Should I tell my insurance company about a new roof?

Why it matters

Insurers rate your home partly on the age of the roof in their file. If that file still shows the old roof, you may be paying for risk you no longer have, or carrying terms meant for an aging roof, such as actual cash value settlement or a roof payment schedule. Updating the record can unlock a better rating tier at renewal, and some carriers apply the change mid term.

What to send your agent

• The final invoice or contract showing the completion date.
• The building permit and final inspection, if your city or county requires one.
• The shingle manufacturer, product line and any impact rating such as UL 2218 Class 4.
• The manufacturer warranty registration and the roofer's workmanship warranty.
• A few photos of the finished roof.

If the roof was replaced through a claim

The carrier already paid for it, but that does not always mean the underwriting file was updated. Confirm with your agent that the roof year changed, especially before renewal.

Ask about discounts

If you chose an impact-resistant shingle, ask specifically whether your insurer offers a credit for it and what proof they need. Also ask whether your wind and hail deductible or roof settlement terms change now that the roof is new. See roof age and insurance for how age thresholds affect coverage.