Will Insurance Cover a 25-Year-Old Roof?

If your roof is approaching or past the 25-year mark, it’s natural to wonder what happens if damage occurs. Will your homeowners’ insurance cover a replacement? Or will you be stuck with the full bill?

For homeowners in Denver, Colorado, where snow, hail, and sun can take a toll on roofing, this question is fundamental. In this guide, we’ll walk through how insurance typically handles older roofs, what factors impact coverage, and when to call a Denver roofing company for help.

How Insurance Typically Covers Roof Damage

Homeowners insurance usually covers roof damage when it’s caused by a sudden, accidental event such as:

• Hailstorms
• Windstorms
• Falling trees
• Fire
• Vandalism

However, insurers generally do not cover damage caused by:

• Normal wear and tear
• Poor maintenance
• Gradual deterioration
• Mold, fungus, or rot

If a roof is leaking because of age and weathering, that’s often deemed a maintenance issue, and insurance will likely deny the claim.

Does Insurance Cover Old Roofs?

The short answer is sometimes, but it depends.

Most insurance companies are reluctant to fully cover roofs older than 20–25 years, even if a storm caused the damage. Why? Because:

• Older roofs are more likely to fail.
• They may already be compromised from decades of exposure.
• The cost of replacing an aged roof is high, and insurers want to limit their risk.

Some insurers even refuse to renew a policy if your roof is beyond a certain age (typically 20–25 years), especially if it’s made of asphalt shingles.

Factors That Affect Coverage

Several elements influence whether your insurer will pay for a roof claim, especially if your roof is 25 years old or older:

a. Roofing Material

• Asphalt shingles: Lifespan is typically 20–30 years.
• Metal roofs: Often last 40–70 years.
• Tile or slate: Can last 50–100 years.

If your roof is made from a longer-lasting material, your insurer may be more lenient.

b. Roof Condition

If your roof was well-maintained and documented, you may get more favorable consideration even if it’s older.

c. Claim Cause

If your roof was damaged by a covered peril (like hail), you have a stronger case. But if it’s general deterioration, don’t expect approval.

d. Local Weather Risks

Denver sees frequent hailstorms, heavy snow, and high UV exposure due to elevation, all of which can accelerate roof aging. Insurance companies operating in the region often have stricter rules.

Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

Understanding these terms is key to knowing how much you’ll get back.

ACV 

Depreciated value of your roof. You’ll only get what the roof is worth now, after 25 years of aging.

RCV

What it costs to fully replace the roof at today’s prices, minus your deductible.

Many insurers switch to ACV policies once your roof passes a certain age, commonly 15 or 20 years.

Let’s say your 25-year-old roof originally cost $10,000 to install. If the depreciation over 25 years leaves it with only $1,000 in value, that’s all you might get under ACV.

What About a 25-Year-Old Roof in Denver?

In Denver, roofing companies like 303 Roofer regularly handle claims for aging roofs. Here’s what local homeowners should know:

• Inspections are essential; most insurers won’t consider an old roof claim without an inspection showing storm-related damage.
• Hail is your best shot, as hailstorms are frequent in Denver, and if hail has visibly damaged your shingles, even on an older roof, you may still get partial coverage.
• Preventive maintenance helps; if your insurer sees proof that you’ve kept up with repairs and inspections, they may be more willing to work with you.

According to NOAA’s Storm Events Database, Colorado is one of the top states for hail claims each year. Denver-area homeowners should keep all documentation of storm events, inspections, and repairs to support any future insurance claims.

How to Improve Your Chances of Coverage

If your roof is 25 years old and you’re hoping to get insurance to cover repairs or replacement, here are some tips:

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Have Denver roofers like 303 Roofer conduct an inspection and document any storm-related damage.

Take Photos After Storms

Even minor hailstorms or wind events can cause damage. Take photos and note the dates; it can help prove your claim later.

Review Your Policy

Check if you have ACV or RCV coverage, and whether there are age-based restrictions in your homeowners insurance.

Don’t Delay Reporting

Most policies have a limited window (often 1 year) to file a claim after storm damage occurs.

Keep Records

Save receipts and reports from previous repairs and inspections. This can prove that the damage wasn’t due to neglect.

When to Replace vs. Repair

At 25 years old, even if your roof isn’t actively leaking, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. So how do you decide?

Replace your roof if:

• Shingles are curling, cracking, or missing
• You see water damage or mold inside.
• There are soft spots or sagging in the roof deck.
• You’ve already had multiple repairs.

Repair may be enough if:

• Damage is isolated to a small section
• The rest of the roof is in solid condition
• You’re looking to buy time before complete replacement

A professional roofing contractor can provide a recommendation based on a complete assessment of your roof’s structure and material condition.

When to Contact Denver Roofing Companies

If your roof is 25 years old or even approaching that age, it’s wise to get ahead of potential issues before insurance becomes more restrictive.

Call a trusted Denver roofing company like 303 Roofer if:

• You’ve experienced a recent hail or wind storm
• You’re seeing signs of aging, like cracked or missing shingles
• You want to file a claim and need an inspection report.
• You’re preparing to sell your home and want to avoid surprises
• Your insurer is requesting an inspection to renew coverage.

Choosing a local roofer familiar with Denver’s insurance requirements and climate challenges can make a big difference in how smoothly your claim goes.

Know Where You Stand with 303 Roofer

At 25 years old, your roof has served you well, but it may be nearing the point where insurance coverage becomes limited or denied. Whether you’re unsure about your policy, worried about storm damage, or just want an expert opinion, 303 Roofer is here to help.

We’ve worked with countless Denver homeowners and know exactly what insurance adjusters look for. Our inspections are thorough, our recommendations are honest, and our service is tailored to the unique weather challenges of the Denver, Colorado region.

• Schedule a roof inspection today.
• Understand your insurance options.
• Plan your next step confidently.

Visit 303Roofer.com to schedule your inspection or explore our full range of services.