Is Your Roof Maintenance Up to Scratch?
How to Go About It

In Australia, it’s not simply the age of your roof that determines whether your insurance claim will be paid. What matters more is the cause of the damage—was it due to a lack of maintenance or the result of a storm?

This is where things get technical, and why insurers now rely on independent expert reports to help determine the proximate cause of roof damage.

Under the Insurance Council of Australia's Industry Best Practice Standard for the Use of Expert Reports (August 2024), insurers are expected to follow consistent, transparent protocols when assessing roof-related claims. That means both the insurer and the policyholder can expect a more structured and evidence-based approach to decisions about coverage—especially when older roofs are involved.

As well, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is helping the sector standardise and raise public awareness of policy terms concerning roof maintenance wear and tear clauses. This work is in tandem with competition law.

Roof damage became a hot issue in the wake of Cyclone Alfred in March. Thousands of homeowners were unaware of the roof maintenance clause in their policies until it was too late. As at early April, that cyclone and February’s North Queensland floods led to insurance losses of more than $1.2 billion, according to the ICA.

Does Roof Age Impact Insurance Coverage?

Home insurance aims to cover unexpected, sudden damage—not gradual deterioration.

So, if your roof is damaged in a storm or by falling debris, it will be covered, more so than if it’s leaking from wear and tear.

Insurers are more likely to accept a claim regarding a well-maintained roof—whether it’s five or 25 years old.

Insurers may ask for evidence of maintenance, such as photos, reports, or receipts.

Signs of neglect (like mould, rusted flashing, or missing tiles) could weaken your claim or lead to exclusions at renewal. However, an experienced and qualified expert must show that neglect was the main cause of the damage for the claim to be affected.

What Insurers Really Want to Know

While age is a factor, insurers also assess:

Common Causes of Roof Damage

Understanding what leads to roof damage can help in preventing issues:

• Storms, hail, and strong winds are major causes of immediate and visible damage
• Coastal homes are more likely to be affected by salt spray and wind than inland homes
• Over time, roofing materials deteriorate, making them more vulnerable to leaks and structural issues
• Poor workmanship can lead to future problems, highlighting the importance of hiring qualified professionals.

Protecting Your Home and Roof Through Good Maintenance

Keeping your roof in good condition is an important part of protecting your whole home — and your insurance cover. Insurers expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to maintain their property. If damage happens because of poor upkeep, it could affect a future claim. 

Here’s how you can stay ahead:

• Schedule regular inspections by qualified professionals, especially after major storms or weather events, to check your roof and other vulnerable areas like gutters, foundations and external walls.
• Fix minor issues early — such as replacing cracked tiles, clearing blocked gutters, or repairing damaged flashing — to avoid bigger problems and costly repairs later.
• Keep records of all maintenance and repairs. Good documentation can support you if you ever need to lodge a claim.
• Understand your policy requirements. Some policies may have conditions about roof maintenance or exclusions based on roof age or condition. Talk to us if you’re unsure — and check at renewal time what’s covered.
• Invest in upgrades where needed. Updating your roof with stronger materials or improving drainage can not only safeguard your home but may also put you in a better position for favourable insurance terms.

Taking a proactive approach to maintaining your home — from the roof down — helps ensure your cover stays valid and your property stays protected. 

Navigating Insurance Claims for Older Roofs

It’s good to know that no Australian insurance policies have automatic exclusions for roofs of a certain age. There are no depreciation clauses in Australian policies for home buildings. 

Specialist insurers may also be more flexible with older homes, especially if you’ve got a robust maintenance record.

And if your home qualifies for state or council improvement schemes, it’s worth checking whether a roof upgrade increases your chances of better insurance.

If you need to file a claim:

While an ageing roof can present insurance challenges, proactive maintenance and a clear understanding of your policy can ensure continued coverage. BICS is here to assist you in navigating these considerations, ensuring your home remains protected. Contact the team today.

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