When shopping for homeowners insurance in Florida, the age of your roof can be an important part of the application. But how does an insurance company know when the roof was actually replaced?
One of the most common ways to verify roof age is through the roof permit.
Why Does a Roof Permit Matter?
A roof permit can provide documentation showing when roofing work was completed on the property.
If you tell your insurance agent that the roof was replaced, the insurance company may require documentation to verify the roof’s age before using that information for underwriting.
Depending on the carrier, a roof permit may be one of the documents used to verify the replacement.
What If You Don’t Have a Copy of the Permit?
You may still be able to find the permit even if you don’t have the original paperwork.
Depending on where the property is located, permit records may be available through the local:
- Building department
- City
- County
- Online permit search
Your insurance agent may also be able to help identify what documentation the carrier requires.
What If There Is No Roof Permit?
If you believe the roof was replaced but cannot find a permit, don’t assume the insurance company will accept the year you were given by a previous owner.
The carrier may request other documentation or use the roof information available through inspections and property records. Requirements vary by insurance company.
Roof Permits and Wind Mitigation
A roof permit can also be important when reviewing a wind mitigation inspection.
The permit date and applicable building code can help an inspector document certain roof information. However, a roof permit by itself does not automatically mean the home qualifies for every wind mitigation credit.
The actual features of the home and the information documented by the inspector determine which wind mitigation features can be reported.
Replacing Your Roof?
If you’re having a new roof installed, keep copies of your:
- Permit information
- Final inspection or permit closeout
- Roofing contract
- Paid invoice
- Warranty and other roof documentation
Keeping these records can make it easier to document the roof replacement when shopping for homeowners insurance in the future.
Insurance Requirements Vary by Carrier
Roof age and documentation requirements can vary by insurance company. One carrier may accept documentation that another carrier does not.
Working with an independent insurance agent who has access to multiple carriers can help you understand what documentation may be needed and explore available options for your property.
Need Help With Florida Home Insurance?
At HomeInsuranceFlorida.com, we work with multiple insurance carriers and can help homeowners explore available home insurance options based on their property and individual circumstances.
Coverage, eligibility, underwriting requirements, discounts, and availability vary by insurance company and policy. Contact a licensed insurance agent to discuss your specific property.