Insurance Cancellations Due to Expired Roofs

What California Homeowners Need to Know About Insurance Cancellations Due to Expired Roofs

In recent years, thousands of California homeowners have received unexpected—and often devastating—notices from their insurance providers: Your homeowners insurance policy is being canceled due to the condition or age of your roof. If you’re one of them, or worried you could be next, this blog is for you.

At Magallon’s Roofing, with over 26 years of experience serving communities from Chowchilla to Bakersfield, we’ve helped countless homeowners protect what matters most—their homes and families—by addressing roofing issues before they lead to insurance problems. Today, we’re diving deep into why insurance companies are cracking down on old roofs, what it means for homeowners, and what you can do to stay protected.

Why Insurance Companies Are Cancelling Policies Over Roof Age

In the past, as long as your roof didn’t leak or show obvious signs of damage, your insurance company likely left you alone. But with increasing claims due to extreme weather, wildfires, and rising rebuilding costs, insurance providers are becoming far stricter about the risks they’re willing to insure.

Roof condition is at the top of their list. Here’s why:

1. Older roofs pose higher risks – Insurance companies have data proving that roofs older than 20–25 years are significantly more likely to fail during storms or wildfire seasons. Even if your roof isn’t actively leaking, age alone can be a red flag.

2. Material limitations – Many insurance companies now refuse to cover certain older roofing materials, such as 3-tab 25-year shingles, which are no longer compliant with modern California regulations, including Proposition 65.

3. Proactive risk reduction – Some insurers use drones, satellite imagery, or physical inspections to assess roof condition. If your roof looks aged, curled, missing shingles, or even slightly sagging—they may opt to cancel or refuse to renew your policy.

4. Cost-saving measures – Canceling “risky” homeowners helps insurance companies reduce future payouts. If your home has a roof that’s even potentially due for replacement, they’d rather pass than pay.

How Do You Know If Your Roof Is Putting Your Policy at Risk?

Here are common signs your roof may trigger a cancellation or non-renewal notice:

• Roof is 20+ years old (or even just 15+ years for some insurers)

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles

• Moss, algae growth, or visible granule loss

• Sagging or soft spots

• You’re still using discontinued materials like 3-tab shingles

• Your neighbors are getting new roofs or insurance inspections

If your roof matches any of these, your homeowners insurance could be at risk—even if your interior shows no water damage yet.

The Insurance Letter: What It Means and What To Do

Let’s say you receive a letter from your insurance provider stating your policy will be canceled or not renewed due to the condition of your roof.

Here’s what that typically means:

• Immediate action is required: The insurer may give you 30–90 days to replace your roof. Keep in mind most reputable roofers are booked out a few weeks.

• Proof of repair is mandatory: You’ll need to provide a detailed invoice, photos, or receipt that the roof was replaced or upgraded.

• No repairs = no coverage: If the deadline passes and you haven’t resolved the issue, your policy will lapse. Without homeowners insurance, your mortgage company may step in with expensive “force-placed” insurance—or begin foreclosure proceedings.

This is where Magallon’s Roofing can step in to help.

How Magallon’s Roofing Can Help You Save Your Homeowners Insurance

We understand how stressful these insurance letters can be. We’ve helped dozens of homeowners respond quickly and affordably to avoid cancellation.

Here’s how we do it:

✅ Free Roof Estimates for Repair or Replacement

Our licensed professionals will inspect your roof at no cost, assess the issues that led to the cancellation notice, and provide a written estimates and photos—perfect for submitting to your insurance provider.

✅ Fast Turnaround for Roof Replacements

We know timing matters. Our experienced crews can complete most full roof replacements within a couple of weeks, not months, depending on the scope and materials. And since we manufacture seamless rain gutters on-site, we can complete the entire job in one project.

✅ Help Navigating Insurance Claims

If your insurer allows partial reimbursement or you’re eligible to file a roof damage claim, we’ll walk you through the documentation and process, helping you maximize your insurance benefits.

✅ Flexible Financing Options

Don’t let costs stop you from getting a new roof. We offer competitive financing plans—so you can pay over time with no upfront payment required. We also work with  energy programs to help you get low interest rates.

✅ 25-Year Workmanship Warranty Option

Every roof we install is backed by either a 10 year or a 25-year workmanship warranty—one of the longest in the industry. That means peace of mind for you and your insurer.

California’s Unique Challenges: Why Roofs Here Face Extra Scrutiny

In California, especially in regions like Fresno, Bakersfield, and the Central Valley, roofs are exposed to more than just rain. Your roof also has to withstand:

• Scorching summer temperatures

• Heavy seasonal rains

• Wildfire ash and embers

• Windstorms and falling branches

• New building code changes and energy-efficiency laws

All of these elements accelerate roof wear and tear. Insurance companies are highly aware of this, which is why many have adopted stricter policies in high-risk zip codes.

What Roofing Materials Are Insurers Looking For?

If you’re replacing your roof, you’ll want to choose a material that meets both building code and insurance requirements. Some of the most popular, compliant options include:

• Owens Corning Duration COOL Shingles – These are Title 24 compliant, highly reflective, and reduce attic heat gain, lowering your energy bill. Insurers love them for their durability.

• Architectural/Dimensional Shingles – These have better wind resistance and longer lifespans than traditional 3-tab shingles, which are being phased out across California.

• Class A Fire Rated Roofing – This is a must in many California fire zones. Magallon’s Roofing specializes in installing materials that meet strict fire safety guidelines.

• Metal and Composite Roofs – For commercial or custom homes, these may offer additional protection and longevity—great for both insurance discounts and resale value.

Need help choosing the right roof? Our experts can walk you through the options during your free consultation.

True Stories From the Central Valley

At Magallon’s Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how fast insurance cancellations can catch homeowners off guard. Here are just a few real examples (names changed for privacy):

Case #1: Maria in Fresno, CA

Maria received a letter stating her homeowners insurance would be dropped in 45 days because her roof was “nearing end of life.” She was shocked—there were no leaks! We inspected the roof and confirmed that while it looked intact, the shingles were 22 years old, brittle, and showing granule loss. We replaced her roof with Owens Corning TruDefinition COOL shingles and provided the insurer with the documentation. Her policy was reinstated—and her home is now far more energy-efficient.

Case #2: Jerry in Bakersfield, CA

Jerry’s insurance wouldn’t renew due to a “discontinued roofing material.” He had 3-tab shingles no longer approved under Proposition 65. We upgraded his entire roof and provided financing to spread out the cost. Jerry told us it was “the smoothest experience I’ve ever had with any contractor.”

What Happens If You Ignore the Insurance Letter?

Unfortunately, some homeowners assume the letter isn’t serious—or believe they’ll find another insurer. That can backfire.

If your insurance lapses:

• Your mortgage lender will be notified

• They may purchase force-placed insurance, often 2–3x the cost

• You may lose liability coverage

• If disaster strikes—fire, water, theft—you may not be covered at all

• Your home could eventually go into foreclosure

Avoid this risk. We’re here to help you solve the issue before it becomes a crisis.

How to Be Proactive and Avoid Insurance Issues Altogether

The best defense is a proactive approach. Here’s how:

1. Know your roof’s age – If it’s older than 15 years, get an inspection annually.

2. Keep your roof clean – Remove debris, moss, and leaves that can accelerate wear.

3. Address minor repairs quickly – Exposed nails or loose shingles can lead to bigger problems.

4. Schedule your FREE roof estimate with Magallon’s Roofing – Especially if your policy is up for renewal soon.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If you’ve received a cancellation notice—or want to avoid getting one in the future—don’t wait. Reach out to Magallon’s Roofing today.

We’ve helped homeowners throughout California keep their insurance, avoid unnecessary stress, and improve their home’s value and energy efficiency.

✅ What You Get With Magallon’s Roofing:

• Free roof estimates

• Licensed, bonded, and insured crews

• 10 & 25-year workmanship warranty options

• Energy-efficient roofing options

• Fast, professional roof replacements

• On-site seamless rain gutter installation

• Financing plans available

• Family-owned and operated for over 26 years

Request Your Free Estimate Today

📍 Serving Central California: From Chowchilla to Bakersfield
📞 Call: (559) 315-1272 or Contact us here.
📅 Book your FREE roof inspection before your insurance decides for you.

Protect your roof. Protect your policy. Protect your peace of mind.
Choose Magallon’s Roofing—California’s trusted roofing experts.