Will insurance cover an old roof?
Short answer. Insurance covers an old roof for sudden damage from a covered event like hail or wind, as long as the policy is in force. It never pays to replace a roof just because it is old or worn out. Age mainly affects how much you are paid and how closely the adjuster checks whether the damage is storm or wear.
What age does and does not change
- Does not change: whether hail or wind damage is a covered peril. A 22 year old roof hit by hail last month has a covered loss.
- Does change: the payout (through depreciation or a payment schedule), the scrutiny (wear exclusions come into play), and your options at renewal.
Payout by settlement type
- Replacement cost: full cost minus deductible, with depreciation paid after completion.
- Actual cash value: replacement cost minus depreciation, permanently.
- Payment schedule: a percentage that falls as the roof ages.
See roof age and insurance and ACV vs RCV.
The scrutiny problem
Old roofs show granule loss, cracking and curling. An adjuster may call storm marks wear, or approve only the slopes facing the storm. Clear photos of fresh fractures, dented vents and gutters, and the storm date make the difference. See wear and tear vs hail damage.
Renewal and insurability
Some insurers ask for roof inspections, change the roof's settlement terms, or decline to write policies on older roofs. Georgia's Insurance Commissioner has reminded carriers that nonrenewals need a written reason and that coverage reductions require a separate notice. If you get one, call your agent and ask what would resolve it, which is often a repair or a replacement.