Florida homeowners know that the roof is one of the most crucial components of your home. It protects your home from water intrusion, wind damage, falling debris and more, but while doing so, it can suffer damage that can compromise its integrity when the next storm comes through. Because of this, homeowners insurance companies are beginning to become more strict when it comes to paying out claims involving roof damage, including limiting or refusing payouts to homeowners whose roofs have not been replaced for a long time.
As hurricane season gets more intense year over year, insurance claims have increased in both volume and dollar amount. In an attempt to limit their liability, many insurance companies are refusing both policy renewals and new policies for homes with shingle roofs older than 20 years. In Florida, proposed legislation could allow insurers to cancel policies on homes with roofs that are just ten years old.
In many cases, insurance companies will insist that the roof be replaced before issuing a new or renewed policy, and in some cases, homeowners are given less than 60 days to comply. Insurers cite the possibility of underlying roof damage (a home’s “preexisting condition”) as the reasoning behind this blanket rule.
Even if your older roof is found, upon inspection, to be completely intact and free of existing damage, your insurance company can still refuse to cover you due to the age of your roof. Since homeowners with a mortgage are required to carry homeowners insurance, this can get extremely problematic really quickly.
Homeowners associations (HOAs) tend to be very strict when it comes to regulating the appearance of homes in their neighborhood. They can tell you what color your home must be, what trees you’re allowed to have, and yes, they can demand that you buy a new roof to satisfy their aesthetic requirements. If you don’t comply in time to meet their deadline, you could be facing hefty fees in addition to the monthly HOA fees you already pay – or, worst-case scenario, the HOA can place a lien on your home.
Many homeowners find that the deadline provided by their HOA comes way too soon to reasonably get an inspection and quote from reputable contractors, be scheduled and have the roof completed in time to meet said deadline. In some cases, the homeowner could make a convincing case for the HOA to grant an extension, but this is not guaranteed and could escalate to a point which requires lawyers and all the related costs.
Instead of enduring the dread and headaches, contact AKVM to request a same-day in-person inspection and written estimate. In many cases, our roofers can provide expedient roofing repairs or replacement so that your HOA or homeowners insurance company remains satisfied and you don’t lose sleep over potential lasting ramifications related to your home’s roof.