Think your insurance has your back? Not so fast.
At Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors, we’ve seen firsthand how roof insurance claims aren’t as simple—or as reliable—as they used to be. With drone inspections, arbitrary roof age limits, and stricter coverage policies, more Minnesota homeowners are facing denied claims, canceled policies, and letters forcing them to replace their roof or lose coverage altogether.
These shifting policies are leaving many homeowners confused about their rights and responsibilities. This Minnesota homeowner insurance guide from the Department of Commerce breaks down what coverage includes–and what it doesn’t.
And the biggest mistake homeowners make? Filing a claim without knowing whether their roof actually qualifies for one.
Why Roof Insurance Claims Are Getting Tougher
It’s not your imagination—insurance carriers are cracking down:
- If your roof is around 10 to 15 years old (or sometimes even newer), insurers may deny claims automatically or send letters requiring roof replacement.
- Drone inspections and satellite images allow them to inspect your home remotely—and cancel coverage if they don’t like what they see.
- Some homeowners are receiving “replace it or lose coverage” letters without ever filing a claim.
The Risk of Filing Claims Without Confirmed Damage
Filing an insurance claim when there’s no real storm damage can do more harm than good. Here’s what can happen:
- Your claim gets denied because no legitimate damage is found.
- Your roof comes under increased scrutiny, resulting in letters demanding repairs or replacements.
- You risk losing coverage altogether, especially if the inspection reveals unrelated wear-and-tear.
For years, homeowners would wait for a hailstorm, get a roof quote, and file a claim just to see if it would be approved. But today? That approach could backfire.
Tip from President & Owner, Addison Kaasa:
“If you’re ready to replace your roof right away, filing a claim might make sense. But if you’re hoping to put it off for a few years, be careful—your insurance company could deny the claim and still flag other issues during the inspection. That’s how people end up with canceled policies and unexpected repair demands.”
That’s why it’s more important than ever to educate homeowners on filing only when there’s real, documented damage.
What To Do Before You File a Roof Claim
Before you call your insurance company, take these smart steps:
- Schedule a professional roof inspection—a reputable contractor will assess your roof and tell you the truth.
- Know your roof’s age—age alone can impact coverage decisions.
- Document everything—your contractor should take detailed photos and reports using tools like CompanyCam.
- Focus on your own roof’s condition—every claim is evaluated individually, regardless of what happened with your neighbor’s home.
What to Expect From a Reputable Roofer During Claims
Not all roofing companies are created equal. At Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors, we believe in transparency and integrity through the claims process. Here’s what you can expect:
- Thorough documentation of your roof’s condition (photos, inspection notes, and storm history if applicable)
- Honest advice on whether filing a claim makes sense
- Help communicating with your insurance adjuster, so nothing gets lost in translation
- Clear timelines and responsibilities—no surprises, no gray areas
When to Pay Out-of-Pocket Instead
Sometimes, a small roof repair isn’t worth risking your insurance coverage.
If the damage is minor, it may be smarter to:
- Pay for a repair out of pocket
- Use available financing options to spread out the cost
- Plan for a full replacement when your budget allows
Insurance should be used for significant damage—not routine maintenance or wear-and-tear.
Trust Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors for Your Roofing Needs
Roof insurance claims are more complicated than most homeowners realize. Filing blindly could cost you your coverage—and your peace of mind.
Not sure if you should file a roof claim?
Book a free inspection with Wright at Home Roofing & Exteriors. We’ll give you honest answers and full documentation before you make a move. Proudly serving the Minneapolis metro area for 20 years!
