Old Roof? You Might Get Denied Insurance in Minnesota

It’s not just snow and ice you need to worry about on your roof in Minnesota—your roof’s age could actually kill a home deal. 😬

In 2025, we’re seeing a growing trend that every buyer, seller, and real estate agent needs to be aware of: insurance companies are cracking down on older roofs, and it’s causing some serious issues during real estate transactions.

If your roof is 15–20+ years old, you could be facing denied coverage, higher premiums, or buyers walking away. But don’t panic—we’re breaking down exactly what’s happening and how to get ahead of it.

🏚️ Why Your Roof Could Be a Dealbreaker

In the past, a worn-out roof was mostly seen as a cosmetic or maintenance issue. But now, insurance providers in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin are getting strict—and a roof past its prime could mean a denied policy altogether.

Why the sudden change?

Insurance companies are trying to reduce risk. Older roofs are more likely to leak, get damaged by storms, or require big repairs—so providers are starting to refuse coverage if the roof is over a certain age (often 15–20 years), even if it’s not leaking or damaged… yet.

Without coverage, the buyer can’t close on the home. And just like that, the deal is dead.

🔍 What Insurance Companies Are Really Looking At

When it comes to roofs, insurers are paying attention to:

✅ Age of the roof – Once you hit 15 years, it starts raising flags.
✅ Material type – Asphalt shingles are most common, but some materials age faster than others.
✅ Visible wear or damage – Missing shingles, curling, moss growth, or signs of patch jobs can cause problems.
✅ Inspection reports or disclosures – If roof issues show up in the inspection or seller disclosures, insurance agents may pause or deny coverage.

We’ve had buyers love a house, get through inspection just fine, and then find out their insurance won’t approve the policy because of the roof age. Suddenly, they’re scrambling—or worse, backing out.

🛠️ How to Keep Your Deal Alive

So, how do you avoid having a roof ruin your real estate transaction? Here are some smart moves for buyers, sellers, and agents alike:

For Sellers:

✔️ Know your roof’s age and condition – Get an inspection before listing so there are no surprises.
✔️ Disclose early and honestly – Don’t hide roof issues—they’ll come up anyway, and transparency builds trust.
✔️ Consider replacing the roof if it’s on the edge—yes, it’s an investment, but it can help you sell faster and for more.
✔️ Offer a credit to help cover replacement if you can’t do it beforehand.

For Buyers:

🔍 Ask about the roof right away – Don’t wait for inspection to find out it’s 20 years old.
🔍 Talk to your insurance provider early – Get a quote on the property before you’re too deep in.
🔍 Have a roofer inspect it if you're unsure – Sometimes the condition is better than the age makes it seem, and a roofer can provide helpful documentation.

For Agents:

🎯 Get proactive – Ask your sellers how old the roof is and factor that into pricing and marketing.
🎯 Work closely with insurance contacts – Having a go-to insurance pro can help you keep deals moving when questions pop up.
🎯 Educate your clients early – This trend isn’t going away, and preparing buyers/sellers upfront makes the process smoother for everyone.

✅ Don’t Let a Roof Kill Your Closing

A roof may be above your head—but it shouldn’t go over your head when buying or selling. 😅

This issue is becoming more common across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin, and staying ahead of it could mean the difference between a smooth closing and a deal gone cold.

Whether you’re a homeowner thinking about selling or a buyer eyeing that charming farmhouse with a 1999 roof, knowledge is your best tool. And if you need help navigating the process, we’re just a call away.

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📣 Let’s Make Your Next Move a Smooth One

📩 Got questions about buying or selling in Minnesota or Western Wisconsin? Reach out—we’re here to help you make smart, informed decisions.
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Let’s make sure your next deal stays on solid ground—and under a solid roof. 🏡✔️