If your roof is 10 to 15 years old, your homeowner’s insurance might be at risk. Many insurance companies are cancelling policies for homes with aging roofs, even if there’s no significant damage. At J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services, we’ve recently inspected homes in Ankeny and Altoona where homeowners lost coverage simply because of their roof’s age.
Understanding why insurance companies do this—and what you can do about it—can help you avoid unexpected policy cancellations and costly out-of-pocket expenses.
Why Do Insurance Companies Cancel Roof Coverage?
Insurance companies know that most asphalt shingle roofs last about 20 years. As your roof nears this lifespan, it becomes more likely to fail, leading to potential claims. Instead of waiting for damage to occur, some insurers preemptively cancel policies once a roof reaches 15 years old—before it shows significant wear.
This means that by the time your roof is 18 or 19 years old, you might already be without coverage, leaving you exposed to expensive repairs or replacements.
Recent Scenarios We’ve Seen:
- Ankeny homeowner: Their roof wasn’t in bad shape, but their insurance was still cancelled due to age.
- Altoona homeowner: Insurance refused to cover their detached garage unless they replaced both the garage and the house’s roof.
How to Protect Yourself from Losing Coverage
If your roof is nearing 15 years old, act before your insurer does. Here’s what you can do:
1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
At J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services, we provide insurance inspections to assess:
- The current condition of your roof.
- The remaining lifespan of your shingles.
- Whether your insurance company might consider it too old for coverage.
A documented inspection can sometimes help you delay a cancellation or negotiate coverage.
2. Know Your Insurance Policy Terms
Every policy has different guidelines. Some insurers allow roofs up to 20 years old with proof of good condition, while others set strict limits at 15 years. Check your policy or ask your agent about:
- Age limits for coverage.
- Partial vs. full roof replacement requirements.
- Coverage for detached structures (e.g., garages, sheds).
3. Consider Roof Replacement Before It’s Mandatory
Waiting until your insurance cancels coverage can put you in a difficult financial position. Instead of scrambling to replace your roof after losing coverage, it’s often better to plan ahead and replace your roof before your insurer forces you to.
With J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services, you get:
✔ High-quality materials with strong wind and impact warranties.
✔ Expert installation following all manufacturer guidelines.
✔ Flexible financing options from insurance to lenders
CertainTeed Products for Residential )
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If your roof is 10-15 years old, now is the time to take action. Get ahead of potential cancellations by scheduling a professional roof inspection today. We’ll help you understand your roof’s condition, navigate insurance requirements, and make the best decision for your home.
📞 Contact J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services for your inspection today!