Roof Maintenance and Insurance Australia: Why It Matters
When it comes to roof maintenance and insurance Australia, it’s not simply the age of your roof that determines if your claim will be accepted. What insurers really want to know is: was the damage caused by a storm or by lack of maintenance?
This difference is important. Since August 2024, insurance providers now follow the Insurance Council of Australia’s Best Practice Standard for Expert Reports, ensuring more consistent, evidence-based decisions. Independent assessments are key in determining whether claims are valid—particularly when older roofs are involved.
Will Insurance Cover an Older Roof?
In Australia, there are no automatic exclusions based solely on roof age. What matters most is the maintenance history and current condition. Policies aim to cover unexpected damage, not gradual wear and tear.
Insurers consider:
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Maintenance history: Regular inspections and prompt repairs show diligence.
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Material durability: Metal roofs can last 50–75 years, while others may not.
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Claim history: Frequent claims could raise premiums or lead to exclusions.
To strengthen your case, always keep detailed records—photos, inspection reports, and invoices. Evidence of neglect (e.g., mould, rust, cracked tiles) can impact your claim.
Common Causes of Roof Damage
Knowing what causes roof damage helps in prevention:
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Storms, hail, high winds
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Salt spray and sea winds in coastal areas
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Gradual deterioration of roofing materials
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Poor workmanship from non-qualified tradespeople
How to Maintain Your Roof and Protect Your Insurance
Regular roof care plays a vital role in roof maintenance and insurance Australia. Here’s how to protect your property and your policy:
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Book regular inspections with a licensed professional, especially after storms
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Fix minor problems early, like cracked tiles or rusted flashing
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Keep all maintenance records for future claims
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Understand your policy, including clauses on maintenance and age
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Upgrade your roof if it’s aging, to improve safety and policy outcomes
Taking these steps ensures your roof remains structurally sound and your insurance stays valid.
Filing a Claim for Roof Damage: What to Do
If your roof is damaged:
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Report it immediately to your broker or insurer
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Collect and submit evidence, such as photos and repair records
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Make safe temporary fixes to stop further damage
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Check before major repairs, as unauthorised work may not be covered
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Roof and Your Cover
The financial fallout from Cyclone Alfred and North Queensland’s floods shows just how critical proper maintenance is. Many homeowners found themselves uninsured simply due to overlooked maintenance clauses—resulting in over $1.2 billion in damage claims.
Understanding roof maintenance and insurance Australia helps ensure you’re not caught off guard. Stay proactive, keep records, and talk to your broker to clarify what’s covered under your policy.
If you’d like to know more about roof insurance in Australia CLICK HERE, or contact us today.