Insurers care a lot about roof age and condition. A roof certification documents both so you can keep or obtain coverage.
Key takeaways
- A roof certification documents the roof's covering, condition and estimated remaining life.
- Insurers often request one for older roofs or before writing a new policy.
- Florida law changed in 2022 to limit when insurers can refuse coverage based only on roof age.
- Keep records of your roof permit and installation date. They make every insurance inspection easier.
In Florida, the roof is often the first thing an insurance company asks about. A roof certification gives the insurer an independent look at the roof's condition and how many years of life it likely has left.
What a roof certification includes
- Type of roof covering, such as shingle, tile or metal
- Approximate age and permit information when available
- Condition of the covering, flashing and penetrations
- Visible signs of leaks, previous repairs or storm damage, including from the attic
- An estimate of the remaining useful life
Why insurers ask for one
Roof damage is one of the most common homeowners claims in Florida. An insurer may request a certification when a roof reaches a certain age, when writing a new policy, or when a 4-Point report raises questions about the roof.
Roof age and Florida law
In 2022, Florida passed a law that limits when insurers can refuse to write or renew a policy based only on roof age. For roofs less than 15 years old, age alone is not supposed to be the reason for a refusal. For older roofs, an inspection showing several years of remaining useful life can help keep coverage in place. Your agent can explain how your carrier applies the rules.
Signs a roof is near the end of its life
- Curling, cracked or missing shingles and heavy granule loss
- Soft spots or visible sagging
- Stains on ceilings or in the attic
- Rusted or lifted flashing around vents and chimneys
- Cracked or slipped tiles on a tile roof
Pairing with other inspections
A roof certification is often scheduled with a 4-Point and a wind mitigation inspection. Together they give your insurer a complete picture in a single visit.
Frequently asked questions
Is a roof certification a warranty?
No. It documents the roof's visible condition and estimated remaining life on the inspection date. It is not a guarantee against future leaks.
Does the inspector walk on the roof?
When it is safe to do so. Some roofs, such as steep or fragile tile roofs, are evaluated from a ladder, the ground or with other methods.
Where can I find my roof age?
Your county permit records usually show the roofing permit date. Sellers may also have invoices from the roofing contractor.
