When the Insurance Letter Forced a Re-Roof (San Diego)

Maria opened the letter from her insurance company in early February. Renewal denied at 60 days unless the roof was replaced. The roof had aged into a curled, mossy patchwork that her contractor friend Jorge had been gently warning her about for two years.

Three quotes came in within a week. The middle bid won at $19,500, with the most detailed line items: tear-off and disposal of two layers of existing shingles, new synthetic underlayment, ice and water shield in valleys, drip edge, GAF Timberline HDZ architectural shingles in Charcoal, all new flashing at the chimney and skylights, and new aluminum gutters.

The roof took 3 days from start to final inspection. The crew of 5 worked sunup to sundown. Maria said the worst part was the noise. The best part was watching the new roof go on in stripes, like a beautiful piece of art.

Insurance accepted the photos and inspection report. Renewed the policy. Premium actually dropped 8 percent because the new Class A roof reduced fire-zone risk in her CAL FIRE-mapped area. Maria said it was the most stressful month of the year and somehow still ended well.