UPTICK IN POLICY CANCELLATIONS DUE TO ROOF ISSUES

Have you or someone you know received a non-renewal letter from your insurance carrier stating that they will no longer provide coverage due to the condition of the roof?

It’s somewhat common knowledge that cancellations of your homeowner’s insurance policy may occur as a result of local dangers like wildfires, missed premium payments, and other problems but is it true they can really not renew your policy due to something as simple as lack of upkeep on the roof? Let’s dive deeper.

CAN THEY REALLY CANCEL MY INSURANCE POLICY?

Homeowner’s insurance coverage may be canceled by an insurance provider for a number of reasons, most commonly because you or your property have become too much of a risk. Home insurance premiums are determined by risk; the greater your risk, the greater your premiums.

Risks can include an increase in violent storms, flooding, poor home or roof upkeep that causes damage, or making an excessive number of claims. If this occurs, the insurance provider may decide not to renew or terminate your coverage. Many insurance companies may recommend roof repairs prior to non renewal or cancellation. They may also require a replacement of the roof as a term prior to providing coverage — All in the name of preventing further loss or great expense on their part. 

WHAT TYPES OF ROOF CONDITIONS MIGHT RESULT IN CANCELLATION OF MY INSURANCE COVERAGE?

• Roof leaks, multiple leaks over time (especially if they involve a claim)
• Storm related damage that was never repaired
• A roof that is older than 20 years
• Too many roof repair claims in too short a span of time

What’s the difference between a non renewal letter and a cancellation letter?

The difference between non renewal and cancellation is really when the cancellation occurs, as both involve the insurance company canceling your policy.

Non renewal is when the insurance company decides not to renew your policy at the end of the term. Essentially, they are canceling your policy effective on the last day of the current policy term. Most “cancellations” are actually non renewals.

There are only a few instances when an insurance company can drop you during the term. They usually involve things like insurance fraud or non payment of premiums. Even in an “immediate” cancellation, the insurance company is required by law to give you notice so you can find new coverage.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I RECEIVE A NON RENEWAL LETTER FROM MY INSURANCE PROVIDER BECAUSE OF THE CONDITION OF MY ROOF?

There are some things you can do to get the ball moving right away. Start by getting a second opinion from a licensed roofing professional. If the insurance company is saying the roof on your older home is too aged at 20 years old, for example, bring in a professional roofer and have them do a roof inspection. When using a reputable roofer, these are typically free. 

This can help you present a stronger argument to the insurance company.

If the roofing professionals agree with your home insurance company, then you need to make the roof repairs or replacements necessary to restore your home insurance policy, whether that means roof repair or replacement. No insurer will want to cover you if your home has an older roof that needs to be replaced because there’s a high risk they’ll have to pay out for damages. Water damage to a home’s interior is very common with a leaky or damaged roof, and a windstorm coupled with an old roof could do serious damage to your home. Address all the unacceptable risks that your insurer points out.

If it is indeed a termination of service and you are unable to obtain your old coverage back, ask your neighbors whose insurance providers they use. Get online and compare free quotes from various insurance companies. You can also get a list of insurers that write coverage in your area by contacting your state’s insurance department.

If you are uncertain about the condition of your roof and would like a professional roof inspection, give RRCA a call by dialing (888) 546-8389 or send us a message online.

We have offices located in Naples, Pensacola, Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando, Rockledge, Sebring, Tampa, Covington or Houma. We are a local, preferred contractor looking to provide our local communities with high quality roofing repair and replacement services. We provide both commercial and residential service. If you would like to schedule an inspection with a roofing expert or speak to our customer service team, give us a call or send us a message online.