Should You Notify Insurance About a New Roof? A Guide to Maximizing Insurance Benefits

The short answer is: Absolutely! And it’s a step that can benefit you in more ways than one. Notifying your insurer about a new roof can lower your insurance premium by 5-35% and ensure you stay fully covered in case of future damage. 

This guide will explain everything you need to know, including why updating your insurance is important, what factors affect your premiums, and the best ways to maximize your insurance benefits.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS 

• Notifying your insurance company about a new roof can lower your premiums by 5-35% – Failing to update your policy may result in higher premiums or claim disputes.
• Roofing material, installation quality, geographical location, and roof age directly impact your insurance premiums– Durable materials can lower premiums, while older roofs may lead to higher costs or limited coverage.
• Investing in impact-resistant materials and hiring a licensed contractor may qualify you for premium discounts and full roof replacement coverage.
• Understanding your insurance policy prevents claim denials – Homeowners’ insurance covers roof replacement when damaged from fire, hail, and windstorms but excludes wear and tear, neglect, and pre-existing issues.

The Importance of  Telling Your Home Insurance Company About a New Roof

Notifying your insurance company about your new roof isn’t just a formality—it’s a smart financial move that ensures you’re fully protected. Updating your policy can unlock premium discounts, secure full coverage, and make future claims hassle-free.

By keeping your insurer informed, you can ensure that your policy reflects the current condition of your home, helping you avoid complications later.

Potential Premium Discounts

If you’re wondering how a new roof can lead to insurance premium discounts, the answer is simple: it reduces risk for insurance companies. A newer, high-quality roof is less likely to suffer damage, which means a lower chance of filing claims. As a result, many insurers offer premium discounts ranging from 5% to 35%.

Additionally, if your policy isn’t updated, your insurer may assess your home based on an older roof, which could mean higher premiums or limited coverage. In some cases, failure to report a new roof could even lead to claim disputes if damage occurs.

By informing your insurer about your new roof, you:

•  Ensure your policy reflects the actual value and condition of your home.
•  Maximize potential savings by qualifying for available premium discounts.
•  Prevent claim disputes that could arise due to outdated records.

💡Schoenherr roofing tip: If you are planning to get a new roof, invest in high-quality material to avail of premium discounts!

Ensures Proper Coverage for Your Roof

Keeping your insurance policy updated is just as important as securing premium discounts. If your policy doesn’t reflect the current condition of your roof, you could run into issues when filing a claim.

Many insurance companies place age limits on roof coverage. For example, in Michigan, insurers typically pay less for roofs older than 10 years, covering only their current market value rather than the full replacement cost. Once a roof reaches 20 years, an inspection may be required for policy renewal, and some insurers may even refuse coverage altogether.

Failing to update your policy can lead to denied claims if the insurer believes the damage is due to normal wear and tear rather than a covered event. Older roofs may only qualify for actual cash value (ACV) coverage, meaning the payout reflects the roof’s reduced value over time, not full replacement costs.

By keeping your insurance up to date and maintaining your roof, you can avoid coverage gaps and unexpected expenses while ensuring your home stays protected.

Compliance With Policy Terms

Most homeowners’ insurance policies require holders to report major home improvements, including roof replacements. Keeping your insurer informed ensures your policy remains accurate and your home stays fully covered.

If you don’t report a new roof, you could face coverage issues. For example, if your roof is damaged and your insurance provider wasn’t notified of the upgrade, they may deny your claim, citing non-disclosure. In some cases, unreported changes can even lead to policy cancellations or reduced payouts.

To stay compliant, you must notify your insurance provider as soon as you complete a major home improvement. Keep detailed records of your upgrade, including contracts, receipts, and warranties, so you have proof when needed.

Successful Claims

Notifying your insurance company about your new roof simplifies and speeds up the claims process if damage occurs in the future. With updated records, including documentation and photos of your roof’s condition at the time of installation, your insurer can process claims more efficiently and with fewer disputes.

Without this documentation, your insurer may question whether the damage was due to recent events or pre-existing issues, leading to potential delays or coverage challenges. By providing invoices, warranties, and before-and-after images, you establish a clear record that helps secure a hassle-free claims experience.

How Roofing Material, Installation, Location, and Age Affect Insurance Premiums

Several key factors influence your homeowner’s insurance premiums, including the type of roofing material, installation quality, location, and roof age. Understanding these elements can help you make an informed decision to protect your home while securing the best possible insurance rates.

Roofing Material

The material of your roof is one of the most important factors insurers consider when determining your premium. Different materials offer different levels of durability, lifespan, and resistance to weather-related damage, which can impact your coverage costs.

A high-quality, long-lasting roof made from durable materials may qualify for insurance discounts, as it lowers the risk of claims due to weather damage or wear and tear. On the other hand, materials with shorter lifespans or higher susceptibility to damage may result in higher premiums.

To help you compare different roofing materials and their impact on insurance rates, we’ve compiled a detailed comparison table outlining their durability, cost-effectiveness, lifespan, and insurance benefits.

Quality Of Roof Installation

A roof is only as good as the way it’s installed. Even the best materials—whether asphalt, metal, or slate—won’t perform well if installed improperly. On the other hand, a professionally installed roof enhances durability, safety, and long-term savings.

Many insurers recognize the reduced risk of professionally installed roofs. Hiring a certified contractor may qualify you for discounts, as these professionals adhere to industry standards, comply with building codes, and often provide warranties that further protect your home. Some insurance policies even require proof of proper installation to approve claims.

Choosing a trusted, certified contractor not only extends the life of your roof but can also lead to long-term savings on your homeowner’s insurance.

Age of Your Roof

The age of your roof the age of your roof affects insurance rates. Insurance companies assess risk based on a roof’s lifespan, as older roofs are more susceptible to damage, increasing the likelihood of claims. Keeping your policy updated with an accurate roof age can impact both premium costs and coverage options.

New Roofs

A newly installed roof reduces the risk of damage from leaks, structural issues, and weather events. Since insurers see this as a lower risk, many offer premium discounts ranging from 5% to 35% for homeowners who upgrade their roofs. These savings reflect the decreased likelihood of claims, making it a smart financial move to install a new roof and update your policy.

Aging Roofs

As a roof age, its susceptibility to damage increases. Roofs that are 10 to 20 years old often face higher premiums or reduced coverage, as insurers see them as more vulnerable to leaks and structural problems. 

Some providers may require an inspection before renewal, while others may offer only actual cash value coverage, which accounts for the roof’s reduced worth rather than covering full replacement costs. 

Once a roof reaches 40 years or more, many insurers may refuse coverage altogether, leaving homeowners with fewer options and higher out-of-pocket expenses.

Geographic Location 

Your home’s location is a key factor in determining your insurance premiums. Insurers assess weather risks, local building codes, and proximity to emergency services to gauge the level of risk associated with your property.

Homes in areas prone to extreme weather, such as hurricanes, wildfires, or earthquakes, often have higher insurance premiums due to increased chances of damage. However, using durable roofing materials and ensuring proper installation can help reduce costs by making your home more resilient.

In states like Michigan, where winters are harsh and summers are humid,well-installed roofs with high-quality materials that can withstand heavy snowfall, moisture, and temperature shifts can help lower premiums. 

Proximity to emergency services also plays a role. Homes near fire stations and police departments often receive lower rates due to faster emergency response times.

Understanding how your location impacts your insurance rates allows you to make better decisions about roofing upgrades, home improvements, and policy updates to ensure the best protection at the most competitive price.

5 Essential Tips to Maximize Insurance Benefits with a New Roof

Homeowners can maximize insurance benefits with a new roof by selecting quality material, hiring reputable contractors, understanding insurance policies, implementing prevention measures, and running regular checkups.

Let’s explore how each tip helps your new roof qualify for insurance savings and long-term protection.

Select High-Quality Material

Selecting the right material for your new roof is important for its durability and longevity. This helps maximize your insurance benefits by securing premium discounts and full coverage.

A new, high-quality roof may qualify for the following insurance incentives:

• Impact-Resistant Roof Discount: Reduces premiums in storm-prone areas.
• Wind Mitigation Discount: For roofs that meet wind-resistant building codes.
• Age-Based Roof Discount: Newer roofs pose lower risks, leading to lower insurance costs.
• Fire-Resistant Discount: Available for metal, slate, or treated materials in fire-prone regions.
• Energy-Efficient Discount Some insurance companies offer incentives for reflective or cool roofing materials.

💡Schoenherr roofing tip: Before committing to a new roof, check with your insurer about available discounts and material requirements.

Hire Certified and Reputable Contractors

A better roof starts with the right contractor. Hiring a certified and reputable roofing professional ensures quality installation, which directly impacts your roof’s longevity and insurance benefits. A well-installed roof reduces the risk of leaks, structural damage, and premature wear—minimizing the likelihood of future claims that could lead to increased premiums.

Choosing an experienced contractor provides several advantages, including:

• Proper Installation. 
• Insurance Benefits.
• Fewer Claims.
• Code Compliance.
• Access to Warranties.

A trusted contractor, Schoenherr Roofing, prioritizes long-term value over quick, low-cost fixes. They ensure compliance with building codes, offer free transparent estimates, and provide expert guidance so homeowners can make informed decisions. Investing in a certified professional protects your home, maximizes insurance savings, and offers lasting peace of mind.

Call (248) 422-2910 or visit our website to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate today!

Understand Your Insurance Policy

Homeowners should thoroughly review their insurance policies to ensure they are taking the right steps to maximize benefits. Understanding your policy helps you know what’s covered, how claims work, and what factors influence your premiums.

• What’s covered: Insurance policies contain coverage information. Most policies protect you against storm damage like wind, hail, or fire—but usually exclude regular wear and tear or neglect.
• Deductible: Deductible is the amount you pay before your insurance kicks in.
• Roof-Age Restrictions: Older roofs might have limited coverage or higher deductibles, so understanding these details can save you from surprise expenses.
• Claim Process: how to file a claim, including required documentation and timeframes, for faster, smoother settlements.
• Discounts: Many insurers offer premium reductions for roofs with storm-resistant or upgraded materials

In Michigan, homeowners insurance typically covers storm, hail, and fire damage but excludes wear and tear. Roofs over 20 years old may only qualify for actual cash value coverage instead of full replacement. The average premium is $1,422 per year, but costs vary based on roof material, location, and maintenance. Neglected roofs can lead to claim denials, while impact-resistant materials may qualify for discounts. Reviewing your policy ensures you’re fully covered and maximizing benefits.

Implement Preventative Measures

Strengthening your roof with impact-resistant materials, reinforced structures, and fire-resistant features to prevent damage can also lead to significant insurance savings. 

Installing metal or Class 4 shingles reduces damage risks from hail and high winds, often qualifying for discounts between 5% and 35%. Reinforcing roof structures with hurricane straps and improved roof-to-wall connections helps prevent structural failures during storms.

By investing in these preventative measures, homeowners can extend their roof’s lifespan, minimize repair costs, and take advantage of insurance incentives.

Regular Inspection

Scheduling regular roof inspections helps catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs. Routine maintenance can prevent unexpected claims, reduce out-of-pocket expenses, and extend the lifespan of your roof. A well-maintained roof also signals to insurers that you’re proactive in preventing damage, which may positively impact your insurance premiums.

How to Inform Your Insurance about Roof Installment Step-by-Step 

Informing your insurance company about a new roof ensures accurate coverage and premium discounts. Here’s how to do it effectively.

Gather Essential Information

Gather all the necessary details about your new roof, including the installation date, materials used, and contractor information. Insurance companies review this information to determine your coverage and potential premium discounts.

Contact your Insurance Provider

Reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible. You can contact your insurance provider via phone call, Email, or the insurer’s online portal. Inform them of the recent roof replacement and provide the gathered details.

Provide Necessary Documentation

Be prepared to provide all the required documents to your insurance provider, such as:

• Invoices or receipts.
• Contracts.
• Photographs.
• Permits.

 Review and Update Your Policy

After submitting the document, request a review of your policy to confirm coverage details and explore premium discounts.

By following these steps, you can effectively communicate your roof replacement to your insurance company, ensuring proper coverage and low insurance costs.

How to Claim Roof Replacement on Insurance

Home insurance typically covers roof replacement if the damage is caused by a covered peril such as a storm, hail, or fire. Understanding the claim process can help you file correctly, maximize your benefits, and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

To simplify the process, we’ve outlined a step-by-step guide to help you navigate a roof replacement claim.

Understand Your Policy Coverage

Before filing a claim, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to determine does insurance covers roof replacement. Most policies cover damage caused by unforeseen events like storms, hail, or fire, but typically exclude issues related to normal wear and tear or neglect. 

Document the Damage

As soon as you notice roof damage, document it thoroughly. Take clear, date-stamped photographs from multiple angles, and make note of the time and cause of the damage. This evidence is essential when filing your claim, as it helps verify the extent and origin of the issue.

Notify Your Insurance Company Immediately

Report the damage to your insurance provider immediately to avoid claim disputes or delays. Insurers may have specific time-frames for filing claims, so acting quickly ensures you remain eligible for coverage. Provide all necessary documentation and be prepared to answer questions about the incident.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection 

A professional roof inspection report can significantly improve your claim eligibility and increase your chances of securing full coverage. Hiring a certified roofing contractor ensures a detailed, accurate assessment, giving insurers the documentation they need to verify the damage. 

A well-documented report strengthens your case, helping to prevent claim denials and maximize your payout by clearly proving the extent of the damage and the necessity for repairs or replacement.

Work with Your Insurance Agent

Your insurance agent plays a crucial role in making the claims process smoother and ensuring you get the coverage you deserve. They can help clarify your policy, guide you through the necessary paperwork, and advocate for you during the claims process. A proactive agent can also prevent delays and improve the chances of a quick and fair approval.

These steps can help homeowners claim insurance for a new roof.

Case Study: Navigating a First-Time Insurance Claim for Roof Replacement with Schoenherr Roofing

Filing an insurance claim for a roof replacement can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time homeowners going through the process. When Gina discovered hail damage and chimney seal cracks on her home, she knew she needed professional guidance to ensure a smooth claim and a proper roof replacement.

Background

Gina’s roof had suffered significant hail damage, and cracks had formed in her chimney seal, making a full roof replacement necessary. With no prior experience in filing an insurance claim, she needed help understanding the process, coordinating with her provider, and ensuring everything was handled correctly.

Solution

To simplify the process, Gina worked with Schoenherr Roofing which guided her through each step. From coordinating with her insurance company to providing a thorough assessment of the damage, she received clear communication and expert guidance. 

A detailed damage report and accurate documentation ensured the insurance process moved forward without unnecessary delays.

Results

• Her insurance claim was approved without delays
• She got a high-quality roof replacement done right
• The process was easy, transparent, and handled with care

Customer Testimonial

“Reliable, professional, and an overall wonderful experience! Schoenherr Roofing made my first insurance claim smooth and stress-free. From the start, they were patient, and professional, and kept me informed while coordinating seamlessly with my insurance provider. 

A huge shoutout to Nick Putz and Chad Hulcy for their excellent communication and support—they made sure all my questions were answered and my needs were met. Thanks to Schoenherr Roofing, I now have a beautiful new roof. Highly recommend!” – Gina

Wrapping Up

Informing your insurer about roof replacement is a simple step with a lot of insurance benefits. From securing premium discounts to ensuring full coverage, homeowners who update their policies avoid unnecessary risks and unexpected expenses. 

Choosing high-quality materials, working with certified contractors, and implementing preventative measures all contribute to a durable roof that offers long-term protection and financial savings.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does insurance cover roof replacement?

Yes, home insurance typically covers roof replacement when the damage results from a covered peril. A covered peril is a type of damage specifically listed in your insurance policy, such as wind, hailstorms, and fire. However, insurance does not cover roof damage from normal wear and tear, neglect, or improper installation. To confirm your coverage, review your policy or contact your insurance provider.

Does a metal roof lower insurance?

Yes, a metal roof can lower insurance costs due to its durability and resistance to fire, hail, and high winds. With a lifespan of 40 to 70 years, metal roofing reduces the risk of damage, which many insurance companies reward with premium discounts ranging from 5% to 25%. However, savings vary based on your location, insurer, and policy terms. To confirm eligibility and maximize potential discounts, it’s best to check directly with your insurance provider.

What Is a Roof Inspection Report for Insurance?

A roof inspection report is a professional evaluation that details the condition, age, and any existing damage to your roof. Insurance companies often require this report to assess coverage eligibility, process claims, or determine premium rates. Hiring a reputable roofing contractor for an inspection can strengthen your insurance coverage, ensure accurate policy updates, and support a roof replacement claim if damage is present.

Will a new roof lower my insurance premium?

Insurance companies consider roof age when determining risk. Newer roofs often qualify for lower premiums and full replacement coverage, while older roofs (typically over 20 years) may face higher premiums or limited coverage, such as actual cash value payouts instead of full replacement. Keeping your insurer updated on roof replacements can help maintain the best coverage.

How Does Hiring a Certified Contractor Affect Roof Insurance?

Hiring a certified roofing contractor ensures proper installation, which can impact your insurance coverage and premiums. Insurers may offer discounts for roofs installed by licensed professionals, as they meet building codes and durability standards.