(612) 509-9000
If a storm recently hit your home or you’ve noticed a leak in your ceiling, you might be thinking about filing a claim with your homeowner’s insurance. But before you do, you might stop and wonder: Will roof damage raise insurance rates? That’s a smart question—and one we hear a lot from homeowners in Minneapolis, MN.
The truth is filing a claim can lead to higher premiums, but it doesn’t always. Let’s walk through when your rates might go up when they might not, and what you should keep in mind before filing a claim.
How Insurance Companies Decide Your Rates
Homeowner’s insurance is there to protect you from sudden problems—like hail damage, heavy wind, or fire. But at the same time, insurance companies are keeping an eye on risk. If they think you’re more likely to file claims in the future, they may raise your rates.
Here are a few things they look at:
- The type of policy you have
- How much your coverage costs
- How old your house is
- Your claims history
- Weather trends in your area
- The cost of labor and materials in your area
Filing a claim can affect your rate, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.
When a Roof Claim Might Raise Your Insurance Rate
Now for the big question: Will roof damage raise insurance rates? Sometimes, yes. Here’s when you might see an increase.
1. If the Damage Was Preventable
Let’s say your roof was already in rough shape and hadn’t been inspected in years. If damage happens because of neglect, your insurance company might raise your rates—or even deny the claim. They expect you to take care of your home, not wait for something to break.
2. If You’ve Filed More Than One Claim
One claim might not make a big difference. But if you’ve filed several claims in the past few years, insurance companies may see you as a higher risk. That’s when your premium is more likely to go up.
3. If There Was a Major Storm in Your Area
Big storms that affect a lot of homes in Minneapolis, MN, can lead to rate hikes for everyone in the area—not just people who file claims. When insurance companies pay out a lot of claims at once, they often raise premiums in that region to recover costs.
When Your Rate Might Stay the Same
Not every claim leads to a price hike. Sometimes, your rate might not change at all, especially if:
- The damage couldn’t have been avoided (like a lightning strike or a fallen tree during a storm)
- It’s your first claim in a long time
- You’ve been a loyal customer with a clean record
Insurance companies know that accidents happen. If they see your situation as a one-time event, they may keep your premium the same.
What Minnesota Law Says About Insurance Rates
Living in Minneapolis, MN, comes with some protection thanks to local laws. In Minnesota, insurance companies can’t raise your rates just because of where you live, your ZIP code, or the age of your house. They also can’t penalize you for having been part of certain insurance programs in the past.
Also, Minnesota law gives you some control over your policy. You can often lower your coverage limits or raise your deductible to bring down your monthly cost—just make sure it still gives you enough protection.
How to Keep Your Premiums Down
If you want to avoid future increases, there are a few smart things you can do around your home:
- Schedule regular roof checkups: Catch small issues before they turn into major damage.
- Trim trees near your home: This lowers the risk of falling branches during storms.
- Upgrade your roof: Some shingles can help protect against hail or wind and may lower your rate.
- Bundle insurance: If you combine your home and auto insurance with one company, you may get a discount.
- Add safety features: Security systems and smoke detectors can also help lower your premiums.
Doing a little now can save you a lot later.
When It’s Still Worth Filing a Claim
It’s normal to worry about your insurance going up, but that shouldn’t stop you from protecting your home. Small leaks can turn into major water damage. Missing shingles can lead to mold. Waiting too long can cost more than any increase in your premium.
Before filing a claim:
- Take photos of the damage
- Have a professional inspect your roof
- Read your policy to understand what’s covered
- Talk to your insurance agent if you have questions
And when you’re ready, work with a local team that knows how to handle storm damage the right way—like Keystone Roofing and Restoration.
Protect Your Home Today
So, will roof damage raise insurance rates? Maybe—but not always. It depends on your provider, your history, and the type of damage. If you’re in Minneapolis, MN, staying prepared and acting quickly can help you keep your rates under control and your home in great shape.
Think your roof might have storm damage? Want peace of mind from a trusted local team?
Schedule your free estimate with Keystone Roofing and Restoration today. We’re here to help you protect your home—no pressure, just honest answers and expert service.
