What to Expect During a Roof Insurance Inspection in Orlando
If you own a home in Orlando, Kissimmee, Winter Garden, or anywhere in Central Florida, there’s a good chance your insurance company has asked about your roof—or will soon. Roof inspections have become a routine part of homeowner’s insurance in Florida, and understanding what to expect can help you prepare, avoid surprises, and potentially save money.
Here’s what Central Florida homeowners need to know about roof insurance inspections and how to make sure yours goes smoothly.
Why Insurance Companies Inspect Roofs in Florida
Florida’s insurance market has tightened significantly in recent years. After billions of dollars in hurricane claims and widespread issues with roof-related fraud, insurers are being much more careful about the roofs they cover.
For homeowners in the Orlando area, this means:
- New policies often require a roof inspection before coverage is approved
- Renewals may include roof condition requirements
- Roofs over a certain age (typically 15-20 years) face extra scrutiny
- Some insurers won’t cover homes with roofs older than 25 years
The goal isn’t to deny coverage—it’s to assess risk. A well-maintained roof is less likely to result in a claim, which is good for both you and the insurer.
What Inspectors Look For
During a roof insurance inspection, the inspector will evaluate several key factors:
Age of the Roof
The inspector will verify when the roof was installed or last replaced. In Florida, asphalt shingle roofs typically have a functional lifespan of 15-20 years, while metal and tile roofs can last much longer. Age alone doesn’t disqualify a roof, but older roofs receive closer examination.
Overall Condition
The inspector looks for visible signs of wear, damage, or deterioration:
- Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
- Damaged or missing flashing around vents, chimneys, and edges
- Signs of algae, mold, or moss growth
- Sagging areas that suggest structural issues
- Condition of gutters and drainage
- Visible repairs or patches
Remaining Useful Life
Even a roof that’s currently functional may be flagged if it appears to have only a few years of life left. Insurers want to know they’re not covering a roof that’s likely to fail during the policy period.
Code Compliance
Florida building codes have evolved significantly, especially after major hurricanes. Inspectors may note whether your roof meets current wind mitigation standards, which can affect both insurability and premium costs.
How to Prepare for Your Inspection
A little preparation can make a big difference in how your inspection goes:
Gather Documentation
If you have records of when your roof was installed or any repairs that have been made, have them ready. Permits, contractor invoices, and warranty documents can all help establish your roof’s history.
Do a Visual Check
Walk around your property and look at your roof from ground level. Note any obvious issues like missing shingles, damaged gutters, or debris accumulation. Addressing small problems before the inspection can prevent negative findings.
Clear Access
Make sure the inspector can easily access all areas around your home. Trim back any branches or vegetation that might obstruct the view of your roof.
Consider a Pre-Inspection
If you’re concerned about your roof’s condition, consider having a professional roofing contractor inspect it first. They can identify issues and give you an honest assessment of whether repairs or replacement might be needed before the insurance inspection.
What Happens After the Inspection
After the inspection, you’ll typically receive one of three outcomes:
Approval: Your roof passes inspection and your policy continues or is issued without roof-related conditions.
Conditional Approval: The insurer may require specific repairs before full coverage is granted, or they may exclude certain types of roof damage from your policy.
Denial or Non-Renewal: In some cases, the insurer may decline to cover the home or choose not to renew an existing policy due to roof condition. This is most common with very old roofs or those with significant damage.
If your roof doesn’t pass inspection, you’ll usually have options. Many homeowners choose to make repairs or replace their roof to maintain coverage, often finding that a new roof actually lowers their insurance premiums enough to offset part of the cost.
Wind Mitigation Inspections: A Different Kind of Roof Inspection
Don’t confuse a standard roof condition inspection with a wind mitigation inspection. A wind mitigation inspection specifically evaluates your roof’s ability to withstand high winds and can qualify you for significant insurance discounts.
Features that earn wind mitigation credits include:
- Hip roof shape (more wind-resistant than gable)
- Hurricane straps or clips connecting the roof to walls
- Impact-resistant shingles or materials
- Secondary water barrier
- Proper roof deck attachment
If your roof has these features and you haven’t had a wind mitigation inspection, you may be missing out on premium savings of 15-45% depending on your policy.
Brandon Roofing Serves Central Florida Homeowners
Whether you need a professional roof assessment before an insurance inspection, repairs to address specific issues, or a complete roof replacement, Brandon Roofing is here to help Central Florida homeowners navigate the process.
With over 30 years of experience serving Florida homeowners, we understand what insurance companies look for and how to ensure your roof meets their requirements. We serve Orlando, Kissimmee, Winter Garden, Clermont, and communities throughout Lake, Orange, and Osceola counties.
Central Florida Office: 11407 Jardim Orlando Ct, Clermont, FL 34711
Phone: (352) 638-7788