The short answer
Start with paperwork: the roofer’s invoice or warranty, your home inspection report from when you bought the house, or a building permit. If none of those exist, a local roofer can estimate the age from the materials and wear.
Is this you?
- Your insurer is asking for your roof’s age and you don’t know it.
- You bought the house and the seller wasn’t sure.
- Your insurer lists a roof year that you think is wrong.
Seven ways to find your roof’s age
- Your own records. Look for the roofer’s invoice, contract, or warranty.
- Home purchase papers. Check your home inspection report and the seller’s disclosure.
- Building permits. Many cities and counties let you search permits online by address. If not, call the building department.
- Insurance records. Your policy or application may list a roof year. Check that it is correct.
- The previous owner or neighbors. Neighbors with the same builder may know when roofs were done on your street.
- Leftover materials. Extra shingle bundles in the garage or attic sometimes show a product name or date.
- A roofer’s estimate. A roofer can estimate the age from the material, wear, and style.
If your insurer has the wrong roof age
Send proof, such as a permit or invoice, and ask them in writing to correct their records. A wrong roof year can lead to a higher premium, a surcharge, or a non-renewal you don’t deserve.
Good to know
Make a “roof file” with the permit, invoice, warranty, and photos. Keep a copy in your email or on your phone so you can send it to any insurer quickly.
Want a local roofer to take a look?
A local roofer can check your roof and tell you whether a repair, a roof certification, or a replacement makes sense. Free, with no obligation.
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Common questions
Does the age of my house tell me the roof’s age?
Only if the roof was never replaced. Many roofs are replaced once or twice over a home’s life, so check for a replacement date.
What if I can’t find any records?
A roofer’s written estimate of the roof’s age and remaining life is often accepted. Ask your insurer what they will accept.
Does a partial repair change the roof’s age?
Usually not. Roof age normally means the last full replacement.