Why Insurance Companies in California Are Requiring Roof Replacement Before Renewal

alycefpeterson
Aug 18
2 min read

Updated: Sep 3

If you’ve recently received a notice from your insurance company saying you must replace your roof before your policy can be renewed, you’re not alone. Across California — including here in Lodi, Stockton, and the Central Valley — insurance carriers are becoming stricter about roof age and condition.

At Leonard Peterson, Inc., we’ve seen this firsthand. Here’s why it’s happening and what you can do about it.

The Roof Is Your Home’s First Line of Defense

Your roof protects against wind, rain, heat, and fire. When it fails, the damage can be catastrophic — water intrusion, mold growth, even structural collapse. These are some of the most expensive claims insurers face.

By requiring roof replacement before renewal, insurance companies are reducing the chance they’ll have to pay for a major loss that could have been prevented.

Age Limits Are Becoming the New Standard

Most insurance companies in California now enforce strict age limits on roofing:

Asphalt shingles: 20–25 years
Wood shake roofs: 15 years
Tile & metal roofs: longer lifespan, but still subject to inspection

Even if your roof looks “okay,” insurers often won’t risk it once it passes their cutoff age. Be sure to check with your insurer on age limits for your roof.

Climate Risks Are Driving Stricter Rules

California has faced wildfires, wind events, and extreme heat in recent years. Even though many areas of the Central Valley are not in a high fire-risk zone like some mountain areas, insurers are tightening requirements across the board.

A newer, stronger roof helps an insurer feel more comfortable about renewing your policy.

Limited Insurance Options = Stricter Rules

As some major insurers pull back from California, those that remain are being much more cautious. Requiring roof replacement is a way for them to control their risk exposure and continue offering coverage at all.

What This Means for Homeowners in Lodi, Stockton, Sacramento and the Surrounding Areas.

If your roof is 20+ years old, expect replacement to be required at renewal.
Some carriers will allow a roof inspection by a licensed contractor as proof of condition. Others demand full replacement regardless of condition.
A new roof may even reduce your premium by showing your home is lower risk.

How Leonard Peterson, Inc. Can Help

As a licensed roofing, painting, and general contractor, we’ve been protecting California homes since 1969. Our team can:

Inspect your roof and provide a condition report for your insurance company.
Recommend whether repairs, certification, or full replacement is necessary.
Complete roof replacements that meet insurance requirements and protect your home for decades.

With offices serving Southern California and the Central Valley, we’re uniquely positioned to help both local homeowners and commercial property owners navigate these new insurance demands.

Don’t Wait Until It Is Too Late

If your insurance company has warned you about your roof — or if you know your roof is nearing 20 years old — now is the time to act.

Call Leonard Peterson, Inc. today (209)816-1077 to schedule your roof estimate in Lodi, Stockton, or anywhere in the Central Valley.

Trusted Since 1969 – From San Diego to Sacramento.