Understanding How Insurance Companies Evaluate Roof Risk

Insurance companies look at several factors when considering whether to issue a homeowners insurance policy to a homeowner, including the condition and characteristics of the home’s roof. The Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) is sharing this information to help homeowners understand how insurers assess roof-related risk, and homeowners rights and options.

How Insurers Assess Roof Risk

Insurance companies have the right to inspect the properties they insure to evaluate maintenance and potential risk for a claim arising under a policy. These inspections may include:

• In-person inspections conducted by licensed inspectors
• Aerial imagery, such as satellite images or drone photography

Insurers often use a combination of these tools. Aerial imagery is typically used as a screening tool and may be followed by a physical inspection if questions or concerns are identified.

Roof Characteristics Insurers May Consider in Determining Whether to Issue or Renew a Homeowners Policy

Each insurer has its own underwriting guidelines, but commonly reviewed roof characteristics include age and condition.

Roof Age

• Asphalt, wood, rubber, and similar non-permanent materials often have eligibility limits that vary by insurer, commonly in the 15 to 20-year range
• Architectural shingles may be eligible for longer periods, often 25 years or more
• Tile and slate roofs are generally considered lifetime materials

Roof Condition

• Missing, lifted, curled, cracked, or deteriorated shingles
• Multiple layers of roofing material
• Unrepaired damage or excessive debris, including moss buildup
• Overhanging tree limbs that may increase the risk of damage

In March 2024, the CID issued a notice advising insurers that aerial images showing cosmetic roofing conditions such as natural discoloration or streaking should not be used as a reason for not renewing homeowners’ policies. To support an action not to renew a homeowners policy, insurers must have evidence of material degradation or damage to a roof that increases the risk of a claim.

Can an Insurer Cancel or Not Renew my Homeowners Policy Based on Roof Condition?

Insurance companies use underwriting guidelines to decide whether to issue or renew a homeowners policy. If an insurer decides to not renew your homeowners policy, Connecticut law requires at least 60 days’ advance written notice of nonrenewal, including a clear explanation of the reason for not renewing your homeowners policy.

The CID has encouraged insurers to provide as much advance notice as possible when roof-related issues are identified, recognizing the time needed to schedule inspections and complete repairs.

If a policy has been in effect for at least 60 days, or if the policy is an effective renewal policy, cancellation during the policy term is limited by law and is generally permitted only for reasons such as:

• Nonpayment of premium
• Material misrepresentation
• A physical change in your property that materially increases a hazard insured against

What You Can Do If Your Policy Is at Risk

If your insurer raises concerns about your roof, you may want to:

1. Ask your insurer for specific details about the issue identified
2. Provide documentation, such as receipts or contracts, if repairs or replacement have been completed or scheduled
3. Ask whether temporary extensions or alternatives may be available while repairs are underway

Many insurers will review updated information if roof images or inspection data are outdated or incomplete.

Finding Coverage

Consumers are encouraged to shop around. Insurers have different underwriting standards, and a decision by one company does not mean another insurer will not offer coverage.

If you are unable to find coverage in the private market, the Connecticut Property Insurance Placement Facility, also known as the CT FAIR Plan, serves as the insurer of last resort.

Need Help?

Consumers with questions or concerns about homeowners insurance underwriting or nonrenewal notices may contact the Connecticut Insurance Department for assistance.

Email: insurance@ct.gov
Phone: 860-297-3900
Website: Insurance Department website.

The information in this notice is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Any policy descriptions are necessarily simplified and should not be construed as specific coverage, legal or other professional advice. The CID makes no representations or warranties that the materials in this notice are suitable for your needs, are complete, timely, reliable, accurate or free from errors or inaccuracies.