Will a new roof lower my insurance?
Short answer. Often, yes. Many insurers charge less for a newer roof and may restore full replacement cost coverage that was limited on an older roof, but the size of the change varies by carrier and you usually have to send proof of the new roof to get it.
Where the savings come from
- Roof age credits. Many rating plans step the premium down as roof age drops, with the biggest differences between roofs under about ten years old and roofs nearing twenty.
- Better settlement terms. An older roof may be paid at actual cash value or on a roof payment schedule. A new roof can move you back to replacement cost, which is worth more than a small premium cut.
- Impact-resistant shingles. Some carriers credit UL 2218 Class 4 shingles. Ask before you choose the product.
- Eligibility. If your insurer was preparing to non-renew because of the roof, a replacement can keep you insured.
Why the bill may not drop
Your premium also reflects rebuilding costs, claims trends in your area and your own claims history. In years when overall rates rise, a new roof may only soften the increase rather than lower the total.
How to get the credit
- Call your agent once the roof is complete.
- Send the invoice with the completion date, the permit if required, and the shingle product details.
- Ask that the roof year be updated in underwriting and ask what changed in your premium and terms.
For age thresholds and how carriers apply them, read roof age and insurance.