooner.

🏚️ When Should You Consider Replacing a 20-Year-Old Roof?

A roof is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting you and your family from the elements. But as it ages, it becomes less reliable and more prone to issues like leaks, structural damage, or energy inefficiency. Even if your insurance partially covers repairs, there comes a point when replacing an aging roof is the smarter long-term investment.

A new roof offers several benefits that go beyond just keeping your home dry. It can significantly increase your property’s value, making your home more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell. Modern roofing materials are also designed with energy efficiency in mind, helping to lower your heating and cooling costs by improving insulation. And, of course, there’s the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is prepared to withstand heavy rain, strong winds, and even severe storms.

If your roof is 20 years old or older, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan, especially if it’s made of standard asphalt shingles. Over time, roofing materials deteriorate, leaving your home vulnerable to leaks and other damages. Replacing your roof before major problems occur can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly emergency repairs. It can also help you avoid future complications with your homeowner’s insurance. Some insurance providers may raise premiums or refuse coverage altogether for roofs that are too old or in disrepair.

Proactively replacing your roof is a worthwhile investment. Not only does it ensure the safety and integrity of your home, but it can also lead to substantial savings down the road—both on unexpected repair costs and potentially on your homeowner’s insurance premiums. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to replace your roof, consider scheduling an inspection with a professional roofer who can assess its current condition and provide guidance on the best course of action.

🙌 Why Replacing a 20-Year-Old Roof is a Smart Investment with Greentek Roofing

Proactive measures are key for insurance coverage on a 20-year-old roof. While insurance might cover some repairs, opting for a roof replacement can be a smarter long-term investment, boosting property value, energy efficiency, and peace of mind. At Greentek Roofing, we’re the team you can trust for all your roofing needs. With extensive experience, professional expertise, and a commitment to quality, we make roof replacement a seamless, hassle-free process. Contact us today for a comprehensive roof assessment and discover how we deliver top-tier craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Take the first step toward a secure, reliable roof built to last. Schedule your consultation with Greentek Roofing now!