The Roof Age Limit

Imagine that your roof leaks after a heavy rainstorm.

The roof age limit. One frequently asked question about the fha loan process is related to fha appraisals and the minimum requirements for the roof of the home. This may sound unfair at first but imagine if you were responsible for 250 000 roofs across an area that was well known for severe storms. Roofs last a long time with the typical asphalt shingle roof lasting between 15 to 25 years depending on the type of installation. If your roofer s inspection reveals your roof has suffered no detrimental damages then your asphalt shingle roof is worth using for the next 3 5 more years.

If you have an asphalt shingle roof that is over 10 years old for example the likelihood of claim denial goes up. How old is that roof. Estimating roof age is difficult. Bonnie pesch a veteran personal lines underwriter with west bend will discuss how your roof ages and the role insurance plays if your roof is damaged.

If you live in an area where roof damage from windstorms and hail is prevalent or possible the decision you make about this coverage could mean the difference between paying out just your homeowners policy deductible or your deductible plus depreciation costs. Another factor leading to more roof replacement demands is insurance fraud. Inspections reveal no detrimental damages. A roof is usually the best it s going to be when it s installed.

It s the appraiser s job to look over the home and make sure it meets fha standards. A damaged 10 year old roof will likely get coverage for a full replacement. The florida building code dictates who may work on roofs and the florida roofing laws for when roofs may be reroofed repaired or replaced within or outside of high velocity hurricane zones. Your insurance company can argue that roof damages were exacerbated by the roof s age.

Having a good strong roof makes sense on many levels. Obviously the best way to know your roof s age is by keeping records from the last time the roof was replaced. Copper offers an old world appeal to your roof as it ages to a pale green patina and can last up to 100 years. Paired with effective maintenance you can be sure it can go beyond its age limit but with a few caveats.

If your roof is damaged contact a licensed florida roofing contractor for help. New shingles can tolerate much more abuse from elements like hail. Home insurance policies usually cover roof damage caused by fire vandalism and acts of god such as hurricanes and tornadoes. Stone tiles stone tiles are typically made of slate clay or terra cotta and concrete.

If you had data showing that normal wear and tear tends to limit roof age you would probably make the same demands.