An aging roof can cause homeowners insurance problems, including higher rates or canceled premiums.

Are you facing higher homeowners insurance rates or the risk of being dropped altogether? If you’ve owned your home for a while, or if your roof is getting older, you may have seen your insurance rates increase or been told your coverage could be canceled. This issue is affecting both homeowners and buyers, and when buyers are affected, it also impacts sellers.

That’s why as a seller, one of the best things you can do is address the roof situation before listing your home. Here are some insights on handling insurance and roof issues that I and my partner, Dan Karp from The Karp Group, discussed to help you get started.

Get your roof inspected. It’s a good idea to have a professional inspection before listing your home. You may think your roof is in good condition, but just like a car or appliances, roofs experience wear and tear over time. Even if it looks fine, there could be underlying issues affecting its lifespan. A roof report outlining its life expectancy can give buyers peace of mind and help with insurance, knowing they won’t need a new roof right away.

“Managing your roof is a crucial part of dealing with homeowners insurance. ”

Repair or replace your roof. You might wonder if it's worth spending money on roof repairs or replacement before selling, but it really depends on the situation. If the roof is old and needs major repairs, it may be worth fixing before listing. However, if you're thinking about a full replacement, consider it it’s worth the cost. 

It might also be better to lower your sale price instead of replacing the roof. The bottom line is to understand the costs and how they’ll impact your sale price.

What buyers should know about your roof. Understanding the roof’s condition before buying is so important. If you’re buying a home and the roof is older, it’s something to be aware of. An old roof that’s about 30 years old could be problematic when it comes to getting insurance. Without a roof longevity report, getting insurance may be difficult. 

Managing your roof is a crucial part of dealing with homeowners insurance. Whether you’re trying to make your home more attractive to buyers, or just looking to avoid unexpected insurance issues, taking care of your roof can make a difference.

If you need help or have questions about roof inspections and insurance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at 561-843-4464 or send an email to laurie@activeluxury.com. We’re here to help before, during, and after your sale.