If you’ve recently shopped for homeowners insurance or received a renewal notice, you may have noticed that the age of your roof can significantly impact your insurance options.
But can an insurance company refuse to insure your home simply because your roof is 10, 15, or 20 years old? According to a recent clarification from the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI), the answer is no—not based on age alone.
What Texas Homeowners Should Know
In September 2026, TDI clarified its existing rule prohibiting insurance companies from declining or refusing to renew residential property insurance solely because of the age of a home or its components, including the roof.
The distinction is important: An older roof doesn’t necessarily mean a roof is in poor condition.
Insurance companies can still evaluate a roof’s physical condition, including missing or deteriorating shingles, visible damage, leaks, or maintenance concerns. However, age alone cannot be the sole reason for declining or nonrenewing coverage.
Does This Mean Your Older Roof Has Full Replacement Cost Coverage?
Not necessarily, and this is where homeowners need to pay close attention. Qualifying for insurance and understanding how your roof will be covered in the event of a claim are two very different things. Some policies provide replacement cost coverage for qualifying roof damage, while others may settle claims based on actual cash value or apply depreciation schedules.
Just because your insurance company agrees to insure your home doesn’t mean your roof will be covered for its full replacement cost.
Depending on your policy, the difference could mean thousands of dollars out of pocket following a hailstorm.
What Should You Do?
If you have an older roof, there are a few steps worth taking:
- Maintain your roof. Regular inspections and repairs can help demonstrate its condition.
- Review your coverage. Know whether your roof is insured for replacement cost or actual cash value.
- Ask questions. If your policy is being nonrenewed, understand the specific reason.
- Work with an independent agent. Different insurance companies offer different coverage options and underwriting guidelines.
The Bottom Line
The recent clarification from TDI is encouraging news for Texas homeowners, but it doesn’t eliminate the importance of understanding your insurance coverage.
Finding a company willing to insure your home is only part of the equation. Making sure you have the right protection is just as important.
At MM Insurance Services, we believe homeowners should understand what they’re purchasing—not just what they’re paying. If you’re concerned about your roof’s age or unsure how your current policy would respond to a claim, we’re happy to help you review your coverage and explore your options.
Contact MM Insurance Services today for a homeowners insurance review.
