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March 30, 2025In Florida, recent legislative changes have significantly impacted roofing insurance regulations. Key aspects include:
Roof Age and Insurance Coverage
Insurers cannot refuse to issue or renew homeowners insurance policies solely based on a roof’s age if it is less than 15 years old. For roofs 15 years or older, homeowners are permitted to have an inspection conducted by an authorized inspector at their own expense. If the inspection indicates that the roof has at least five years of useful life remaining, the insurer cannot deny coverage solely due to the roof’s age.
Roof Deductibles
Insurers are authorized to offer policies with separate roof deductibles, which may not exceed the lesser of 2% of the Coverage A limit or 50% of the roof’s replacement cost. Policyholders must be given the option to decline such deductibles by signing a form. These deductibles do not apply to total losses, hurricane-related damages, damage from tree falls or other hazards that puncture the roof deck, or damages requiring repairs to less than 50% of the roof.
Prohibited Practices for Contractors
Contractors are prohibited from offering rebates, gifts, or any other incentives to homeowners in exchange for allowing a roof inspection or making an insurance claim for roof damage. Additionally, contractors may not interpret insurance policy provisions, advise insured individuals regarding coverages or duties under their property insurance policy, or adjust claims on behalf of the insured unless they hold a public adjuster license. Violations can result in fines up to $10,000 per occurrence.
Matching Repairs
Florida law requires that when a loss necessitates the repair or replacement of items, the materials used must reasonably match the quality, color, or size of those in adjoining areas. This ensures a uniform appearance after repairs.
Roof Repair Regulations
The previous mandate requiring full roof replacement if more than 25% was damaged has been repealed. Under the new regulations, only the damaged portion must be repaired or replaced, provided the existing roof was built in compliance with the 2007 Florida Building Code or later versions.
These legislative changes aim to balance the interests of homeowners, contractors, and insurers by ensuring fair practices and maintaining the integrity of roofing structures in Florida.
Florida Roof Insurance Laws: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know in 2025
At 2020 Property Inspections, we believe knowledge is power—especially when it comes to your roof and your insurance coverage. Florida has recently updated its statutes concerning roofing and homeowners insurance, and the changes can directly affect your policy, your pocketbook, and your peace of mind.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Roof Age Can’t Be the Sole Reason for Denial
Insurance companies cannot deny coverage or refuse to renew a policy just because your roof is less than 15 years old.
For roofs 15 years or older, homeowners now have the right to submit an inspection report from a licensed professional (like us). If it confirms the roof has at least 5 years of useful life remaining, insurers cannot deny coverage based solely on age.
Our Tip: Book a roof certification inspection before your renewal date. It could save you thousands.
2. New Roof Deductibles Explained
Insurers can now offer policies that include separate roof deductibles—but they come with limitations:
- Maximum deductible: 2% of Coverage A or 50% of the roof’s replacement cost, whichever is less.
- Homeowners must opt in by signing a written notice.
- These deductibles do not apply if:
- The roof is a total loss
- Damage is from a hurricane
- A tree or object punctures the roof
- Repairs affect less than 50% of the total roof area
Our Tip: Be sure you understand your deductible options before signing.
3. No More Freebies from Roof Contractors
Under Florida law, contractors are strictly prohibited from:
- Offering rebates, gift cards, or cash incentives to inspect your roof or file an insurance claim
- Advising you on insurance coverage or policy interpretation
- Acting as a claims adjuster without the proper license
Violations can result in up to $10,000 in fines—so both homeowners and contractors must stay compliant.
Our Tip: Always work with licensed professionals who follow the law.
4. Partial Repairs Are Now Permitted
In the past, if more than 25% of your roof was damaged, you had to replace the entire roof. That’s no longer the case.
As long as your current roof was installed under the 2007 Florida Building Code or later, only the damaged portion needs to be repaired.
Our Tip: Not sure if your roof qualifies? A simple inspection can confirm compliance.
5. Matching Materials Still Matter
When repairs are made, Florida law still requires reasonable matching of materials in size, color, and quality with the surrounding roof.
Our Tip: Choose contractors who don’t cut corners. Uniform repairs protect your home and your home value.
Final Thoughts from Our Team
With evolving statutes and policy language, it’s never been more important to have accurate, unbiased information. At 2020 Property Inspections, we provide professional, licensed inspections to help Central Florida homeowners and real estate professionals navigate insurance changes with confidence.
Need a roof certification or roof condition report?
Call us today or book online at 2020pi.net. Your roof is one of your home’s most valuable systems—let’s make sure it’s working for you, not against you.