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Important Update: Changes to Home Insurance Roof Coverage in Wisconsin

If you are a homeowner in Wisconsin, it is more important than ever to understand how your home insurance policy responds to roof claims.

Insurance carriers are the primary source for policy changes, and reviewing renewal notices and policy documents is critical. That said, many Wisconsin insurance companies are making similar changes that could significantly increase your out-of-pocket costs if you have a roof claim. These changes are becoming common across the state and may already apply to your policy.

What Is Changing and Why It Matters

Higher Wind and Hail Deductibles

Many insurers are increasing how much homeowners must pay before coverage applies for wind or hail damage. Instead of a traditional flat deductible, policies may now use:

  • A flat deductible, such as $5,000

  • A percentage-based deductible tied to your home’s insured value

Example:
If your home is insured for $350,000 and your wind or hail deductible is 1%, you would pay $3,500 before insurance covers the remaining damage. These deductibles apply per claim, not per year.

Roof Coverage Is Often Based on Roof Age

How much your insurance pays out for a roof claim often depends on the age of the roof.

Common trends we are seeing include:

  • Reduced coverage beginning as early as 4 to 5 years of roof age

  • Other companies are reducing coverage at 10, 15, or 20 years

  • Payments based on depreciation rather than full replacement

  • Restrictions or nonrenewals for homes with 3-tab shingle roofs unless replaced

How Roof Claims Are Commonly Paid Today

Instead of a wide table, here is a cleaner breakdown that tends to display better on websites and mobile devices:

Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

  • Pays the cost to replace the roof with new materials

  • Your deductible is subtracted

  • Typically offers the most protection

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

  • Pays a depreciated amount based on roof age and condition

  • Your deductible is subtracted

  • Older roofs can result in significantly lower claim payments

Roof Payment Schedule

  • Pays a set percentage based on roof age and roof type

  • Your deductible is subtracted

  • The older the roof, the smaller the payout

For many homeowners, these changes mean thousands of dollars more out of pocket after a storm.

Steps Wisconsin Homeowners Should Take Now

  • Review your policy carefully
    Many of these changes are already built into current policies. The notifications are usually included with renewal notices or policy updates. Be sure to review your wind and hail deductibles and roof settlement language so there are no surprises at claim time.

  • Confirm the roof age listed on your policy
    If your roof was replaced more recently than the insurer has on file, updating this information could improve how a future claim is handled.

  • Plan ahead for potential roof expenses
    Higher deductibles and reduced payouts mean homeowners may need to cover a larger share of repair or replacement costs.

  • Consider a metal roof when replacing
    Many insurance companies offer replacement cost coverage on metal roofs regardless of age, or with more relaxed guidelines, due to their durability and resistance to hail.

Not Sure What Coverage You Have?

If you are unsure how your roof is covered or how your deductible works, we are happy to review your policy with you. As a Wisconsin-based agency, we monitor trends approved and regulated by the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and help clients understand how these changes apply to their specific situation.

About the Author

Jessica Dellemann is a licensed Wisconsin insurance agent and co-owner of Insurance Service Center – De Pere, LLC. Together with her business partner, Carrie Baeten, and their dedicated team of agents and staff, they help individuals, families, and small businesses across Wisconsin find smart, practical insurance solutions that truly make sense.

With more than 30 years in the insurance industry and professional designations including CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor) and CPRM (Certified Personal Risk Manager), Jessica brings deep industry knowledge and a strong focus on client education. Outside the office, she enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.

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