Will insurance cover roof damage if the roof is over 10 years old?
Short answer. Yes. A roof just over 10 years old is usually covered for storm damage the same way a newer roof is, and most such roofs still have plenty of life left. Some policies with roof payment schedules or age based terms begin reducing the payout after the first several years, so check your declarations page and endorsements.
What usually stays the same
Hail, wind, falling trees and the weight of ice and snow are covered perils regardless of roof age. At 10 to 12 years, a quality architectural shingle roof in Georgia is usually in its middle years, and adjusters generally do not expect heavy wear.
What can start to change
- Payment schedules. Some roof schedules reduce the payout percentage starting in the first several years. Look for an endorsement with a table of roof age and percentages. See roof payment schedules.
- Depreciation. On any replacement cost claim, depreciation is held back until the work is done. At 10 years it is significant but recoverable. On actual cash value, it is permanent.
- Underwriting questions. Some carriers ask for roof age at every renewal and change terms in stages as roofs pass certain ages. See roof age and insurance.
Georgia protections to know
Georgia's Insurance Commissioner issued a bulletin in 2024 reminding residential insurers that they may not nonrenew because of a change in eligibility or underwriting rules unless the Commissioner approves it, and may not nonrenew over two or fewer claims in 36 months that were not caused by the insured's negligence or intentional acts. If you get a nonrenewal over roof age, ask for the reason in writing.
Practical steps
- Know your roof's install date and keep the paperwork.
- Ask your agent, in writing, how the roof is settled today.
- After a storm, inspect even if the roof is "only" 10 years old; hail does not care.