Can You Still Get Homeowners Insurance with a Bad Roof?
A roof in poor condition can cause more than just leaks—it can put your entire home at risk. For homeowners looking to secure or renew insurance, a bad roof might feel like a dealbreaker. But is it really?
At SimpliInsured, we’ve helped countless clients navigate tricky scenarios like these. Whether your roof is aging, damaged, or just due for an upgrade, there are still ways to protect your home and your investment.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
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Why roof condition matters to insurance companies
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How a bad roof affects your policy and premiums
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What options you have
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Tips to increase your chances of getting coverage
Let’s get started.
Why Roof Condition Is So Important to Insurers
Homeowners insurance is all about managing risk. The worse the roof, the higher the risk for damage, water intrusion, mold, and costly claims. Insurers know this—and they price and approve policies accordingly.
Here are a few ways your roof impacts your insurance:
1. Risk of Water Damage
A compromised roof can easily lead to leaks, which may cause mold, rotting, and structural issues. Water-related claims are among the most common and costly for insurers.
2. Age and Material Type
Most roofs last 15–30 years, depending on the material. A 30-year-old asphalt roof, for example, is a red flag. Metal or tile roofs last longer and may reduce premiums.
3. Hurricane, Hail, and Wind Resistance
If you live in a high-risk weather area, insurers will want to know whether your roof is up to code. Some may even require specific materials or reinforcements.
Can You Get Insurance with a Bad Roof?
Yes—but it depends.
Some insurers may:
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Deny your application
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Issue a limited policy (excluding roof-related damage)
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Require a roof inspection
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Ask you to repair or replace the roof before final approval
However, other insurers—like SimpliInsured—offer flexible solutions based on your situation.
5 Smart Steps to Get Coverage with a Bad Roof
Even if your roof isn’t in perfect shape, these steps can help you secure insurance:
1. Get a Roof Inspection Report
Hire a licensed roofer or inspector to evaluate the condition of your roof. Their report provides a third-party assessment and helps insurers understand the level of risk.
Tip: Include photos, repair history, and maintenance logs.
2. Disclose Everything Honestly
Being upfront with your insurer about your roof’s condition is key. Hiding damage can result in denied claims or policy cancellation.
3. Look for High-Risk Insurance Providers
Some companies specialize in insuring high-risk properties. These may come with higher premiums but offer coverage when others won’t.
At SimpliInsured, we work with a network of providers that can offer options for homes with older or damaged roofs.
4. Consider Partial Repairs
If full replacement isn’t possible, tackle critical repairs like sealing leaks or replacing damaged shingles. Even minor improvements can reduce your insurance risk.
5. Explore a Roof Replacement Plan
Some homeowners qualify for financing or assistance programs to replace their roof. It’s a big investment—but one that pays off in home value and lower premiums.
How a Bad Roof Affects Your Homeowners Insurance
Let’s break down the main impacts:
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Premium Cost | Higher premiums to offset risk |
| Coverage Type | May exclude roof damage or set lower claim limits |
| Policy Term | May be limited (e.g., 6-month temporary policy) |
| Inspection Frequency | Insurers may require regular roof updates or re-inspections |
If your roof is flagged as “uninsurable,” it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You may qualify for state FAIR plans (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements), which provide last-resort coverage—though at higher costs and limited benefits.
How SimpliInsured Can Help
At SimpliInsured, we specialize in personalized solutions—even when things aren’t perfect.
Here’s how we help homeowners with bad roofs:
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Risk Assessment: We evaluate your home’s roof and overall structure to match you with the right policy.
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Provider Matching: We work with flexible insurers who understand older homes and roof challenges.
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Guided Claims Assistance: If your roof is already causing problems, we help you file and manage claims smoothly.
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Repair + Coverage Strategy: We can advise on affordable roof repairs that make insurance easier to obtain.
We treat each client’s case individually—no cookie-cutter responses here.
Common Questions We Get
❓Will insurance cover my roof if it’s already leaking?
Most standard policies don’t cover existing damage. But they may cover further damage if the cause is sudden and accidental. Always ask your provider.
❓How old is “too old” for a roof?
Generally, roofs over 20 years old (asphalt) or 40 years (metal or tile) raise flags. But some policies may still be available with higher deductibles or inspections.
❓What happens if I don’t disclose roof damage?
Failing to disclose roof issues can result in:
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Claim denial
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Policy cancellation
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Legal issues for misrepresentation
Transparency is always the best policy.
❓Can I switch insurers with a bad roof?
Yes, but you’ll face similar scrutiny. Switching works best if your roof has improved or you find a more flexible insurer.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Bad Roof Stop You
A bad roof doesn’t mean you can’t get homeowners insurance—but it does mean you need to be strategic. With the right steps, documents, and support, it’s absolutely possible.
At SimpliInsured, we understand that not every home is perfect. That’s why we offer personalized options for real-life situations—like yours.
📞 Need help insuring your home? Contact SimpliInsured today for a free consultation and get covered—no matter your roof’s story.
✅ Disclaimer:
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Please consult with a licensed agent at SimpliInsured to discuss your specific coverage needs.