As a homeowner, you count on your insurance to safeguard one of your most valuable investments – your home. However, with constant changes in the insurance industry it can be difficult to keep track of what remains covered by your policy and what’s no longer included.
This year, one of the most significant updates concerns roof age. In today’s article, we bring you all the details about roof-related changes, so you can consult with your specialists in roof repair in Carlsbad, CA on time, and make sure you take the right action. Read on!
What does homeowners insurance cover in California?
It typically covers damage caused by sudden events like fire, wind, or hail. However, it may not cover wear and tear or damage due to lack of maintenance. For example, it may include coverage for:
- Wind and storm damage: Fierce winds and storms are common in California, especially along coastal areas, and policies usually include protection against damage caused by gusts, hail, or even flying debris.
- Fire damage: With wildfire risks on the rise, many policies cover fire-related damage, but some insurers are setting stricter guidelines or requesting additional documentation to confirm the roof is fire-resistant.
- Falling objects: If a tree or heavy branch falls on your roof, standard coverage should typically apply. However, it can depend on the age and condition of your roof.
Understanding these inclusions better will help you keep track of any potential changes that affect coverage limits, exclusions, or any additional requirements.
Roof age
Insurers are increasingly concerned with roof age and older roofs, especially those made with asphalt shingles. This is because they tend to deteriorate more rapidly and increase the possibility of maintenance issues. On the other hand, for durable materials such as tile or metal, they may offer more comprehensive coverage and even incentivize upgrades with reduced premiums. Here are some of the reasons why age is in the spotlight this year:
- Structural concerns: Roofs installed before 1985 could have outdated construction methods and materials that don’t meet today’s safety standards and are more susceptible to leaks, wind damage, and other issues that could lead to claims.
- Weather resilience: Roofs in California are exposed to a variety of weather-related risks, from intense sunlight to heavy rains and older roofs may not have the durability to withstand these conditions, which makes them more likely to require replacements or repairs.
- Fire hazard: In areas that are prone to wildfires, an aging roof can greatly increase the risk of fire to a home. Embers from a nearby fire can easily ignite old roofing materials and cause severe damage or even destruction.
Wildfire risks
With increased intensity and frequency of wildfires, many insurance providers have adjusted their policies to account for these risks. If your home is in a high-risk wildfire zone, you may face additional requirements or coverage limits. For example, your roof may need to meet specific fire-resistance standards like Class A fire-rated materials, including metal, slate, or certain treated shingles.
Earthquake and flood
While policies cover many types of unexpected roof damage, earthquakes and floods usually require separate policies or additional riders. For example, earthquake damage isn’t typically included in standard policies, but you can add it on for an extra premium. Same goes for flood insurance. However, both of these options can be inevitable if your home is in a high-risk area. 
Who provides reliable roof repair in Carlsbad, CA?
If you’d like to learn more about the role of roof insulation, you’re looking to prepare your roof for the winter months, or you simply need a reliable team to take proper care of your roofing, reach out to our dedicated experts at 619 Roofing. Whether you need us near Legoland California or in another nearby area, you can count on us for a premium-quality service. Give us a call today!