Metal roofs are fire resistant, energy efficient, and can last longer than standard shingled roofs. If you’re thinking about switching to one, here are four things to know about how it could affect your home insurance.
1. A metal roof could lower your home insurance premium.
A metal roof could lower your premium, but not all insurers offer discounts and savings vary. Talk to your insurance agent and compare rates. Also keep in mind that metal roofs might cost more to install.
2. Metal roofs are tough, but not invincible.
Even though metal roofs are strong, they can still dent or scratch from hail, debris from high winds, and falling tree branches. While these might not affect the roof’s performance, they can hurt its curb appeal. Durability varies by metal type, panel thickness, and coating. Proper installation is also very important, so do your research when hiring a professional and choose materials wisely for your climate.
3. Your policy might not cover cosmetic damage.
If your insurance offers a discount for a metal roof, it might come with conditions like an exclusion for cosmetic damage. This means if something damages the way the roof looks, but it still functions, your insurance won’t pay to fix it. Review your policy and talk to your agent.
4. Watch for policy changes at renewal.
Even if your insurance policy covers cosmetic damage for your metal roof now, that could change at renewal time when companies can update their terms and add new exclusions.
Many policies reduce coverage as your roof ages, though this reduction is usually slower for metal roofs than it is for shingled roofs. Review your policy every year and ask your agent about updates.
If you have other questions about your insurance policy, call us at 800-252-3439.
