Should you choose ACV or RCV roof coverage?
Short answer. Replacement cost (RCV) roof coverage usually protects you far better, because a storm claim pays the full cost of a new roof minus only your deductible, provided you complete the work. ACV roof coverage costs less but leaves you paying depreciation, which is small on a new roof and large on an older one, so it fits best when the roof is new or you could comfortably cover the gap.
Questions that decide it
- How old is the roof? On a two-year-old roof, depreciation is small, so ACV terms cost little. On a 15-year-old roof, depreciation can be most of the claim.
- What is the premium difference? Ask your agent for both quotes in writing.
- What is your deductible? A percentage wind and hail deductible plus ACV terms can make a roof claim pay very little.
- How often does hail hit your area? Georgia sees hail every year, so a roof claim is a realistic event, not a remote one.
- Could you cover the gap? If a storm meant paying a large share of a new roof yourself, RCV coverage is worth more to you.
Common situations
- New roof: ACV terms carry less risk for now, but ask whether coverage improves later or must be requested.
- Mid-life roof: RCV coverage tends to matter most here, because depreciation is meaningful and a storm is likely before the roof wears out.
- Old roof: insurers may offer only ACV or a payment schedule. Replacing the roof often opens better options.
Remember the conditions
RCV coverage pays held-back depreciation only after the work is done, and many policies set a time limit for completing it. If you will not replace the roof after a claim, you collect only the ACV either way.
Compare the math in ACV vs RCV roof claims and see roof age and insurance. You can check your area's hail history on the free North Georgia Hail Map.