🏠 How Roof Type Affects Your Homeowners Insurance Premiums in 2025
Thinking about replacing your roof? Or just wondering why your homeowners insurance premiums are rising?The type of roof you have can significantly impact how much you pay for homeowners insurance.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common roof types, how they’re viewed by insurance companies, and what you can do to lower your homeowners insurance premium.
Click here to see if you can save money or have the right coverage
🔑 Why Roof Type Matters to Insurance Companies
Insurance companies assess risk—and your roof is the first line of defense against weather, fire, and leaks. A durable, fire-resistant roof may earn you lower premiums. Meanwhile, older or higher-risk materials could result in higher rates or reduced coverage.
🧱 Common Roof Types and Their Impact on Homeowners Insurance
1. Asphalt Shingles
- ✅ Pros: Affordable, easy to install, lasts 15–30 years
- ⚠️ Insurance Impact: Standard rates for newer roofs
- ❗ Watch Out: Older or worn shingles may increase your homeowners insurance cost
- 🚨 Note: Insurers are increasingly wary of shingle claims due to frequent weather-related damages.
2. Metal Roofs
- ✅ Pros: Fire-resistant, long-lasting (up to 70 years), eco-friendly
- 💸 Insurance Benefit: Often qualifies for lower insurance premiums, especially in wildfire-prone or storm-heavy areas
- 💰 Upfront Cost: Higher installation cost but long-term insurance savings
3. Tile Roofs (Clay or Concrete)
- 🔥 Pros: Excellent fire resistance, long lifespan
- 📈 Insurance Cost: Higher premiums due to expensive replacement costs
- 🏡 Ideal for hot climates but be prepared to pay more on insurance
4. Slate Roofs
- 🌟 Pros: Elegant, ultra-durable (can last 100+ years)
- 🧾 Insurance Downside: Among the most expensive roof types to insure due to high repair/replacement costs
5. Wood Shake Shingles
- 🌲 Pros: Rustic appearance, natural material
- 🔥 Insurance Risk: Highly flammable and prone to rot
- 🚫 Premium Alert: Often results in higher homeowners insurance premiums or outright denial of coverage—especially in wildfire zones
6. Flat Roofs
- 📉 Cons: Prone to drainage issues, leaks, and pooling
- 🚨 Insurance View: Considered a higher risk = higher premiums
- 🔧 May require more maintenance and inspections
7. Green Roofs
- 🌿 Pros: Eco-friendly, good for insulation
- 🧱 Drawbacks: Heavy, complex to maintain, and expensive
- 🧾 Insurance Status: Mixed—some insurers charge more or decline coverage entirely
☀️ Solar Panels and Insurance Premiums
If you’ve added solar panels to your roof, they may increase or decrease your premiums depending on:
- Whether they’re mounted vs. integrated
- If they’re insured under your main policy or need a separate rider
- If your insurer offers “green home” discounts
Always notify your insurance company and ask about solar panel coverage when installing them.
🕒 Roof Age and Condition Matter Too
- Newer roofs = lower risk = lower premiums
- Old roofs = higher risk = reduced payouts or non-renewals
Even with premium materials, roof age affects insurance rates. A 25-year-old metal roof may not provide the same discount as a newer one.
🏠 Roof Shape Affects Wind Protection
- Hip Roofs (sloped on all sides): ✅ Lower risk in windstorms and hurricanes = lower insurance premiums
- Gable Roofs (two slopes): ❌ More vulnerable to wind uplift = higher premiums in storm-prone areas
💡 Tips to Save on Homeowners Insurance Based on Roof Type
- Ask about roof-specific discounts
- Keep documentation of your roof age, materials, and installation
- Consider upgrades to fire- and weather-resistant materials
- Schedule regular roof inspections and maintenance
- Compare insurance quotes before and after a roof replacement
✅ Final Thoughts: Your Roof Could Be Raising—or Lowering—Your Insurance Rates
Choosing the right roof type is about more than aesthetics or upfront cost—it’s also about managing risk and long-term expenses. Understanding how your roof affects homeowners insurance premiums can help you make smart, cost-saving decisions for years to come.
