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Connecticut Homeowner Learning Center

Please reach us at info@scosct.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

A roof's age alone doesn't automatically determine whether your insurance company will cover damage. If your roof is damaged by a covered event—such as high winds, hail, or a fallen tree—your homeowner's insurance may still pay for repairs or replacement, depending on your policy.

Some insurance companies provide replacement cost coverage on older roofs, while others may only pay the roof's actual cash value (ACV) or may require a separate deductible for wind or hail claims.

If your roof is over 15–20 years old, it's a good idea to have it inspected regularly so you understand its condition before severe weather strikes.

Need an inspection? Summit Contracting provides free roof inspections and can help document storm damage if a claim is appropriate.


Many homeowners worry that simply filing a claim will automatically raise their insurance premium. The reality is more nuanced.

Insurance companies consider several factors, including:

  • Your claims history
  • The cause of the damage
  • The number of claims in your area
  • The insurer's underwriting guidelines

A claim resulting from widespread storm damage may be viewed differently than multiple unrelated claims over several years. In some cases, premiums may not change; in others, they might.

Because every insurer is different, it's often beneficial to have your roof inspected before deciding whether filing a claim makes sense.


Roof replacement costs vary based on several factors, including:

  • Roof size
  • Roof pitch and complexity
  • Number of layers being removed
  • Type of shingles selected
  • Chimneys, skylights, and flashing
  • Ventilation upgrades
  • Decking repairs, if needed

For many Connecticut homes, a complete asphalt shingle roof replacement typically falls somewhere between $10,000 and $25,000+, though larger or more complex roofs can cost more.

The best way to receive an accurate estimate is through an on-site inspection.

Summit Contracting offers free estimates and financing options for qualified homeowners.


Recoverable depreciation is the portion of your insurance settlement that is held back until the covered repairs have been completed.

Here's how it works:

  1. Your insurance company estimates the replacement cost.
  2. They subtract depreciation and your deductible.
  3. You receive an initial payment.
  4. Once the work is completed and documentation is submitted, the insurance company may release the recoverable depreciation, subject to your policy terms.

Not every policy includes recoverable depreciation, so it's important to understand your specific coverage.


ACV stands for Actual Cash Value.

With an ACV policy, your insurance company generally pays the current value of your roof after accounting for age and wear—not the full cost of installing a new roof.

For example:

  • New roof replacement cost: $18,000
  • Roof depreciation: $8,000
  • Insurance payment (before deductible): approximately $10,000

Because ACV policies can leave homeowners responsible for a larger portion of the replacement cost, understanding your policy before a storm occurs is important.


Hail damage isn't always easy to spot from the ground.

Common signs include:

  • Missing shingle granules
  • Circular impact marks
  • Soft spots on asphalt shingles
  • Cracked shingles
  • Damaged ridge caps
  • Dented gutters
  • Dented downspouts
  • Damaged roof vents
  • Dented metal flashing
  • Window screen damage

Even small hail can shorten the life of a roofing system. After a significant storm, scheduling a professional inspection is often the safest way to identify hidden damage.


Missing shingles don't automatically result in a denied claim, but they can affect how an insurance company evaluates your roof.

If missing shingles are caused by a covered event such as high winds, your claim may be covered.

However, if the missing shingles resulted from long-term wear, neglect, or lack of maintenance, the insurer may determine the damage isn't covered.

Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help reduce the likelihood of disputes about the cause of damage.


Most asphalt shingle roofs in Connecticut last between 20 and 30 years, depending on factors such as:

  • Shingle quality
  • Installation quality
  • Ventilation
  • Weather exposure
  • Tree coverage
  • Maintenance

Connecticut's freeze-thaw cycles, snow loads, heavy rain, and occasional high winds can all shorten a roof's lifespan.

If your roof is approaching 20 years old, periodic inspections can help identify issues before they become major repairs.


The right choice depends on your roof's overall condition.

A repair may be appropriate if:

  • The damage is isolated.
  • Your roof is relatively new.
  • There are only a few missing shingles.
  • The roof structure is otherwise in good condition.

A replacement may make more sense if:

  • The roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.
  • There are multiple leaks.
  • Storm damage is widespread.
  • Repairs would be extensive or recurring.
  • Your insurance has approved a replacement due to covered damage.

A professional inspection can help determine the most cost-effective solution.


Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Consider asking:

  • Are you licensed and fully insured?
  • How long have you been in business?
  • Can you provide recent local references?
  • Do you offer free inspections?
  • Will you provide a written estimate?
  • What roofing materials do you recommend and why?
  • Do you offer workmanship warranties?
  • How do you protect landscaping and clean up after the project?
  • Do you assist with insurance claims?
  • Do you offer financing options?
  • How long will the project take?
  • Who will supervise the job site?

A reputable contractor should be willing to answer these questions clearly and provide documentation when requested.


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