Roof inspections in Highland Beach, FL

Florida bars an insurer from refusing a homeowner policy only because a roof is under 15 years old. Once a Highland Beach roof reaches 15 years, you may hire an authorized inspector at your own expense. If the report shows 5 or more years of useful life, age alone cannot be the reason for refusal or non-renewal.

The roof section of the 4-point form records the covering, roof age, remaining useful life, last permit date, any partial replacement and damage found. Citizens requires a 4-point inspection for properties more than 20 years old, and homes built around the 1983 median are past that line. For shingle roofs over 25 years old, Citizens asks for documented proof of five more years of life.

Whether a given repair is covered is a question for your own insurer or agent in Highland Beach. A roof inspector writes up the condition of the roof and leaves coverage decisions to the insurer.

• Cracking, curling, granule loss, exposed asphalt or felt, and loose or missing tabs or tiles
• Soft spots in the decking and leaks on attic undersides or ceilings
• Permit history and remaining useful life, as the insurer forms request

A buying or selling decision, a letter from your insurer about the age of your roof, or a recent storm are the usual reasons to schedule one. Palm Beach County felt tropical-storm-force winds from Hurricane Matthew in 2016, and Irma's surge reached coastal areas in 2017. Your insurer needs to receive notice of a claim no later than 1 year after the date of loss.

If the inspection leads to repairs, the 25 percent rule applies in any 12-month period. Confirm roof permit requirements with the Town of Highland Beach Building Department.