Most homeownersonly think about insurance in relation to their roofing when they need to file a home insurance claim. But, you might be surprised to learn that the roof also affects your home insurance rates, storm or no storm. In this blog, roofing contractors My Roofing shares a look at the relationship between roofs and home insurance.
How Roofs Affect Home Insurance Rates
Roofs serve as the home’s primary protection against the elements, and are therefore subject to constant wear and tear the moment installation is completed. Insurance providers tend to favor strong roofs; those that have above-average durability. The reason bears a lengthy explanation, but simply put: it doesn’t make sense to provide insurance coverage for something that easily breaks.
Adherence to manufacturer-prescribed roof inspections and scheduled maintenance, along with timely repairs, can have positive effects on the roof’s insurance rates. Keeping up with scheduled roofing inspections, conducting regular inspections, and calling your roofing contractor for timely repairs are beneficial to both your roofing structure’s integrity and your insurance rates. Additionally, your roof is less likely to suffer major damage during a storm, and helps prevent your roofing warranties from getting voided.
Potential Insurance Discounts
Some insurance providers offer discounts when a client-homeowner has had their roof replaced. Since they don’t get notified of such changes, insurance providers need to be informed when a new roof is installed. They will need copies of documents that indicate the installation completion date, contractor information, and warranty coverage.
You may also get insurance provider if your roofing system features fire-resistant roofing materials. Roofing products that have passed ASTM E108 fall into this category. Some roofing manufacturers offer fire-resistant underlayment; examples include GAF VersaShield® and Atlas FR Slipsheet. Others offer fire-resistant asphalt shingles, which may be combined with regular or fire-resistant underlayment. Such products include CertainTeed® Firescreen® and Owens Corning® Duration® shingles. If you are planning on having a new roof installed, consult with your insurance provider on how fire-resistant roofing will benefit your insurance rates.
My Roofing is your leading provider of quality gutters and roofing systems. Give us a call at (817) 912-5500 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.