Let’s talk about your roof. Is it showing its age? No, not the one you’re ignoring while binge-watching your favorite show—we mean the actual roof over your head. If you’re a homeowner in Northeast Ohio, your roof’s age could soon affect your home insurance coverage—and not in a good way. Insurance carriers are changing the rules. If your roof is between 10 and 15 years old, you might not be fully covered anymore.
🧾 What’s Changing in Roof Insurance Policies?
In the past, your homeowner’s policy might have covered your roof at replacement cost. That means if a hailstorm shredded your shingles, your insurer would pay to replace the roof entirely—minus your deductible.
But now, many insurance companies are shifting gears. If your roof is over 10 or 15 years old, they may only cover Actual Cash Value (ACV)—that’s the replacement cost minus depreciation.
The result? Instead of a check that covers a brand-new roof, you could end up with just enough to pay for half a roof.
📉 Why Insurance Companies Are Tightening Roof Coverage
Home Insurance Trends in Northeast Ohio
According to the Ohio Insurance Agents Association, stricter underwriting guidelines are now the norm. Asphalt shingle roofs—found on nearly 75% of U.S. homes—are especially impacted. As these roofs age, insurance carriers become more cautious. The risk of severe weather damage increases, and that’s reflected in policy updates. OHIO INSURANCE AGENTS
Guidance from the Ohio Department of Insurance
The Ohio Department of Insurance stresses that homeowners need to understand their coverage. If your policy covers replacement cost (RCV), your insurer will pay to replace the roof with materials of similar kind and quality. But older roofs may only qualify for ACV—leaving you to cover the difference out of pocket. OH DEPT of INSURANCE
🔍 Local Roofing Experts Share Insurance Tips
Advice from Royalty Roofing
Roofing contractors across Northeast Ohio, including Royalty Roofing, advise homeowners to stay proactive. Regular inspections, timely maintenance, and solid documentation all help when filing a claim. A well-documented history of roof care can even improve your chances of getting full coverage approved. ROYALTY ROOFING
✅ What Should Northeast Ohio Homeowners Do Now?
If your roof is over 10 years old, it’s time to take action. Here’s how to stay protected:
- Review Your Policy
Check whether your roof is covered under RCV or ACV. If it’s the latter, consider asking your insurance agent for other options or quotes from different carriers. - Keep Detailed Records
Schedule regular roof inspections. Document all maintenance, repairs, and cleanings. This info can be crucial when filing a claim. - Talk to Local Experts
Connect with both roofing contractors and insurance agents. They can help assess your roof’s condition and guide you on policy changes. ASK FOR A QUOTE WITH A DIFFERENT CARRIER - Stay Updated
Policy rules are changing. Follow updates from the Ohio Department of Insurance and local agent associations to stay ahead.
💬 Final Thoughts: Your Roof Deserves the Right Protection
Your roof does more than block rain and snow—it protects your family, your belongings, and your peace of mind. As weather patterns shift and insurance policies evolve, making sure your coverage keeps up is essential.
Northeast Ohio homeowners, if you’re unsure about your policy or want a second opinion, feel free to reach out. A few minutes of review today can save you thousands down the line.
Let’s talk about your roof. Is it aging? No, not the one you’re ignoring while binge-watching your favorite show—the actual roof over your head.
Insurance carriers are changing the rules, and if your roof is between 10 and 15 years old, it could be headed for a downgrade. Here’s what’s going on:
In the past, your homeowner’s insurance may have covered your roof at replacement cost—meaning if a hailstorm shredded your shingles, you’d get the full cost to replace it with a brand-new one (minus your deductible, of course).
But now? Many carriers are drawing the line at 10 to 15 years. If your roof is older than that, they may only pay out the Actual Cash Value (ACV)—basically, replacement cost minus depreciation. Translation: You get less money for an older roof.
So instead of getting enough for a brand-new roof, you might only get enough for… half a roof.
Why We’re Different
You may think you want the cheapest insurance you can find, but realize you may not be getting everything you bargained for…
While most insurance products are similar in price and function, insurance providers are very different when it comes to structuring a policy that actually covers you.
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all insurance policy when it comes to your business.
We’re your neighbors. We protect businesses and people we know and care about, and that means we always look for ways to protect you better, including carefully choosing the insurance companies we represent to be both affordable and responsive.
Contact us and let the professionals at our company help you forge the strongest shield possible to help you protect the things you are working hard to build.