Roof Claim Answers

Which roof ratings matter for insurance?

Short answer. The ratings that most often affect your premium are the roof's age, its impact rating (UL 2218 Class 4 earns discounts with some insurers), and its fire class (Class A is standard for most modern roofs). Many insurers also score roof condition from aerial imagery, so a well maintained roof can matter as much as any product label.

Product ratings

For how impact ratings relate to real storms, see hail size and roof damage.

Roof age

For many insurers, the most important roof factor is age. Rating plans often step premiums up as asphalt roofs pass certain ages and may change claim settlement terms; see roof age and insurance.

Condition scores from above

Many insurers now review aerial or satellite images and score roof condition based on visible staining, missing shingles, patches, debris, tarps, and overhanging trees. A poor score can trigger an inspection request, a surcharge, or a non-renewal even if you have never filed a claim. Keeping the roof clean and repaired helps here.

How to prove your ratings

  1. Find the exact product name on your invoice or warranty registration.
  2. Download the manufacturer's product data sheet showing the impact, fire, and wind classifications.
  3. Keep a photo of a shingle bundle wrapper if you have one.
  4. Send these with the install date to your agent and ask which credits apply.

If a rating depends on a specific installation method, such as enhanced nailing for a wind rating, ask your roofer to note it on the invoice. Some impact discounts also come with a cosmetic damage exclusion, so read the endorsement.

In depth

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