Homeowners Insurance Cancelled Because of Your Roof? Here’s What Fresno Homeowners Should Know

Getting a cancellation notice from your insurance company can feel overwhelming — especially when the reason is your roof.

If this has happened to you, you’re not alone. More and more Fresno homeowners are facing insurance non-renewals or cancellations due to aging or damaged roofs. And with insurance companies now using tools like drones and satellite imagery to inspect properties, no issue goes unnoticed.

But don’t panic. In this guide, we’ll explain:

• Why your homeowners insurance may be cancelled due to your roof

• What steps to take immediately

• How to find new coverage — and protect your roof moving forward

❓ Can Your Insurance Be Cancelled Because of Your Roof?

Yes — absolutely. Most insurance companies have clauses that allow them to drop or non-renew policies if the roof is considered:

• Too old

• Improperly maintained

• Made with outdated or unsafe materials

• Visibly damaged or leaking

Insurers see your roof as your home’s first line of defense. If they believe your roof poses a high risk, they may:

• Include a roof exclusion (meaning they won’t cover roof-related claims)

• Raise your premium or deductible

• Cancel your policy altogether

This puts pressure on homeowners to maintain, repair, or even replace their roof to avoid losing coverage.

🏚️ Why Roof Condition Matters So Much to Insurance Companies

Your roof is the single biggest factor in preventing water damage, mold, and structural issues — all expensive to fix and costly for insurers to cover.

Insurance companies assess risk. An older or damaged roof means:

• Higher chance of leaks during rainstorms

• Greater likelihood of claims after hail or wind events

• Reduced property value and safety

They use drones, satellite scans, and even quick “drive-by” inspections to spot:

• Missing shingles

• Sagging or soft spots

• Poor drainage or moss growth

• Worn-out flashing or exposed underlayment

If your roof is over 15–20 years old — especially if it’s made from less durable materials — your risk classification may be automatically flagged.

⚠️ What Happens When Insurance is Cancelled Due to Your Roof

If your roof is the issue, your insurer will typically send a written notice stating:

• Why your policy is being cancelled or not renewed

• The effective date (usually 30–60 days)

• Any required actions (like proof of repairs or full replacement)

From there, you’ll need to move fast.

✅ What to Do if Your Insurance Is Cancelled Over Your Roof

1. Confirm the Reason for Cancellation

Contact your insurance provider directly and ask for specifics. Is the issue age? Condition? Materials? This will guide your next move.

2. Hire a Local Roofing Expert

Bring in a licensed, insured Fresno roofing contractor to inspect your roof. They can:

• Provide a written inspection report

• Identify issues

• Offer repair or replacement options

This report is critical for negotiations with your insurer or a new provider.

3. Document All Repairs

If you move forward with roof work:

• Save invoices, photos, and inspection reports

• Keep before/after images

• Ensure repairs are completed by professionals — not DIY or handymen

Insurers want to see proof of quality.

4. Communicate with Your Insurance Provider

Send all documentation to your provider. In some cases, they’ll reinstate your coverage once repairs are confirmed.

5. Find a New Insurance Provider If Needed

If your insurer won’t reinstate your policy, start shopping. Look for:

• High-risk homeowner coverage providers

• Companies that specialize in older homes or non-standard policies

• Local agents familiar with Fresno roofing regulations

Having professional documentation and a newly repaired roof gives you more negotiating power.

🧱 Common Roof Issues That Trigger Cancellation

Insurance companies flag many common problems, including:

• Worn-out roofs (especially 20+ years old)

• Missing or damaged shingles

• Sagging or ponding water

• Visible interior leaks or water damage

• Old materials (like wood shake or asbestos tile)

• Moss, mold, or clogged gutters

• Improper flashing or venting

These issues signal neglect and increase your claim risk. Regular inspections can catch them early — and avoid cancellation.

🏗️ How to Get Insurance With a “Bad” Roof

It’s not easy, but it’s possible.

1. Find Niche Insurers

Some companies specialize in homes with:

• Older roofs

• Partial repairs

• High-risk past insurance history

You may pay higher premiums, but coverage is available.

2. Submit Inspection Reports

Show your roof is stable, or in-progress for repair.

3. Compare Quotes Thoroughly

Don’t just go for the lowest price — read the exclusions. Many policies won’t cover roof damage until a full replacement is made.

🔁 What Happens If You Don't Replace the Roof?

If your coverage lapses and you fail to replace the roof:

• Your mortgage lender may force-place insurance (very expensive, limited coverage)

• You risk being uninsured during storms or accidents

• You’ll pay out of pocket for any repairs or damage

• Future insurers may view you as a red flag

It’s always better — financially and legally — to handle roof issues immediately.

🔧 Proactive Roof Maintenance = Lower Risk

To prevent cancellations in the future:

• Schedule annual inspections

• Replace damaged or missing shingles right away

• Trim trees and clean gutters

• Invest in a full replacement before your roof’s expiration date

These small steps can mean the difference between staying covered — or scrambling to find new insurance.

🎯 Final Word: Don’t Let Your Roof Cost You Your Coverage

Your roof is more than a shelter — it’s the key to maintaining affordable, reliable homeowners insurance.

If you’ve received a cancellation notice, don’t panic. Act quickly, call a trusted local roofer, and work through the process with the right documentation and repairs.

At One Sun Solutions, we provide full roofing inspections, honest quotes, and fast repairs throughout Fresno and surrounding communities. Whether you're repairing after a cancellation or preparing for solar, our roofing team is here to help.

👉 Book your free roof inspection today and protect your home from costly cancellations.