03 Apr Understanding Florida’s “10-year Roof Law”: What Does It Mean For You?

​In Florida, the term “10-year roof law” is often used to describe regulations and insurance practices concerning the age and condition of residential roofs. While there isn’t a specific statute labeled as such, recent legislative changes and insurance policies have introduced guidelines that homeowners should be aware of.​

Understanding Florida’s Roof Age Regulations

In May 2022, Florida enacted legislation impacting homeowners’ insurance policies related to roof age:

• Roofs Under 15 Years Old: Insurance companies cannot refuse to issue or renew a homeowner’s insurance policy solely based on the roof’s age if it is less than 15 years old.
• Roofs 15 Years or Older: For roofs that are 15 years old or older, insurers must allow homeowners to have a roof inspection performed by an authorized inspector at the homeowner’s expense before requiring a roof replacement as a condition of policy issuance or renewal. If the inspection indicates that the roof has five or more years of useful life remaining, the insurer cannot refuse to issue or renew the policy solely because of the roof’s age.

Insurance Company Practices and Requirements

Despite these regulations, some insurance companies have implemented stricter policies:

• Roof Replacement Requirements: Certain insurers may require homeowners to replace roofs that are 10 years old or older before providing coverage, especially for asphalt shingle roofs.
• Material-Specific Lifespans: Insurance providers may have different age thresholds based on roofing materials:
  • Asphalt Shingles: 10–15 years
  • Tile: 15–25 years
  • Metal: 15–30 years

Recommendations for Florida Homeowners

Given the variability in insurance company policies, Florida homeowners should consider the following steps:

1. Regular Roof Inspections: Schedule periodic inspections to assess the condition and estimated lifespan of your roof. This proactive approach can provide documentation of your roof’s integrity, which may be beneficial during insurance evaluations.​
2. Consult with Your Insurance Provider: Engage in open communication with your insurance company to understand their specific requirements regarding roof age and condition. Policies can vary significantly between providers.​
3. Stay Informed About Legislative Changes: Florida’s insurance and roofing regulations can evolve. Keeping abreast of new laws and amendments will help you make informed decisions about roof maintenance and insurance coverage.​

By understanding these regulations and maintaining regular communication with your insurance provider, you can better navigate the complexities of roof age requirements and ensure continuous, adequate coverage for your home. If you still have questions or would like to schedule a free roof inspection, please don’t wait until the middle of hurricane season–reach out to us today to schedule an appointment for your home.