Florida roof age rules for home insurance: the 15-year law explained
By the Florida Coverage Compare editorial team · Last updated
The short answer
Under Florida Statute 627.7011, an insurer can't refuse to write or renew a homeowners policy solely because the roof is less than 15 years old. If your roof is 15 years or older, you can have it inspected: when an authorized inspector finds at least five years of useful life remaining, the insurer can't refuse coverage based on roof age alone.
What the law protects
The law limits refusals based on roof age only. Insurers can still decline for other lawful reasons, such as visible damage, past claims or the home's overall condition.
- Roofs under 15 years old: age alone is not a reason to refuse or non-renew your policy.
- Roofs 15 years or older: an inspection showing at least five years of remaining useful life prevents a refusal based solely on age.
How to use the inspection right
- Hire an inspector the insurer accepts. Licensed roofing contractors and home inspectors are common choices; ask the insurer or your agent first.
- Keep the written report. It should state the roof's remaining useful life.
- Send it to your agent or insurer before your renewal or new-policy deadline.
When a new roof makes sense
A newer roof can open up more insurers and better wind-mitigation credits. If you replace your roof, get a new wind mitigation inspection afterwards so the improvements show on your policy. The state's My Safe Florida Home program has offered inspections and hardening grants in some years; funding changes, so check mysafeflhome.com for its current status.
The law may change
Bills filed in Florida's 2026 legislative session proposed changes to this section, including who pays for the inspection. Confirm the current version of section 627.7011 or ask a licensed agent before relying on these details.
Common questions
- Can a Florida insurer drop me because my roof is old?
- Not solely because it's under 15 years old. For roofs 15 or older, an inspection showing at least five years of remaining useful life prevents a refusal based on age alone. Insurers can still decline for other reasons, such as damage.
- Who can inspect my roof for insurance in Florida?
- An authorized inspector the insurer accepts, often a licensed roofing contractor or home inspector. Check with your insurer or agent before scheduling.
- Does a new roof lower my Florida home insurance?
- It can. A newer roof can qualify for better wind-mitigation credits and make your home eligible with more insurers. Get a new wind mitigation inspection after the work is done.
Sources
- Florida Statutes, section 627.7011 (homeowners' policies; roof age)
- My Safe Florida Home program (Florida Department of Financial Services)
This guide is general information, not insurance advice. Florida Coverage Compare is not an insurance company or agent. Rules change; confirm details with a licensed agent or the official source. See our editorial standards.